Introduction
Take a culinary journey to the Wild West with our Cattle Drive Casserole recipe. This hearty and flavorful dish pays homage to the cowboys of yesteryear, combining layers of tender beef, savory beans, zesty tomatoes, and gooey cheese for a satisfying meal that will satisfy even the hungriest of appetites. Whether you’re hosting a cowboy-themed dinner or simply craving a comforting casserole, this recipe is sure to transport you to the rugged plains of the Old West.
Ingredients
Prepare the following ingredients to create this hearty casserole:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (15 ounces) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (15 ounces) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (15 ounces) diced tomatoes
- 1 can (4 ounces) diced green chilies
- 1 packet taco seasoning
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
- 1 cup crushed tortilla chips
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Chopped fresh cilantro, for garnish (optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and set aside.
2. Brown the Ground Beef
In a large skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat until no longer pink. Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet and cook until the onion is softened and translucent.
3. Add the Beans and Tomatoes
Stir in the kidney beans, black beans, diced tomatoes, and diced green chilies, along with the taco seasoning. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Cook for an additional 5-7 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
4. Layer the Casserole
Spread half of the beef and bean mixture evenly in the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Top with half of the sour cream, followed by half of the shredded cheddar cheese and half of the shredded Monterey Jack cheese. Repeat the layers with the remaining beef and bean mixture, sour cream, and cheeses.
5. Top with Tortilla Chips
Sprinkle the crushed tortilla chips evenly over the top of the casserole, creating a crunchy topping that adds texture and flavor.
6. Bake the Casserole
Transfer the baking dish to the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the casserole is heated through.
7. Garnish and Serve
Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with chopped fresh cilantro, if desired, for a pop of color and freshness. Serve hot and enjoy the hearty flavors of the Wild West.
Experience Cowboy Cuisine
With our Cattle Drive Casserole recipe, you can channel the spirit of the Old West and enjoy the hearty flavors of cowboy cuisine right in your own home. Whether served as a main dish for dinner or as a crowd-pleasing option for a potluck or gathering, this casserole is sure to be a hit with cowboys and cowgirls alike.