Cattle Drive Casserole

There’s something truly special about a hearty casserole that brings comfort and joy to any dinner table. This delightful dish originates from the tradition of cattle drives, where meals needed to be nourishing and easy to prepare. You can whip it up for family gatherings, potlucks, or even on a cozy weekend when you’re craving something warm and satisfying. With its layers of savory ground beef, vegetables, and a touch of creaminess, it’s no wonder this casserole quickly becomes a favorite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

What makes this dish a must-try? Not only is it easy to prepare, but it also offers incredible comfort in every bite. It’s budget-friendly, making it perfect for families, and is adored by kids and adults alike for its rich flavors. Plus, the layers of ingredients make it visually appealing, ensuring that even picky eaters will be tempted to dig in.

“This casserole is my go-to meal for busy nights! My kids always ask for seconds.” – Happy Home Cook

How to Make Cattle Drive Casserole

Creating this mouthwatering casserole is a breeze. You’ll start by cooking your protein and preparing a simple biscuit base. Then, layer it all together with a delicious creamy mixture topped with cheese and salsa. It’s a straightforward process that yields a meal perfect for any occasion. Here’s what you’ll need:

Ingredients

Equipment

• Large skillet
• 2 Medium mixing bowls
• 9 x 13" casserole dish

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 Cheddar Cheese, Fiesta Blend, shredded, divided
• 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder
• ½ cup Salsa, mild

Substitution Tips: You can swap the ground beef for turkey or chicken for a lighter option. If you prefer a milder dish, use less taco seasoning or opt for a low-sodium version.

Directions

1. Preheat the Oven: First, set your oven to 350℉ to preheat while you prepare the dish.

2. Cook the Ground Beef: In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add the ground beef. Use a spoon to break it apart as it cooks. Stir occasionally until the meat is browned and no longer pink. Drain any excess fat.

3. Prepare the Biscuit Dough: In one mixing bowl, combine the biscuit mix and water until well blended. For best results, use your hands to blend it thoroughly. Spray a 9 x 13" casserole dish with cooking spray and press the biscuit dough evenly across the bottom. Bake in the preheated oven for 5-8 minutes until the dough is set and lightly golden. Leave the oven on when you finish.

4. Cook the Vegetables: Add the chopped onion and red bell pepper to the skillet with the cooked ground beef. Stir and cook for about 4 minutes until softened. Mix in the taco seasoning, then remove the skillet from heat.

5. Assemble the Layers: Evenly spread the cooked ground beef mixture over the baked biscuit layer in your casserole dish.

6. Prepare the Sour Cream Layer: In a separate bowl, mix together the sour cream, mayonnaise, drained green chiles, ¾ cup of shredded cheese, and garlic powder until smooth. Carefully spread this mixture over the ground beef layer.

7. Add Salsa and Cheese: Drop spoonfuls of salsa over the sour cream layer; no need to spread it out. Finish by sprinkling the remaining cheese evenly on top.

8. Bake: Return the casserole to the oven, uncovered, and bake for 30 minutes or until it’s hot and bubbly.

Serving Suggestions

This casserole is fantastic on its own, but elevating your meal is easy with a few complementary sides. Consider serving it with a fresh garden salad, some crunchy tortilla chips, or a dollop of guacamole or sour cream on top. For an extra kick, cilantro or jalapeño slices can add both flavor and a pleasing presentation.

Storage & Reheating

To keep your leftovers fresh, allow the casserole to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container in the fridge. It will last up to 3-4 days. For longer storage, you can freeze it for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, reheat in the oven at 350℉ until warmed through or in the microwave for quick meals on busy nights.

Pro Tips

• For a quicker cooking time, prepare the beef mixture in advance and store it in the fridge until you’re ready to assemble the casserole.
• If you like more heat, consider using spicy salsa or adding diced jalapeños to the beef mixture.
• Mix in some black beans or corn for an extra dose of veggies and nutrients.

Variations

Give this casserole a personal spin by incorporating different proteins such as shredded chicken or a meat alternative for a vegetarian version. You can also experiment with various cheese blends; pepper jack adds a lovely spice, while mozzarella lends a creamy texture. For an indulgent twist, top it with crushed tortilla chips right before serving for extra crunch.

FAQs

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! Prepare the casserole up until the baking step, cover it with plastic wrap, and store it in the fridge for up to a day. Bake it just before serving.

What can I serve with this casserole?
This dish pairs wonderfully with a crisp salad, refried beans, or even some warm, crusty bread to soak up the flavors.

Is this casserole kid-friendly?
Definitely! The combination of flavors, especially with the cheese and sour cream, tends to be a hit with kids. You can adjust the spice levels to suit their tastes as well.

• Easy casserole recipes
• Family-friendly dinner options