Cattle Drive Casserole is a hearty dish that strikes the perfect balance between comfort and flavor. It’s the kind of recipe that can turn a simple dinner into a delightful gathering around the table. Whether you’re hosting a family dinner or just looking for a satisfying meal on a weeknight, this casserole is sure to impress. The combination of ground beef, fresh vegetables, creamy layers, and cheesy goodness make it a favorite for those who love bold flavors and a bit of warmth in their meals.
What Makes This Recipe Special
You’ll love this dish for many reasons. First, it’s incredibly budget-friendly, allowing you to feed a crowd without breaking the bank. Secondly, it’s packed with flavor and textures that kids and adults alike will appreciate, making it a go-to for family dinners. Plus, it’s a one-dish meal, which means less cleanup and more time spent enjoying the company of your loved ones.
“This casserole quickly became a staple in our household! It’s comforting, easy to make, and my kids can’t get enough of it.” – Happy Home Cook
Preparing Cattle Drive Casserole
Making this Cattle Drive Casserole is an enjoyable and straightforward process. You’ll start with browning some lean ground beef, then move through layering the beef with veggies, creaminess, and of course, cheese. The entire process takes less than an hour, making it ideal for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings.
Gather These Items
Before diving into the cooking process, let’s discuss what you’ll need. This casserole utilizes a variety of ingredients that come together to create a mouthwatering dish. Here’s your shopping list:
Equipment:
- Large skillet
- 2 Medium mixing bowls
- 9 x 13” casserole dish
Key Ingredients:
- 1.5 pounds lean ground beef
- 1 red bell pepper, seeded and chopped
- 1 yellow onion, chopped
- 1 ounce taco seasoning mix
- 2 ½ cups biscuit mix (like Bisquick)
- 1 cup water
- Cooking spray (like Pam)
- ½ cup sour cream
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- 4 ounces diced green chiles, drained
- 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese (Fiesta blend)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ cup mild salsa
Step-by-Step Instructions for the Best Cattle Drive Casserole
- Preheat the oven to 350°F.
- Cook the ground beef: In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add the ground beef. Break it apart with a spoon, cooking until no longer pink. Drain any excess fat. You can prepare the biscuit dough while the beef cooks.
- Prepare the biscuit dough: In one mixing bowl, combine the biscuit mix and water. Mix well, preferably with your hands for a thorough blend. Spray the 9 x 13” casserole dish with cooking spray. Press the dough evenly into the dish, spreading it all the way to the edges. Bake for 5-8 minutes or until set and lightly golden. Remove from the oven and set aside.
- Cook the vegetables: Add the chopped onions and red bell pepper to the ground beef in the skillet. Stir and cook for about 4 minutes. Mix in the taco seasoning and remove from heat.
- Assemble the layers: Spread the cooked beef mixture evenly over the biscuit layer in your casserole dish.
- Prepare the sour cream layer: In a second bowl, mix sour cream, mayonnaise, drained chiles, ¾ cup of shredded cheese, and garlic powder until smooth. Carefully spread this mixture over the ground beef layer.
- Add salsa and cheese: Top this layer with small spoonfuls of salsa (no need to spread it). Finish by sprinkling the remaining shredded cheese evenly on top.
- Bake: Return the casserole to the oven uncovered and bake for 30 minutes or until the dish is hot and bubbly.
Serving Suggestions
This Cattle Drive Casserole is perfect served straight from the oven, but you can get creative with your presentation. Consider garnishing each portion with freshly chopped cilantro, slices of avocado, or dollops of sour cream. Pair it with a fresh side salad or tortilla chips for a complete meal.
How to Store & Reheat
To keep your Cattle Drive Casserole fresh, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can also freeze individual portions for up to 2 months. When reheating, microwave or bake until heated through, ensuring that you don’t overcook it, which can dry it out. Always remember to handle leftovers safely, keeping them refrigerated within two hours of serving.
Tips for Success
For the best results, consider these helpful cooking tips:
- Use lean ground beef to avoid excess grease.
- Feel free to experiment with different vegetables like corn or zucchini for a unique twist.
- If you like extra spice, add some jalapeños to the beef mixture.
- Allow the casserole to rest for a few minutes after baking before cutting into it; this helps it set properly.
Creative Twists to Try
Looking to shake things up? Here are a few variations you might love:
- Swap the ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option.
- Make it vegetarian by substituting the meat with a variety of beans and roasted vegetables.
- Use different types of cheese, such as pepper jack for a spicy kick, or a blend of Mexican cheeses for a rich flavor profile.
Your Questions Answered
What’s the prep time for this recipe?
Prep time is around 15 minutes, and total cooking takes about 30 minutes, making it a quick meal solution.
Can I substitute the biscuit mix?
Yes! You can make homemade biscuit dough or use a different brand if you prefer.
Is this casserole suitable for freezing?
Absolutely! Just ensure it’s cooled completely before freezing in an airtight container to maintain freshness.
Now you’re all set to create a Cattle Drive Casserole that will have everyone coming back for seconds! Enjoy the process and the satisfying flavors!
Print
Cattle Drive Casserole
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Diet: None
Description
A hearty casserole featuring ground beef, fresh vegetables, and layers of cheese and creamed goodness, perfect for family gatherings.
Ingredients
- 1.5 pounds lean ground beef
- 1 red bell pepper, seeded and chopped
- 1 yellow onion, chopped
- 1 ounce taco seasoning mix
- 2 ½ cups biscuit mix (like Bisquick)
- 1 cup water
- Cooking spray (like Pam)
- ½ cup sour cream
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- 4 ounces diced green chiles, drained
- 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese (Fiesta blend)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ cup mild salsa
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F.
- Cook the ground beef: In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add the ground beef. Break it apart with a spoon, cooking until no longer pink. Drain any excess fat.
- Prepare the biscuit dough: In one mixing bowl, combine the biscuit mix and water. Mix well, preferably with your hands for a thorough blend. Spray the 9 x 13” casserole dish with cooking spray. Press the dough evenly into the dish, spreading it all the way to the edges. Bake for 5-8 minutes or until set and lightly golden.
- Add the chopped onions and red bell pepper to the ground beef in the skillet. Stir and cook for about 4 minutes. Mix in the taco seasoning and remove from heat.
- Spread the cooked beef mixture evenly over the biscuit layer in your casserole dish.
- In a second bowl, mix sour cream, mayonnaise, drained chiles, ¾ cup of shredded cheese, and garlic powder until smooth. Carefully spread this mixture over the ground beef layer.
- Top this layer with small spoonfuls of salsa. Finish by sprinkling the remaining shredded cheese evenly on top.
- Bake uncovered for 30 minutes or until the dish is hot and bubbly.
Notes
Allow the casserole to rest for a few minutes after baking before cutting into it. It helps to set properly.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 1g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 80mg