Starting my journey in the kitchen, I stumbled upon a recipe that promised both heartiness and warmth: the Cattle Drive Casserole. The first time I prepared this dish, I was captivated by its simple yet delectable flavors. It’s a perfect blend of seasoned ground beef, vibrant vegetables, and cheesy goodness, all nestled under a comforting biscuit layer. Instantly family-friendly, this casserole quickly became a staple in my household, satisfying both hungry bellies and busy schedules. If you’re looking for an easy-to-make meal that’s packed with flavor, look no further than Cattle Drive Casserole.
What is Cattle Drive Casserole?
Cattle Drive Casserole is a hearty and satisfying dish that combines layers of seasoned ground beef, colorful vegetables, creamy mixtures, and a soft biscuit topping. The allure of this casserole lies in its robust flavors and textures, making it a favorite for family dinners and gatherings. This dish not only delivers on taste but also on convenience, as it can be prepared ahead of time and kept in the refrigerator or freezer for later enjoyment.
Why You’ll Love This Cattle Drive Casserole:
- Quick and simple to prepare: With straightforward steps, this recipe can be prepared in under an hour, making it perfect for weeknight dinners.
- Family-friendly meal: Its rich flavor profile appeals to all age groups, ensuring that everyone leaves the table satisfied.
- Great for beginners: The clear instructions and easily available ingredients make this a go-to recipe for anyone starting their cooking journey.
- Versatile: Whether served as a main dish or alongside a salad or bread, it complements various sides beautifully.
- Make-ahead option: You can prepare it in advance and simply bake it when ready to serve, saving you time during busy evenings.
Ingredients
- Equipment:
- Large skillet
- 2 Medium mixing bowls
- 9 x 13” casserole dish
- Ingredients:
- 1.5 pounds Lean Ground Beef
- 1 Red Bell Pepper, seeded and chopped
- 1 Yellow Onion, chopped
- 1 ounce Taco Seasoning Mix
- 2 ½ cups Biscuit Mix, like Bisquick
- 1 cup Water
- Cooking Spray, like Pam
- ½ cup Sour Cream
- ½ cup Mayonnaise
- 4 ounces Diced Green Chiles, drained
- 1 ½ cups Cheddar Cheese, Fiesta Blend, shredded, divided
- 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder
- ½ cup Salsa, mild
Step-by-Step Instructions for Cattle Drive Casserole
- Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Cook the Ground Beef: Heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and break it apart with a spoon. Cook until no longer pink, stirring occasionally. Drain off any excess fat.
- Prepare the Biscuit Dough: In a mixing bowl, combine the biscuit mix and water. Stir until well mixed, ideally using your hands for thorough blending. Spray a casserole dish with cooking spray and press the dough into the dish, spreading it out to the edges. Bake in the preheated oven for 5-8 minutes or until the dough is set and lightly golden. Keep the oven on.
- Cook the Vegetables: Add chopped onions and red bell pepper to the cooked ground beef. Stir and cook for about 4 minutes. Then add taco seasoning and mix well. Remove from heat.
- Assemble the Layers: Spread the cooked ground beef mixture evenly on top of the baked biscuit layer.
- Prepare the Sour Cream Layer: In a medium bowl, combine sour cream, mayonnaise, drained green chiles, ¾ cup shredded cheese, and garlic powder. Mix until smooth. Carefully spread this mixture over the ground beef layer.
- Add Salsa and Cheese: Add small spoonfuls of salsa over the sour cream layer (no need to spread it out). Sprinkle the remaining shredded cheese evenly on top.
- Bake: Place the casserole back in the oven, uncovered, and bake for 30 minutes or until hot and bubbly.
Pro Tips and Variations
- Customize the Heat: Adjust the taco seasoning to your spice preference. For a milder dish, use a mild version or a different seasoning mix.
- Vegetarian Option: Substitute the ground beef with lentils or other plant-based proteins and add extra veggies for a hearty vegetarian meal.
- Extra Toppings: Consider adding sliced olives, jalapeños, or avocado slices on top before baking for additional flavors.
- Cheese Blends: Experiment with different cheese blends for varied flavor profiles, such as pepper jack for heat or mozzarella for a milder taste.
How to Serve Cattle Drive Casserole
This casserole is incredibly versatile and can be served in numerous ways. Pair it with a crisp side salad for a refreshing contrast or serve it with warm, crusty bread for a hearty meal. You can also consider adding chips or quesadillas for a fun twist to your dining experience. It is great for potlucks or family gatherings where sharing comfort food is the highlight of the occasion.
How to Store Cattle Drive Casserole
To store leftovers, allow the casserole to cool completely, then cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. For longer storage, you can freeze it for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, reheat in the oven at 350°F until hot and bubbly, ensuring to cover it with foil to prevent drying out.
Nutrition Information
While specific nutritional values can vary based on the exact ingredients used, this casserole is generally a good source of protein from the beef and cheese, as well as vitamins from the vegetables. It provides a balanced combination of carbohydrates from the biscuit mix and fats from the cheese and sour cream.
FAQs About Cattle Drive Casserole
1. Can I make this casserole ahead of time? Yes! Prepare the casserole up to the baking stage, cover it tightly, and refrigerate it overnight. Just bake it when you’re ready to serve.
2. How can I make Cattle Drive Casserole gluten-free? To make this dish gluten-free, use gluten-free biscuit mix and ensure all other ingredients are certified gluten-free.
3. Can I substitute ground beef with another protein? Absolutely! Ground turkey, chicken, or plant-based alternatives will work as great substitutes while still providing a delicious flavor.
4. What can I serve on the side? A light salad, corn on the cob, or tortilla chips would complement the casserole perfectly.
Conclusion
Cattle Drive Casserole is not just a meal; it’s a delightful experience that brings warmth and satisfaction to any dinner table. With its comforting flavors and easy preparation, it is a recipe worth sharing with loved ones. So roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and try this delicious casserole. Don’t forget to share your cooking adventures and let us know how your family enjoyed it!
Cattle Drive Casserole
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Cook the Ground Beef: Heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and break it apart with a spoon. Cook until no longer pink, stirring occasionally. Drain off any excess fat.
- Prepare the Biscuit Dough: In a mixing bowl, combine the biscuit mix and water. Stir until well mixed. Spray a casserole dish with cooking spray and press the dough into the dish, spreading it out to the edges. Bake in the preheated oven for 5-8 minutes or until the dough is set and lightly golden.
- Cook the Vegetables: Add chopped onions and red bell pepper to the cooked ground beef. Stir and cook for about 4 minutes. Then add taco seasoning and mix well. Remove from heat.
- Assemble the Layers: Spread the cooked ground beef mixture evenly on top of the baked biscuit layer.
- Prepare the Sour Cream Layer: In a medium bowl, combine sour cream, mayonnaise, drained green chiles, ¾ cup shredded cheese, and garlic powder. Mix until smooth and spread this mixture over the ground beef layer.
- Add Salsa and Cheese: Add small spoonfuls of salsa over the sour cream layer. Sprinkle the remaining shredded cheese evenly on top.
- Bake: Place the casserole back in the oven, uncovered, and bake for 30 minutes or until hot and bubbly.