CATTLE DRIVE CASSEROLE
Cattle Drive Casserole is a hearty and flavorful dish that brings together the bold flavors of ground beef, taco seasoning, fire-roasted tomatoes, and cheddar cheese. This comforting casserole is perfect for feeding a crowd or for a cozy family dinner.
Reason to Try Cattle Drive Casserole
Cattle Drive Casserole is a versatile and satisfying meal that combines classic Tex-Mex flavors with the convenience of a casserole. It’s a great dish for busy weeknights when you need something quick and delicious to feed your family. Plus, it’s sure to be a hit with kids and adults alike!
Ingredients Summary
- Ground beef
- Fire-roasted diced tomatoes with green chiles
- Diced green chiles
- Taco seasoning
- Biscuit mix
- Sharp cheddar cheese
- Red bell pepper
- Yellow onion
- Water
- Sour cream
- Mayonnaise
- Garlic powder
- Kosher salt and freshly ground pepper
Serving Suggestions
Cattle Drive Casserole can be served hot straight from the oven. It pairs well with a side salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal. You can also garnish it with fresh cilantro, sliced green onions, or diced avocado for extra flavor.
Cattle Drive Casserole Storage Info
Leftover Cattle Drive Casserole can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place individual portions in the microwave or oven until warmed through.
Techniques or Tips
- Be sure to drain off any excess grease after browning the ground beef to prevent the casserole from being too greasy.
- You can customize this casserole by adding your favorite toppings such as sliced black olives, jalapenos, or diced bell peppers.
- For a lighter version, you can use lean ground turkey or chicken in place of the ground beef.
Variation
If you prefer a spicier casserole, you can use hot taco seasoning and extra diced jalapenos. You can also add a layer of crushed tortilla chips on top for added crunch.
FAQs about Cattle Drive Casserole
Q: Can I make this casserole ahead of time? A: Yes, you can assemble the casserole ahead of time and refrigerate it until you’re ready to bake. Just be sure to add a few extra minutes to the baking time if the casserole is cold from the fridge.
Q: Can I freeze Cattle Drive Casserole? A: Yes, you can freeze this casserole for up to 3 months. Be sure to wrap it tightly in foil or plastic wrap before freezing. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and then bake in the oven until heated through.
Q: Can I use different types of cheese in this casserole? A: Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different cheeses such as Monterey Jack, pepper jack, or Colby for a unique flavor twist.
Cattle Drive Casserole
Equipment
- Large pan or skillet
- Mixing bowls
- 9x13-inch baking dish
Ingredients
- - 1 1/2 pounds ground beef
- - 1 can 10 oz. fire-roasted diced tomatoes with green chiles
- - 1 can 4 oz. diced green chiles
- - 1 packet 1.25 oz. taco seasoning
- - 2 1/2 cups biscuit mix
- - 1 3/4 cups sharp cheddar cheese shredded, divided
- - 1 red bell pepper diced
- - 1/2 yellow onion diced
- - 1 cup water
- - 1/2 cup sour cream
- - 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- - 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- - Kosher salt and freshly ground pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F and lightly grease a 9x13-inch pan with non-stick spray.
- In a large pan or skillet over medium-high heat, cook ground beef, onion, and red bell pepper until meat is browned and veggies are softened. Drain off grease and set aside.
- Stir in taco seasoning packet, salt, and pepper to taste.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together sour cream, mayonnaise, 1 cup cheddar cheese, green chiles, and garlic powder.
- In a separate bowl, combine biscuit mix with 1 cup water (adding a little more water as needed) until a soft dough forms.
- Press dough into the bottom of greased baking dish, then bake for 5-7 minutes, or until lightly golden.
- Remove baking dish from oven and spread beef mixture over biscuit layer, then top with diced tomatoes.
- Spread sour cream mixture over tomatoes, then cover with remaining cheddar cheese.
- Return baking dish to oven and cook for 30 minutes, or until warmed through.
- Remove from oven, serve, and enjoy.
Notes
- Ensure biscuit dough is evenly spread in the baking dish for uniform baking.
- Let the casserole rest for a few minutes before serving for easier slicing.
