Cattle Drive Casserole

Introduction

Craving a hearty casserole that brings both comfort and robust Tex-Mex flavor to the table? The Cattle Drive Casserole layers seasoned ground beef, creamy cheese, and biscuity topping for a crowd-pleasing weeknight dinner or potluck centerpiece. Its blend of savory spices and melty goodness make every bite irresistible—proof that fuss-free doesn’t have to mean flavor-free.

Perfect for when you’re feeding a hungry crew or need leftovers that taste even better the next day, this satisfying classic is easy to assemble and endlessly customizable with your favorite veggies or toppings.

What Makes This Cattle Drive Casserole So Addictive?

This casserole stands out thanks to a dynamic blend of ground beef, savory taco seasoning, green chilies, and sweet corn, all nestled under a golden biscuit crust. Cream cheese and sour cream meld with the filling, adding tang and richness that perfectly contrast the slightly spicy base.

Every layer plays a vital role in achieving that unbeatable balance of creamy, cheesy, and hearty with just the right kick—from the juicy beef to the soft, buttery crust. It’s the kind of main dish that draws everyone back for seconds.

How to Build Flavors for Maximum Deliciousness

Start with fresh vegetables for aromatic depth—onions, garlic, and bell peppers set the tone for the meat mixture. For quick, perfectly diced veggies, a Mueller Pro-Series 10-in-1, 8 Blade Vegetable Chopper speeds prep and ensures uniform pieces for even cooking.

Use a broad, nonstick skillet like the SENSARTE Nonstick Frying Pan Skillet, 9.5 Inch to sauté the vegetables and brown the beef for optimal caramelization without sticking. Once cooked, a Farberware Professional Heat Resistant Nylon Meat and Potato Masher, Black helps break the beef into small, even crumbles—essential for the proper texture and every bite bursting with flavor.

Assembly Tips for a Perfectly Even Bake

Line your casserole dish with Reynolds Kitchens Brown Parchment Paper Roll, 45 Square Feet for effortless serving and minimal cleanup. Spread the meat and veggie mixture evenly as your base, top with creamy mixture, then sprinkle the shredded cheddar before covering with the easy biscuit batter—it bakes up golden and slightly crispy at the edges for that irresistible finish.

Allow the casserole to rest for 10–15 minutes before slicing; this helps it hold its shape neatly when served.

Serving and Storage Suggestions for a Crowd

A slice of this Cattle Drive Casserole pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad (easily packed in a Bentgo Salad Container – 54 oz Bowl, Khaki Green for lunch the next day), tortilla chips, or a dollop of guacamole. Feeding a large group or saving for the week? Store portions in Rubbermaid Brilliance Food Storage Containers, Set of 5 (3.2 Cup) for fresh, mess-free leftovers.

For parties, serve straight from the baking pan atop a colorful table runner, or portion into individual servings for easy grab-and-go convenience.

Nutritional Information and Yield

This casserole yields 6 generous servings, each packed with protein and satisfying fiber thanks to the meat and beans. A single serving contains approximately 540–620 calories, depending on optional toppings and mix-ins. It’s hearty and filling—ideal for active days, special events, or when comfort is on the menu.

Cattle Drive Casserole (Recap)

Packed with savory ground beef, rich cheese, and a light, golden crust, Cattle Drive Casserole delivers maximum comfort and crowd-pleasing flavor with minimal effort. It’s your go-to recipe for weeknights, potlucks, and hungry families who love big, bold taste.

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×13″ baking pan with Reynolds Kitchens Brown Parchment Paper Roll for easy clean-up.
2. In a large skillet, heat a dab of oil over medium-high heat. Add the diced onion, bell pepper, and minced garlic; sauté until softened, about 3 minutes.
3. Add the ground beef to the skillet. Use a Farberware Professional Meat and Potato Masher to break up the meat finely as it browns. Cook until no longer pink; drain excess fat if needed.
4. Stir in the taco seasoning, diced tomatoes with chilies (undrained), and drained corn. Simmer for 4–5 minutes until flavors are combined. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. In a separate bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese and sour cream until smooth. Gently fold in 1 cup of the shredded cheddar cheese.
6. Spoon the beef and veggie mixture into the prepared baking pan, spreading evenly. Dollop and spread the cream cheese mixture over the meat, then sprinkle with the remaining cheese.
7. Separate the biscuit dough and arrange on top of the filling, or drop spoonfuls of homemade biscuit mix to mostly cover the surface.
8. Bake 25–30 minutes, until the biscuit topping is golden brown and the casserole is bubbling at the edges. For easiest handling, use a pair of KitchenAid Ribbed Soft Silicone Oven Mitts.
9. Let rest 10–15 minutes before slicing. Top with green onions, cilantro, or jalapeños if desired. Serve warm.

Cook and Prep Times

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Cook Time: 30 minutes

Total Time: 45 minutes

Enjoy the savory satisfaction of Cattle Drive Casserole—a one-pan wonder that never disappoints!