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Easy Cheesy Cowboy Casserole

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A quick and easy cheesy casserole packed with ground beef, beans, corn, and a blend of spices, perfect for family dinners and crowd-pleasing meals.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 lb (450 g) ground beef (80/20 preferred)
  • 1 medium yellow onion, diced
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 cup (150 g) canned corn, drained (or frozen corn)
  • 1 cup (170 g) black beans, drained and rinsed (optional)
  • 1 can (10 oz / 280 g) diced tomatoes with green chilies
  • 2 cups (200 g) shredded cheddar cheese (sharp or mild)
  • 1 cup (100 g) shredded Colby Jack cheese
  • 1 tbsp chili powder
  • 1 tsp cumin
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 2 cups (400 g) cooked rice or cooked pasta (white rice, brown rice, or elbow macaroni)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the diced onion and sauté for about 3 minutes until softened and translucent.
  3. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds, being careful not to burn it.
  4. Add the ground beef to the skillet. Break it apart and cook until browned and no longer pink, about 6-8 minutes. Drain excess fat if desired.
  5. Stir in chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Cook for 1-2 minutes to bloom the spices’ flavors.
  6. Transfer the beef mixture to a large mixing bowl. Add the drained corn, black beans (if using), diced tomatoes with green chilies, cooked rice or pasta, and half of the shredded cheddar and Colby Jack cheese.
  7. Gently fold everything together until combined.
  8. Pour the mixture into a prepared 9×13-inch baking dish and spread evenly.
  9. Sprinkle the remaining shredded cheese evenly over the top.
  10. Bake uncovered for 20-25 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and starting to brown on the edges.
  11. Remove from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes.
  12. Scoop into bowls or plates and enjoy. Optional: add a dollop of sour cream or chopped green onions for garnish.

Notes

Use freshly shredded cheese for better melt and gooey texture. Drain excess fat from beef to avoid greasiness. If casserole looks dry before baking, add a splash of beef broth or salsa. For a crispier top, broil for last 2-3 minutes watching closely. Can be made ahead and refrigerated up to 24 hours before baking. Freezes well for up to 2 months.

Nutrition

Keywords: cowboy casserole, cheesy casserole, ground beef casserole, easy family dinner, weeknight meal, comfort food, cheesy beef casserole

Find it online: https://cooltastes.com/easy-cheesy-cowboy-casserole-recipe-perfect-for-family-dinner-tonight/