Cattle Drive Casserole
Cattle Drive Casserole is a hearty, classic dish that evokes the spirit of old Western cookouts and is perfect for family gatherings or casual weeknight dinners. This dish seamlessly combines flavors and textures, making it a crowd-pleaser that satisfies hunger. With its layers of delicious ingredients and simple preparation, you’ll find that making this casserole is not only easy but also enjoyable. Let’s dive into the ingredients and directions for this unforgettable meal.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (15 oz) can black beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 (15 oz) can corn, drained
- 1 (10 oz) can diced tomatoes with green chilies
- 1 cup cooked rice
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp pepper
- 1 cup beef broth
- 6-8 flour tortillas, cut into quarters
Directions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
- Cook the beef: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef with chopped onions until the beef is browned and the onions are tender. Add minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
- Add the beans and vegetables: Stir in the black beans, corn, diced tomatoes with green chilies, cooked rice, and combine well.
- Season the mixture: Sprinkle in cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Stir in the beef broth to help blend all the flavors.
- Layer the casserole: Place half of the torn flour tortillas at the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Spoon half of the beef mixture over the tortillas, then sprinkle with half of the cheddar cheese. Repeat the layers with the remaining tortillas, beef mixture, and top with the remaining cheddar cheese.
- Bake: Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for another 10–15 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
- Cool and serve: Allow the casserole to cool for a few minutes before slicing and serving. Enjoy your hearty Cattle Drive Casserole with a side salad or your favorite condiment such as sour cream or salsa.
Why You’ll Love This Casserole
Cattle Drive Casserole is more than just a one-dish meal; it’s a delightful blend of textures and flavors that the whole family will adore. The combination of seasoned beef, beans, cheese, and vegetables makes for a nutritious meal loaded with protein and fiber. Its adaptability allows you to make adjustments based on your dietary preferences. For instance, you can substitute turkey for beef for a leaner option, or use gluten-free tortillas for a gluten-free meal.
Additionally, this casserole freezes well, making it a fantastic choice for meal prep. You can easily double the recipe and save half for later – just ensure it’s stored in an airtight container.
How you serve it can be just as versatile. Pair it with a simple green salad, some guacamole, or even a refreshing salsa to add a bit of zest!
Conclusion
In conclusion, Cattle Drive Casserole is not only easy to prepare but it also brings comfort food to a whole new level. With its rich flavors and fulfilling ingredients, this casserole is ideal for large gatherings or quiet family meals alike. Your loved ones will be asking for seconds, if not thirds!
Cattle Drive Casserole
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef Can substitute with ground turkey for a leaner option.
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 15 oz can black beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 15 oz can corn, drained
- 1 10 oz can diced tomatoes with green chilies
- 1 cup cooked rice
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp pepper
- 1 cup beef broth
- 6-8 pieces flour tortillas, cut into quarters Can use gluten-free tortillas if desired.
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
- In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef with chopped onions until the beef is browned and the onions are tender. Add minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
Mixing Ingredients
- Stir in the black beans, corn, diced tomatoes with green chilies, cooked rice, and combine well.
- Sprinkle in cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Stir in the beef broth to help blend all the flavors.
Layering Casserole
- Place half of the torn flour tortillas at the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Spoon half of the beef mixture over the tortillas, then sprinkle with half of the cheddar cheese.
- Repeat the layers with the remaining tortillas, beef mixture, and top with the remaining cheddar cheese.
Baking
- Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes.
- Remove the foil and bake for another 10–15 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
Serving
- Allow the casserole to cool for a few minutes before slicing and serving. Enjoy your hearty Cattle Drive Casserole with a side salad or your favorite condiment such as sour cream or salsa.