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A freshly baked Cattle Drive Casserole with a golden, crispy top, served in a rustic ceramic dish on a wooden table.

Cattle Drive Casserole for the Ultimate Comfort Meal

Enjoy a hearty, flavorful Cattle Drive Casserole – the perfect comfort food for family dinners with easy prep and satisfying taste!
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 45 minutes
1 hour
Course Main Dish
Cuisine American
Servings 6
Calories 450 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • Ground Beef 1 lb: The star of this casserole, ground beef gives it a hearty, protein-packed base that everyone will love.
  • Cheddar Cheese 2 cups, shredded: A generous amount of cheddar cheese gives the casserole that perfect gooey, melty finish. If you prefer a sharper taste, go for sharp cheddar!
  • Frozen Mixed Vegetables 2 cups: A colorful mix of peas, carrots, and corn adds a nice pop of flavor and texture. You can also swap in your favorite veggies—green beans or bell peppers are great options.
  • Sour Cream 1 cup: This creamy ingredient adds richness and helps bring everything together. It gives the casserole its smooth texture and tangy flavor.
  • Frozen Hash Browns 4 cups: These are perfect for the base and top of the casserole. They give the dish a crispy texture while soaking up all the delicious flavors.
  • Cream of Mushroom Soup 1 can, 10.5 oz: This ingredient not only adds flavor but also helps bind the casserole together, making each bite creamy and indulgent.
  • Onion Powder 1 tsp: For a hint of savory flavor that complements the beef and vegetables.
  • Garlic Powder 1 tsp: Adds a nice, aromatic layer of flavor that enhances the overall taste.
  • Salt & Pepper to taste: Season to your preference for a well-balanced flavor.

Instructions
 

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

  • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures it’s at the perfect temperature when you’re ready to bake your casserole.

Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef

  • Heat a small amount of oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until it’s browned and fully cooked through. Remove any excess fat and set the cooked beef aside.

Step 3: Mix the Casserole Base

  • In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked ground beef, sour cream, cream of mushroom soup, onion powder, garlic powder, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Mix everything thoroughly until the mixture becomes smooth and evenly blended.

Step 4: Add the Veggies and Potatoes

  • Next, fold in the frozen mixed vegetables and frozen hash browns. These ingredients give the casserole its heartiness and texture. If you’re using fresh veggies, be sure to lightly cook them before adding them in.

Step 5: Layer the Casserole

  • Spread the beef and vegetable mixture into a greased 9x13-inch baking dish, ensuring it’s evenly distributed. Then, sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese on top. You can add extra cheese if you love a gooey, cheesy finish!

Step 6: Bake

  • Cover the casserole with aluminum foil and bake it in the preheated oven for 30 minutes. This helps the flavors meld together. After 30 minutes, remove the foil and continue baking for another 15-20 minutes until the top is golden and bubbly.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy

  • Once it’s done, let the casserole sit for a few minutes to set before serving. The crispy top and creamy interior are the perfect balance of textures—your family will love it!

Notes

Nutrition Information (per serving):
  • Calories: 450
  • Total Fat: 25g
  • Saturated Fat: 10g
  • Cholesterol: 60mg
  • Sodium: 800mg
  • Carbohydrates: 30g
  • Dietary Fiber: 3g
  • Sugars: 5g
  • Protein: 30g
  • Vitamin A: 15% DV
  • Vitamin C: 20% DV
  • Calcium: 20% DV
  • Iron: 15% DV
Keyword Cattle Drive Casserole, Easy Comfort Food, Family Dinner