Name: Easy Cowboy Casserole
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 pound ground beef; 1 medium onion, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup frozen corn; 1 can (10.5 ounces) cream of mushroom soup; 1/2 cup sour cream; 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided; 3 cups frozen diced potatoes or hash browns; 1 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; 1/2 teaspoon paprika or chili powder (optional)

Hearty, satisfying, and downright comforting—this Easy Cowboy Casserole is the kind of dish that feels like a warm hug. Loaded with savory ground beef, creamy cheese, tender potatoes, and crunchy corn, it brings that perfect balance of home-style flavors and rich textures. It’s exactly what your weeknight dinner rotation has been missing.

Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or looking to stock your fridge with meal-prep goodness, this cowboy casserole ticks every box. It’s quick to throw together, easily customizable, and can be made ahead of time. Plus, it’s a crowd-pleaser that leaves zero leftovers.

What Kind of Potatoes Should I Use?

This recipe works well with frozen diced potatoes or hash browns for convenience, but if you have fresh potatoes on hand, go for Yukon gold or russet. They hold up nicely and soak in all the creamy, cheesy goodness during baking.

Ingredients for the Easy Cowboy Casserole

Ground Beef – The heart of this dish. Choose 85/15 for flavor and just enough fat to keep things juicy.

Onion – A must for a savory base, diced onions add depth and aroma.

Garlic – Minced garlic boosts the flavor with a rich, aromatic punch.

Frozen Corn – Sweet, crisp, and quick—adds color and contrast.

Cream of Mushroom Soup – Brings creamy cohesion to every bite.

Sour Cream – Adds a tangy richness that cuts through the savory elements.

Shredded Cheddar Cheese – Melty, sharp, and essential. Use extra for topping!

Frozen Diced Potatoes or Hash Browns – The foundation that makes it filling and rustic.

Salt & Pepper – Always to taste, seasoning is key.

Paprika or Chili Powder (optional) – For a touch of warmth and smoky spice.

How To Make the Easy Cowboy Casserole

Step 1: Brown the Beef

In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned and fully cooked. Drain excess fat if needed.

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics

Add diced onions and minced garlic to the skillet with the beef. Cook for 3-4 minutes until onions are soft and translucent.

Step 3: Mix the Filling

In a large bowl, combine the cooked beef mixture, frozen corn, cream of mushroom soup, sour cream, half of the shredded cheddar, salt, pepper, and paprika or chili powder if using. Stir until well blended.

Step 4: Layer the Casserole

Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. Add half the frozen diced potatoes or hash browns to the bottom. Spread the beef mixture evenly on top, then layer with the remaining potatoes. Sprinkle the remaining cheddar over everything.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Cover the dish with foil and bake for 30 minutes. Remove foil and bake another 10-15 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbling.

Step 6: Let It Set

Allow the casserole to rest for 5-10 minutes before serving to help everything hold together nicely.

How to Serve and Store This Easy Cowboy Casserole

This casserole shines as a standalone meal, but a crisp side salad or steamed green beans make it feel complete. Want to bulk it up even more? Add a slice of crusty garlic bread for that comfort food touch.

To store leftovers, let the casserole cool completely, then transfer to an airtight container. It stays fresh in the fridge for up to 4 days or can be frozen for up to 2 months. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until hot or microwave individual portions.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?

Yes, ground turkey is a great leaner option and still works wonderfully with all the other flavors.

Is there a substitute for cream of mushroom soup?

You can use cream of chicken or cream of celery, or make your own from scratch if you prefer homemade versions.

Can I add beans to this casserole?

Absolutely! Black beans or pinto beans add a Tex-Mex flair and extra protein.

Can I make it in advance?

Yes, you can assemble the casserole up to a day ahead. Store it in the fridge, then bake when you’re ready to eat.

What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?

For best results, reheat in the oven so the cheese stays melty and delicious. The microwave works in a pinch for individual servings.

Can I make it spicy?

Definitely! Add diced jalapeños, hot sauce, or extra chili powder to suit your spice preference.

Want More Casserole Ideas?

If this Easy Cowboy Casserole won your heart, you might fall in love with these other comforting casseroles too:

Chicken Crescent Roll Casserole for a creamy and flaky twist.
Million Dollar Spaghetti Casserole if you’re craving baked pasta with rich layers.
Copycat Cracker Barrel Hashbrown Casserole for a side dish that steals the spotlight.
Mexican White Trash Casserole when you want bold Tex-Mex flavors with minimal prep.
Creamy Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese Delight for the ultimate comfort combo of cheese and spice.

For more weeknight winners and creative casseroles, check out my Pinterest where I post daily favorites: Life with Jam on Pinterest

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dinner board so it’s ready whenever you need a cozy meal.

And don’t forget to leave a comment below if you gave it your own twist! Did you try a spicy version? Toss in some beans? Or maybe sneak in extra cheese?

I love hearing how you make these recipes your own. Questions, substitutions, or side ideas? Drop them below so we can all swap notes!

Easy Cowboy Casserole

Author: Jam Scott
Total Time: 60 minutes
Yield: 6 servings

Print Recipe

Description

This Easy Cowboy Casserole is the ultimate comfort food—hearty ground beef, melty cheese, crisp corn, and golden potatoes all baked into one creamy, savory dish. It’s easy to prep, freezer-friendly, and guaranteed to please any hungry crowd.