Cheesy Cattle Drive Casserole

If you’re in the mood for a hearty, comforting meal that’s packed with flavor, look no further than the Cheesy Cattle Drive Casserole. This dish is like a warm embrace on a chilly day, combining spicy beef, creamy toppings, and a biscuit base that soaks up all the deliciousness. Whether you’ve been on a cattle drive or not, this casserole promises to energize and satisfy like no other.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This casserole is a medley of flavors that come together beautifully. The spicy beef filling is complemented by a creamy topping of green chiles, sour cream, and mayo. The biscuit base adds a perfect balance to the bold flavors, making it suitable not just for dinner but also for breakfast or lunch. Plus, it’s easy to prepare and sure to be a hit with the whole family.

Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need

• Large pan or skillet
• 9×13-inch baking dish
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Non-stick spray

Ingredients

• 1 1/2 pounds ground beef
• 1 (10 oz.) can fire-roasted diced tomatoes with green chiles
• 1 (4 oz.) can diced green chiles
• 1 (1.25 oz.) packet 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

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350º F and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with non-stick spray.
2. In a large pan or skillet over medium-high heat, cook the ground beef, onion, and red bell pepper until the meat is browned and the vegetables are softened. Drain off the excess grease.
3. Mix in the taco seasoning, and season with salt and pepper to taste. Set aside.
4. In a medium bowl, whisk together the sour cream, mayonnaise, 1 cup of cheddar cheese, green chiles, and garlic powder.
5. In a separate bowl, combine the biscuit mix with 1 cup of water, adding a little more water if needed, until a soft dough forms.
6. Press the dough into the bottom of the greased baking dish and bake for 5-7 minutes, or until lightly golden.
7. Remove the dish from the oven and spread the beef mixture over the biscuit layer. Then, layer with the diced tomatoes.
8. Spread the sour cream mixture over the tomatoes and sprinkle with the remaining cheddar cheese.
9. Return the baking dish to the oven and cook for 30 minutes, or until everything is warmed through.
10. Remove from the oven, serve, and enjoy!

Tips for Success

• Make sure to drain the grease from the beef to avoid a greasy casserole.
• The biscuit layer should be slightly golden before adding the beef mixture to ensure it holds up well.
• Adjust the amount of taco seasoning to suit your spice preference.

Additional Tips or Variations

• Try adding some jalapeños for an extra kick.
• Substitute ground turkey for a lighter version of the casserole.
• For a vegetarian option, replace the beef with black beans and corn.

Nutritional Highlights (Per Serving)

This casserole is high in protein, thanks to the ground beef and cheese, and offers a good amount of calcium. It’s a filling option that provides a well-rounded meal.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the beef and biscuit layers in advance, then assemble and bake when ready to serve.

How can I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for best results.

Can I freeze this casserole?
Yes, you can freeze the baked casserole. Let it cool completely, wrap tightly, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.

Conclusion

Cheesy Cattle Drive Casserole is a must-try for anyone who loves a good, hearty meal. It’s a comforting dish that’s perfect for any occasion, and we hope you’ll give it a try. If you do, we’d love to hear about your experience. Share your thoughts and any variations you tried in the comments below!