Comforting Hearty Baked Cowboy Casserole for Family Feasts

Hearty Baked Cowboy Casserole offers comforting flavors, quick prep, and crowd-pleasing appeal, making it a perfect family meal.

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Course: Main Dishes

Cuisine: American

Keyword: Casserole, comfort food, easy recipe, family meal, Hearty Baked Cowboy Casserole, weeknight dinner

Prep Time: 15

Cook Time: 30

Resting Time: 10

Total Time: 55

Servings: servings

Calories: 400kcal

1 pound lean ground beef a lean option keeps the casserole hearty without being too greasy.
1 pound pork sausage adds a savory depth; swap for turkey sausage for a lighter twist.

1 medium yellow onion brings sweetness and depth; shallots can be used for a milder flavor.
1 medium green bell pepper adds crunch and color; substitute with red or yellow for a sweeter taste.
3 cloves garlic infuses the dish with aromatic warmth; minced garlic or garlic powder both work.

1 can baked beans the star of the show; opt for low-sugar varieties for a healthier option.
1 can kidney beans rich in protein; black beans are a great substitute.
1 can pinto beans rich in protein; black beans are a great substitute.
1 can diced tomatoes add moisture and acidity; use fresh tomatoes if preferred.
1 can condensed cream of mushroom soup creates creaminess; a homemade version works too.
1 cup beef broth enhances flavor; vegetable broth keeps it vegetarian if desired.
½ cup barbecue sauce brings sweetness and smokiness; homemade BBQ is ideal.

2 tablespoons tomato paste thickens the sauce; try using red pepper paste for a different flavor.
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce deepens the umami taste; soy sauce can stand in if needed.
1 tablespoon yellow mustard adds a zing; Dijon mustard works well for a more robust flavor.
1 teaspoon chili powder
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes optional for added heat.

2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese gives that gooey, melty top.
1 cup shredded Monterey Jack or pepper jack cheese adds creaminess with a little kick.

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9 x 13 inch baking dish.
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add ground beef and pork sausage, sauté for 6-8 minutes until browned and drain excess fat.
Add chopped onion and green bell pepper to the skillet and cook for 4-5 minutes until softened. Add minced garlic and cook for another 30-60 seconds.
Stir in chili powder, smoked paprika, cumin, oregano, salt, black pepper, and optional crushed red pepper flakes. Cook for 1 minute.
Incorporate baked beans, kidney beans, pinto beans, diced tomatoes, and corn into the skillet and mix thoroughly.
Whisk together cream of mushroom soup, beef broth, barbecue sauce, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, and mustard in a bowl until smooth, then pour into the skillet and stir well.
Simmer the mixture over medium-low heat for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally and adjusting seasonings as desired.
Pour the cowboy mixture into the prepared baking dish and sprinkle shredded cheese over the top.
For a biscuit topping, arrange pieces of biscuit dough over the cheese; for tater tots, arrange tightly in a single layer over the cheese.
Bake for 25-30 minutes with biscuits or 30-35 minutes with tater tots until the topping is golden brown.
Let the casserole rest for 10-15 minutes before serving for flavors to meld.
Top with sour cream, green onions, jalapeños, fresh herbs, or extra sauce before serving.

This casserole can be batch cooked and frozen for future meals. Mix and match ingredients based on your preferences.