Hearty Cattle Drive Casserole Recipe

Save this recipe on:

When you’re craving comfort food that fills both your belly and your soul, nothing hits the spot like a bubbling hot dish of Hearty Cattle Drive Casserole. This Tex-Mex inspired classic combines savory ground beef, hearty potatoes, and melted cheese in one irresistible bake. Each forkful delivers a perfect balance of meaty richness and cheesy goodness, accented with subtle spices and the creamy finish that makes casseroles so loved across kitchens.

Whether you’re cooking for a big family dinner, feeding hungry teens after practice, or prepping for an easy weekday meal, this casserole delivers on both flavor and convenience. It’s a crowd-pleaser that’s easy to prepare ahead and even better the next day. Think of it as your go-to when you want something filling, nostalgic, and full of down-home comfort.

---

Ingredients for this Hearty Cattle Drive Casserole

• 1 ½ pounds ground beef
• 1 small onion, diced
• 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
• 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
• 1 can (10 oz) diced tomatoes with green chiles, drained
• 4 cups diced frozen or fresh potatoes
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (or a cheddar-jack blend)
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional toppings: chopped green onions, sour cream, jalapeño slices

---

Step 1: Prepare the Beef Base

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef with the diced onion until the meat is browned and the onion is soft and translucent. Drain any excess grease to prevent a soggy casserole.

Step 2: Build the Flavor

Add the cream of mushroom soup, cream of chicken soup, and diced tomatoes with green chiles to the skillet. Stir until everything is well combined. Sprinkle in the garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Let the mixture simmer for 2–3 minutes to blend the flavors.

Step 3: Layer the Casserole

In a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, spread the diced potatoes evenly across the bottom. Pour the beef mixture over the potatoes and use a spatula to spread it out. Make sure every bite will have a bit of everything.

Step 4: Add the Cheese

Generously sprinkle the shredded cheese across the top of the casserole. You can stick with cheddar or mix it up with Monterey Jack, pepper jack, or a blend for extra flavor and melt.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 35 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for another 10–15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and starting to turn golden brown. The potatoes should be fork-tender.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Once out of the oven, let the casserole rest for 5 minutes. Sprinkle chopped green onions or other toppings of your choice before serving. Plate it up hot and enjoy the satisfying, cheesy, meaty bite.

---

Estimated Nutrition

Per Serving (based on 8 servings):

• Calories: ~480 kcal
• Protein: 26g
• Carbohydrates: 28g
• Fat: 30g
• Saturated Fat: 14g
• Cholesterol: 95mg
• Fiber: 3g
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 780mg

Note: Values are approximate and may vary depending on ingredient brands or substitutions.

---

Frequently Asked Questions

What kind of potatoes work best in this casserole?

Diced hash browns or cubed russet potatoes work well. You can use frozen potatoes for convenience or fresh ones for a firmer bite.

Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?

Yes, ground turkey is a great leaner alternative. Just be sure to season it well since it’s milder than beef.

Is this dish spicy?

Not really. The diced tomatoes with green chiles add flavor but very mild heat. You can increase spice with jalapeños or hot sauce.

Can I prepare this casserole ahead of time?

Absolutely. Assemble it up to 24 hours in advance and refrigerate it until ready to bake.

How do I make it vegetarian?

Swap out the beef for plant-based crumbles or seasoned lentils and use vegetarian cream soups.

What can I serve with this casserole?

A crisp green salad, cornbread, or roasted veggies pair perfectly with this hearty dish.

Can I add beans or corn to the casserole?

Yes! Black beans, corn, or even bell peppers are great mix-ins to bulk it up and add variety.

How do I make it extra cheesy?

Layer additional shredded cheese in the middle of the casserole as well as on top, or mix in a little cream cheese for extra richness.

---

Print

Save this recipe on: