If you’re on the hunt for a satisfying, hearty dish that brings warmth and flavor to the table, the Cattle Drive Casserole Recipe is your new best friend. This comforting casserole combines juicy ground beef, zesty diced tomatoes with green chiles, and the creamy goodness of sour cream and mayonnaise—all nestled under a golden, fluffy biscuit crust. It’s a perfect crowd-pleaser for family dinners, weeknight meals, or any occasion where you crave bold, cowboy-inspired flavors with effortless prep and baking. Let me walk you through this delicious discovery!
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe calls for simple, pantry-friendly ingredients that pack a punch when combined. Each element plays a key role in delivering the ultimate balance of savory, creamy, and cheesy goodness along with a tender biscuit crust to seal the deal.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: For sautéing the beef and onions to perfection without sticking.
- 1 pound ground beef: The hearty foundation that makes this casserole satisfying and filling.
- 1 small yellow onion (diced): Adds sweetness and depth as it softens during cooking.
- 1 (10 oz) can diced tomatoes with green chiles: Brings a zesty kick and moisture to the beef layer.
- 1/2 cup sour cream: Creamy texture and a tangy contrast to the spicy tomatoes.
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise: Adds richness and helps bind the layers smoothly.
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (divided): Sharp, melty goodness divided between the creamy mix and the topping.
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder: Subtle savory note that enhances the beef’s flavor.
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder: Boosts the bouquet of flavors without overpowering.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Brings out all the natural flavors.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Gentle heat and peppery brightness.
- 2 cups biscuit baking mix: Creates a soft, buttery biscuit crust that holds everything together.
- 1/2 cup milk: Moistens the biscuit mix for a tender crust.
How to Make Cattle Drive Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Oven and Pan
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to ensure the casserole doesn’t stick and for easy serving.
Step 2: Brown the Beef and Onion
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and diced onion, cooking until the meat is browned and the onion is tender, about 5 to 7 minutes. Drain off any extra fat to keep the casserole from feeling greasy. Stir in the diced tomatoes with green chiles right from the can (no draining needed), salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. Let everything simmer together for a few minutes so the flavors blend beautifully, then remove from heat.
Step 3: Mix the Creamy Cheese Layer
In a separate bowl, combine the sour cream, mayonnaise, and half (1/2 cup) of the shredded cheddar cheese. This mixture adds a luscious, tangy layer that contrasts wonderfully with the savory beef base.
Step 4: Make the Biscuit Crust
Stir the biscuit baking mix together with the milk until you get a soft dough. Press this dough evenly across the bottom of your prepared baking dish, forming a crust that will bake to a golden, flaky foundation for the casserole.
Step 5: Assemble the Layers
Spread the beef and tomato mixture evenly over the biscuit crust. Then gently spoon the sour cream and mayo cheese mixture over the beef layer, smoothing it out as best you can. Sprinkle the remaining shredded cheddar cheese on top to create a beautifully bubbly, cheesy finish after baking.
Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Pop the dish into your preheated oven and bake for 30 to 35 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the casserole is bubbly and the edges turn a lovely golden brown. Allow the casserole to rest for 5 minutes before slicing and serving to let the layers settle perfectly.
How to Serve Cattle Drive Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate your plate, sprinkle chopped green onions or fresh cilantro over the top for a pop of color and fresh flavor. For those who love a bit of heat, thinly sliced jalapeños make a fantastic garnish to complement the green chiles in the recipe.
Side Dishes
Serve this casserole alongside a crisp green salad or steamed vegetables to add freshness and balance to the richness of the dish. Cornbread or warm dinner rolls also make delicious companions to soak up any leftover creamy cheese sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve individual portions in ramekins and top each one with a dollop of sour cream and a sprinkle of extra cheese or crushed tortilla chips. This makes the meal feel a little fancier and perfect for entertaining friends and family.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, cover any leftovers tightly with plastic wrap or foil and refrigerate. This casserole keeps well for 3 to 4 days, making it ideal for quick reheats and second servings during busy times.
Freezing
You can freeze the assembled casserole (before baking) or freeze leftovers after it has cooled. For freezing, wrap the dish well in foil or store in an airtight container to prevent freezer burn. It will keep its flavor and texture for up to 2 months.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers in the oven at 350°F until warmed through and bubbly, about 15 to 20 minutes. You can also microwave individual portions for 2 to 3 minutes, though the oven will preserve that crispy biscuit crust better.
FAQs
Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead of ground beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken can be swapped in to make a lighter casserole. Just be sure to adjust cooking times as those meats tend to cook faster and can dry out if overcooked.
Is the biscuit baking mix necessary, or can I make the crust from scratch?
The biscuit baking mix saves time and guarantees a tender crust, but you can definitely make your own biscuit dough from scratch if you prefer. Just keep in mind the texture might vary slightly depending on your recipe.
Can I add vegetables to this casserole?
Yes! Feel free to toss in extra veggies like corn, bell peppers, or black beans to make the dish even heartier and colorful—just add them when cooking the ground beef.
Is this casserole spicy?
The diced tomatoes with green chiles add a subtle heat, but it’s quite mild and kid-friendly. You can easily control the spice level by choosing mild or spicy tomatoes or by adding jalapeños for more kick.
How many does this recipe serve and can it be doubled?
This recipe makes about 6 generous servings. It can be doubled to feed a larger crowd; just use a bigger baking dish and adjust the baking time accordingly.
Final Thoughts
This Cattle Drive Casserole Recipe is truly comfort food at its best—simple to prepare, bursting with flavor, and the perfect way to bring loved ones together around the dinner table. Whether you’re new to casseroles or looking for a reliable go-to for weeknights, give this cowboy-inspired dish a try. I promise it will become a cherished favorite in your recipe collection!
