CATTLE DRIVE CASSEROLE

Name: CATTLE DRIVE CASSEROLE
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: Tex-Mex
Ingredients: 1 ½ pounds ground beef; 1 onion, minced; 1 taco seasoning packet; ½ cup sour cream; ½ cup mayonnaise; ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese, divided; ½ cup shredded pepper jack cheese, divided; One 4-ounce can diced green chilies, drained; 2 cups Bisquick; 1 cup water

Isabella

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Looking for a hearty, crowd-pleasing dish that’s easy to whip up for dinner? Look no further than our tantalizing Cattle Drive Casserole. Packed with savory ground beef, zesty taco seasoning, gooey cheeses, and a kick of green chilies, this dish is sure to become a family favorite. Plus, with simple ingredients and straightforward instructions, it’s a breeze to make, even on busy weeknights. So, let’s dive into the recipe and discover how to create this delicious masterpiece in your own kitchen.

Ingredients:

1 ½ pounds ground beef

1 onion, minced

1 taco seasoning packet

½ cup sour cream

½ cup mayonnaise

½ cup shredded cheddar cheese, divided

½ cup shredded pepper jack cheese, divided

One 4-ounce can diced green chilies, drained

2 cups Bisquick

1 cup water

Instructions:

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure it’s ready for baking your casserole to perfection.

In a nonstick skillet over medium-high heat, brown the ground beef, breaking it apart with a spatula as it cooks. Stir in the taco seasoning until the beef is thoroughly coated and cooked through.

Add the minced onion and drained diced green chilies to the skillet with the beef. Continue cooking until the onion is tender and lightly browned, infusing the mixture with rich flavors.

In a separate bowl, combine the sour cream, mayonnaise, and half of both the shredded cheddar and pepper jack cheeses. Mix until smooth and creamy, creating a delectable layer of cheesy goodness.

In another bowl, mix together the Bisquick and water until a soft dough forms. This will serve as the base for your casserole, adding a comforting texture to each bite.

Grease a 9-by-13-inch casserole dish to prevent sticking, then spread the Bisquick dough evenly across the bottom.

Next, layer the cooked ground beef mixture over the Bisquick dough, spreading it out to ensure every bite is bursting with flavor.

Carefully spoon the sour cream mixture over the beef layer, spreading it evenly to cover the entire surface.

Sprinkle the remaining shredded cheddar and pepper jack cheeses over the top of the casserole, adding an irresistible cheesy finish that will melt into gooey perfection as it bakes.

Place the casserole dish in the preheated oven and bake for approximately 30 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown on top, and the casserole is heated through.

Once done, remove the casserole from the oven and allow it to cool slightly before serving to avoid burning your eager taste buds.

Serve up generous portions of this mouthwatering Cattle Drive Casserole and watch as your family and friends devour every last bite. Enjoy!

Related Recipes:

Bisquick Cinnamon Rolls

Serving Tips:

Garnish with Fresh Herbs: Add a pop of color and freshness to your Cattle Drive Casserole by garnishing it with chopped fresh parsley or cilantro just before serving. Not only does it enhance the visual appeal, but it also adds a burst of flavor.
Pair with Sides: Complement the hearty flavors of the casserole with a side salad, steamed vegetables, or crusty bread. The crisp, refreshing contrast of a salad or the soft, warm texture of bread will elevate your dining experience.
Customize Toppings: Encourage your diners to customize their portions by offering a variety of toppings such as diced tomatoes, sliced olives, jalapeños, or avocado slices. Let them get creative and tailor their casserole to their taste preferences.

Serve with Condiments: Set out bowls of salsa, guacamole, or hot sauce alongside the casserole for those who want to add an extra kick of flavor. These condiments can take the dish to the next level and allow everyone to customize their spice level.

Storage Tips:

Refrigerate Leftovers: If you have any leftovers, allow the casserole to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Store it in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Make sure to consume within this timeframe for the best taste and quality.
Reheat Properly: To reheat individual servings, simply microwave them until heated through. Alternatively, you can reheat larger portions in the oven at a low temperature (around 325°F) until warmed to your liking. Covering the casserole with aluminum foil will prevent it from drying out.

Freeze for Future Meals: If you want to extend the shelf life of your casserole, you can freeze it for later consumption. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, or transfer to a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 2-3 months. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Consider Portioning: To make reheating easier, consider portioning the casserole before freezing. This allows you to defrost and reheat only the amount you need, reducing waste and ensuring each serving tastes fresh.

FAQs

Can I substitute ground turkey or chicken for the ground beef in this recipe?

Yes, absolutely! Feel free to swap out the ground beef for ground turkey or chicken if you prefer a leaner option or simply want to change up the flavor profile. Just follow the same cooking instructions for browning the meat and seasoning it with taco seasoning. The result will still be a delicious and satisfying casserole.

I’m gluten-free. Can I use a gluten-free alternative to Bisquick?

Certainly! If you follow a gluten-free diet, you can substitute a gluten-free baking mix for the Bisquick called for in the recipe. There are several brands available in most grocery stores that offer gluten-free pancake and baking mixes. Just make sure to check the ingredient list to ensure it aligns with your dietary needs. The casserole will still turn out wonderfully with a gluten-free alternative.

Can I prepare this casserole ahead of time and bake it later?

Absolutely! This Cattle Drive Casserole is perfect for preparing ahead of time, making it an ideal option for busy weeknights or entertaining. Simply follow all the steps up to the point of baking, then cover the assembled casserole tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and store it in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to enjoy it, remove it from the fridge, uncover, and bake according to the recipe instructions. You may need to add a few extra minutes to the baking time to ensure it’s heated through.

Can I freeze leftovers of this casserole?

Yes, you can freeze any leftovers of the Cattle Drive Casserole for future meals. Allow the casserole to cool completely before wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap, aluminum foil, or transferring it to a freezer-safe container. Properly stored, it can be frozen for up to 2-3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw the casserole overnight in the refrigerator before reheating it in the oven or microwave until heated through. Freezing is a great way to preserve the delicious flavors of this dish for later enjoyment.

Conclusion:

With its hearty flavors and simple preparation, our Cattle Drive Casserole is sure to become a staple in your recipe repertoire. Whether you’re cooking for a hungry crowd or simply craving a comforting meal, this dish delivers satisfaction in every forkful. So, rustle up the ingredients and treat yourself to a taste of home-cooked goodness tonight!