Cattle Drive Casserole is a hearty and comforting dish that brings together the flavors of ground beef, cheese, and spices in a satisfying one-pan meal. Perfect for busy weeknights or potluck gatherings, this easy-to-make casserole is sure to become a family favorite. With layers of savory beef, creamy sauce, and a cheesy topping, it’s a crowd-pleaser that will have everyone coming back for seconds.
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) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- In a large skillet, cook the ground beef and minced onion over medium heat until the beef is browned and the onion is soft and translucent. Drain any excess grease.
- Stir in the taco seasoning packet and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, until the beef is coated in the seasoning.
- In a small bowl, mix together the sour cream, mayonnaise, half of the shredded cheddar cheese, half of the shredded pepper jack cheese, and diced green chilies.
- In a separate bowl, combine the Bisquick and water to form a dough.
- Press the Bisquick dough into the bottom of the prepared baking dish to form a crust.
- Spread the cooked beef mixture evenly over the Bisquick crust.
- Spread the sour cream mixture over the beef layer.
- Sprinkle the remaining shredded cheddar and pepper jack cheese over the top.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Let cool for a few minutes before serving.
Cook Notes and Variations:
- For extra heat, add chopped jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the beef mixture.
- Feel free to customize the toppings with your favorite cheese blends or additional toppings like sliced black olives or diced tomatoes.
- Serve with a dollop of sour cream and a sprinkle of fresh cilantro for a finishing touch.
Keto Version:
For a keto-friendly version of this recipe, you can make the following substitutions:
- Instead of Bisquick, use a mixture of almond flour, coconut flour, and baking powder to create a low-carb crust.
- Substitute the taco seasoning packet with homemade keto-friendly taco seasoning or a blend of chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika.
- Replace the sour cream and mayonnaise with full-fat Greek yogurt for a lower-carb option.
Cattle Drive Casserole is a versatile and satisfying dish that’s easy to customize to suit your tastes and dietary preferences. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or simply looking for a comforting meal to enjoy at home, this hearty casserole is sure to hit the spot. With its flavorful layers of seasoned beef, creamy sauce, and cheesy topping, it’s a dish that’s guaranteed to become a new family favorite. So gather your ingredients and get ready to whip up a batch of this delicious casserole for your next meal
FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions):
1. Can I prepare this casserole in advance?
- Yes, you can assemble the casserole ahead of time and refrigerate it until you’re ready to bake. Simply cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking.
2. Can I freeze leftovers?
- Absolutely! This casserole freezes well. Once it has cooled completely, cut it into individual portions and wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. Place the wrapped portions in a freezer-safe container or resealable plastic bag and freeze for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight and then reheat in the microwave or oven until heated through.
3. Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef?
- Yes, you can substitute ground turkey or chicken for the ground beef in this recipe if you prefer. Just make sure to cook the poultry thoroughly before assembling the casserole.
4. Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
- To make this recipe gluten-free, you can use a gluten-free baking mix in place of the Bisquick. Additionally, ensure that all other ingredients, such as the taco seasoning packet, are certified gluten-free.
5. How can I make this casserole spicier?
- If you like your food with a kick, you can add additional spices or hot sauce to the beef mixture. You can also use pepper jack cheese instead of cheddar for an extra spicy twist.
6. What can I serve with this casserole?
- This casserole is delicious on its own but pairs well with a variety of sides. Consider serving it with a crisp green salad, steamed vegetables, or a side of Spanish rice for a complete meal.
7. Can I use different types of cheese?
- Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different cheese combinations to suit your taste preferences. Monterey Jack, Colby, or Mexican blend cheeses would all work well in this recipe.
Cattle Drive Casserole is a versatile dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights or gatherings with friends and family. With its flavorful layers of seasoned beef, creamy sauce, and cheesy topping, it’s sure to please even the pickiest eaters. Whether you’re following a keto diet or simply looking for a comforting meal to enjoy, this easy-to-make casserole is a delicious option that’s sure to become a new favorite in your recipe repertoire. So gather your ingredients and give this recipe a try—you won’t be disappointed!