Cattle Drive Casserole
A hearty casserole that combines ground beef, vibrant vegetables, and creamy toppings, capturing the spirit of the American West.
Ingredients
Base Ingredients
- 1 lb Ground beef Protein base and flavor booster.
- 1 cup Biscuit mix Contributes texture and structure.
- 1/2 cup Cold water Used to prepare the biscuit mixture.
- 1 tbsp Cooking spray To grease the casserole dish.
Vegetable Mix
- 1 medium Chopped onion Adds sweetness and moisture.
- 1 medium Chopped red bell pepper Adds crunch and color.
- 1 pkg Taco seasoning Imparts Southwestern flavors.
- 1 can Diced green chiles (drained) Adds mild heat and flavor.
Creamy Topping
- 1 cup Sour cream Adds creaminess and tang.
- 1/2 cup Mayonnaise Enhances richness and moisture.
- 1 cup Shredded cheese (divided) Provides a melty, flavorful topping.
- 1 tsp Garlic powder Adds depth of flavor.
Finishing Touch
- 1 cup Salsa Offers refreshing contrast and zing.
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 350°F.
- In a skillet over medium-high heat, cook the ground beef until it is no longer pink, breaking it apart with a spoon. Drain any excess fat.
- Prepare the biscuit dough by mixing the biscuit mix with cold water in a bowl. Spray a casserole dish with cooking spray and press the dough into the bottom, spreading it to the edges. Bake the base in the preheated oven for 5-8 minutes until set and lightly golden.
Cooking
- Add the chopped onions and red bell pepper to the cooked ground beef in the skillet. Cook for about 4 minutes until the vegetables soften, then stir in the taco seasoning, mixing well. Remove from heat.
- Spread the beef and vegetable mixture evenly over the baked biscuit layer.
- Prepare the creamy layer by mixing the sour cream, mayonnaise, drained green chiles, ¾ cup shredded cheese, and garlic powder in another bowl. Spread this mixture on top of the beef layer.
- Spoon small dollops of salsa over the creamy layer without spreading it, then sprinkle the remaining shredded cheese on top.
- Return the casserole to the oven and bake uncovered for about 30 minutes, or until hot and bubbling.
Notes
Store leftovers in an airtight container. Can be frozen for up to three months. Reheat in the oven at 350°F for 20-25 minutes or microwave individual portions.