Cattle Drive Casserole

Cattle Drive Casserole is a hearty dish that brings the essence of the American West right to your dining table. With layers of savory ground beef, colorful veggies, creamy goodness, and a delicious biscuit base, it’s the kind of recipe that makes weeknight dinners feel like a special occasion. Whether you’re looking to impress a crowd at a potluck or simply feed the family during a busy week, this casserole hits the mark with its satisfying flavors and comforting textures.

What Makes This Recipe Special

If you’re searching for a dish that’s quick to prepare yet packed with flavor, Cattle Drive Casserole is your answer. This meal doesn’t just fill up stomachs; it also fills hearts with warmth and nostalgia. It’s built to be a one-pan wonder, meaning less cleanup and more time enjoying your meal. Serve it on a chilly evening or during an outdoor gathering, and you’ll find that its hearty aroma draws people in like a moth to a flame.

“This casserole is now a family favorite! Everyone loves the flavors, and it’s so easy to make!”

Step-by-Step Guide to Cooking It

This recipe might sound complex, but it’s straightforward and user-friendly, making it perfect for cooks of all levels. You’ll combine savory ingredients in a layered format, ensuring every bite has a mix of tastes and textures.

What You’ll Need

• 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

Cooking Steps

1. Preheat the Oven: Start by setting your oven to 350℉.

2. Cook the Ground Beef: In a large skillet over medium-high heat, cook the ground beef, breaking it apart as it cooks. Continue until it’s no longer pink, stirring occasionally. Drain any excess fat.

3. Prepare the Biscuit Dough: While your meat is cooking, mix the biscuit mix and water in a bowl. Use your hands for an even blend. Spray your casserole dish with cooking spray and press the dough into it, spreading it to the edges. Bake for 5-8 minutes, or until the dough is set and lightly golden.

4. Cook the Vegetables: With the beef cooked, add the onion and red bell pepper. Stir and sauté for about 4 minutes, then mix in the taco seasoning. Remove from heat once combined.

5. Assemble the Layers: Spread the beef mixture evenly over the biscuit crust already baked.

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

7. Add Salsa and Cheese: Dot spoonfuls of salsa over the sour cream layer, then sprinkle the remaining cheese on top.

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

Best Way to Serve

Cattle Drive Casserole is delicious on its own, but it shines even brighter when paired with complementary sides. Consider serving it alongside a simple green salad for freshness or some seasoned rice for an extra heartiness. A dollop of sour cream or guacamole can also add creaminess that balances the dish beautifully.

Storage Tips

To keep your Cattle Drive Casserole fresh:

• Refrigerate: Allow it to cool completely before covering it and placing it in the fridge. Enjoy it within 3-4 days for optimal freshness.
• Freezing: You can freeze the casserole before it’s baked. Just cover it securely and keep it in the freezer for up to 3 months. When ready, bake from frozen for an extended period or thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before baking.
• Reheating: Warm individual portions in the microwave or reheat in the oven until heated through.

Pro Chef Tips

• Lean Meat: Using lean ground beef cuts down on grease. For a healthier twist, consider ground turkey or chicken.
• Customize Spice Levels: Adjust the taco seasoning for a milder or spicier casserole. Adding diced jalapeños can kick up the heat!
• Use Fresh Veggies: Fresh vegetables not only taste better but also add more nutrients. Feel free to include corn or zucchini for an extra crunch.

Creative Twists

Want to mix things up? Here are a few variations you could try:

• Vegetarian Version: Substitute the ground beef with lentils or chickpeas for a fully plant-based meal.
• Cheese Lover’s Delight: Incorporate different cheese varieties like pepper jack for a zesty kick.
• Mexican Fiesta: Top your casserole with sliced avocados and fresh cilantro to enhance those south-of-the-border flavors.

Your Questions Answered

1. Can I prepare Cattle Drive Casserole ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can assemble it the night before, cover it tightly, and bake it the next day.

2. How long does it take to cook this casserole?

The overall cooking time is about 1 hour, including preparation and baking.

3. What can I substitute for the sour cream?

Greek yogurt is an excellent alternative providing a similar texture with a tangy flavor.

This Cattle Drive Casserole is not just any recipe; it’s a family heirloom, a quick fix for busy nights, and a dish sure to gather everyone around the table. Happy cooking!

Cattle Drive Casserole

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• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: 6 servings 1x
• Diet: None

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Description

A hearty dish featuring layers of savory ground beef, colorful veggies, creamy goodness, and a biscuit base, perfect for weeknight dinners or potlucks.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 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

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Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350℉.
2. In a large skillet over medium-high heat, cook the ground beef until no longer pink, then drain any excess fat.
3. Mix the biscuit mix and water in a bowl, then press the dough into a sprayed casserole dish. Bake for 5-8 minutes or until set and lightly golden.
4. Add onion and red bell pepper to the cooked beef, sauté for 4 minutes, then mix in taco seasoning.
5. Spread the beef mixture evenly over the baked biscuit crust.
6. In a bowl, blend sour cream, mayonnaise, drained green chiles, ¾ cup of shredded cheese, and garlic powder until smooth, then layer over the beef.
7. Dot salsa over the sour cream layer and sprinkle remaining cheese on top.
8. Bake uncovered for 30 minutes or until hot and bubbly.

Notes

For a healthier option, consider using ground turkey or chicken. Customize spice levels to suit your taste.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Casserole
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 400
• Sugar: 6g
• Sodium: 500mg
• Fat: 20g
• Saturated Fat: 8g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 30g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 25g
• Cholesterol: 75mg

Keywords: casserole, hearty meals, ground beef, comfort food, easy recipes