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Cowboy Casserole

A hearty comfort food casserole with ground beef, corn, black beans, cheese, and mashed potatoes baked to golden perfection.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Servings: 8
Calories: 385
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 lb ground beef (80/20 blend)
  • 1 medium yellow onion, diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 packet taco seasoning
  • 1 can (15 oz) corn, drained
  • 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1 can (10 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies
  • 2 cups shredded Mexican cheese blend
  • 3 cups prepared mashed potatoes
  • 2 green onions, chopped (optional)

Method
 

  1. Preheat oven to 375°F and grease a 9x13-inch baking dish.
  2. In a large skillet over medium-high heat, brown the ground beef until no pink remains, about 6-8 minutes. Drain excess fat.
  3. Add diced onion to the skillet and cook until softened and fragrant.
  4. Stir in minced garlic and taco seasoning, cooking for another minute until aromatic.
  5. Add corn, black beans, and diced tomatoes, mixing everything together. Simmer for 3-4 minutes.
  6. Spread the beef mixture evenly in the prepared baking dish.
  7. Sprinkle half the cheese over the meat layer.
  8. Dollop mashed potatoes on top and gently spread them to cover the surface.
  9. Top with remaining cheese and bake for 20-25 minutes until cheese melts and edges bubble.
  10. Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Notes

Use leftover or instant mashed potatoes to save time. Can be assembled 24 hours in advance and refrigerated. Make sure to drain ground beef properly to avoid soggy casserole. Let rest 5 minutes before serving. Refrigerate leftovers up to 4 days or freeze up to 3 months.