Giddy up to your kitchen because we’re about to embark on a culinary adventure worthy of the Old West with this Cattle Drive Casserole recipe. Imagine the hearty flavors of seasoned beef, robust vegetables, and a creamy saucepan all bubbling together in perfect harmony. This dish, steeped in cowboy heritage, is not just about rustic flavors; it’s a complete meal that offers comfort and satisfaction in every bite. Ideal for family dinners or a gathering of friends, this casserole is bound to make its way into your regular meal planning.
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 bell pepper, diced
- 1 can (15 ounces) kidney beans, drained
- 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes
- 1 cup frozen corn
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 packet cornbread mix
- 1 egg
- 2/3 cup milk
Equipments
- Large skillet
- Mixing bowl
- Ovenproof casserole dish
- Knife and cutting board
- Spoon or spatula
How to Make Cattle Drive Casserole Recipe – Step By Step
Step 1: Brown the Beef
Begin by heating a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook until it’s browned all over. This should take about 6-7 minutes. Use your spatula to break up the beef as it cooks, ensuring even browning. If necessary, drain any excess fat from the pan to avoid a greasy casserole.
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
Reduce the heat to medium and add the chopped onion, minced garlic, and diced bell pepper to the skillet. Sauté them until the onions are soft and translucent, and the garlic is fragrant—roughly about 4-5 minutes. Stir frequently to prevent burning.
Step 3: Combine Ingredients
Stir in the drained kidney beans, diced tomatoes, and frozen corn. Season the mixture with chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. If you prefer more heat, consider adding a dash of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes. Allow everything to simmer together for another 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.
Step 4: Add Cheese
Turn off the heat and fold in 1.5 cups of shredded cheddar cheese into the beef and vegetable mixture. The remaining half cup will be used for topping. Make sure the cheese is evenly distributed to give a gooey texture throughout the casserole.
Step 5: Prepare Cornbread Mix
In a mixing bowl, prepare the cornbread batter according to the package instructions—usually by combining the cornbread mix with an egg and milk. Mix well until you have a smooth batter. This will form the golden crust of your casserole.
Step 6: Assemble the Casserole
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Transfer the beef mixture into an ovenproof casserole dish. Sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese on top, then gently spread the cornbread batter over the cheese layer. Aim for an even layer, but don’t worry if it doesn’t fully cover the surface.
Step 7: Bake to Perfection
Place your casserole in the preheated oven and bake for approximately 20-25 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the cornbread topping is golden brown, and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
How to Serve Cattle Drive Casserole Recipe
Serve up generous portions of this Cattle Drive Casserole hot from the oven, paired with a fresh green salad or roasted vegetables. A dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of chopped green onions can also elevate the flavors nicely. It’s a meal that promises a soulful experience, channeling the heartiness of cowboy cuisine right at your table.
Recipe Success Tips & Suggestions
To guarantee success with this casserole, ensure the beef is well-browned and any excess fat is drained to prevent greasiness. Customize the heat level to your liking by adjusting the spices. Consider using a cast-iron skillet if you have one, as it distributes heat evenly and can go from stovetop to oven seamlessly. For those who love a bit of freshness, add some diced jalapeños to the mix for an extra kick.
Pumped Up Protein Cattle Drive Casserole
Looking to add more protein to this comforting dish? Consider swapping out the ground beef for ground turkey or chicken. Add extra beans like black beans for a more diversified taste and nutritional profile. You could even mix in some Greek yogurt into the cheese to boost protein content while making the casserole even more creamy.
Low-Carb Cattle Drive Casserole Delight
If you’re seeking a guilt-free indulgence, transform your Cattle Drive Casserole into a low-carb version by replacing the cornbread topping with a cauliflower mash. Simply steam and mash cauliflower, mix with a little butter and cheese, and spread it across the top before baking. This version lowers the carb content without sacrificing the wholesome flavors you love.
Storage Instructions
Any leftover Cattle Drive Casserole can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze portions in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months. To reheat, bake in a 375°F (190°C) oven until heated through or microwave at intervals until warm.
FAQs
- Can I use a different type of meat? Absolutely, ground turkey or chicken are great alternatives to beef.
- What if I don’t have kidney beans? You can substitute with pinto beans or black beans.
- Is it necessary to use cornbread mix? Not at all! You can make your own cornbread from scratch if preferred.
- Can this recipe be doubled? Yes, simply adjust the baking time if using a larger dish to ensure even cooking.
- Can I add other vegetables? Absolutely. Diced zucchini or mushrooms would be delicious additions.
Why You’ll Love This Hearty Cattle Drive Casserole
This Cattle Drive Casserole brings together the rustic essence of cowboy cooking and modern conveniences. Its flavors are as bold as they are comforting, making it a perfect family meal option. Share this recipe with your loved ones, comment on your experiences, and let us know how your casserole journey went!
Cattle Drive Casserole Recipe
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- ground beef
- medium onion
- garlic
- bell pepper
- kidney beans
- diced tomatoes
- frozen corn
- shredded cheddar cheese
- chili powder
- cumin
- salt and pepper
- cornbread mix
- egg
- milk