Introduction
Gather your loved ones around the table for a dish that’s sure to warm their hearts and fill their bellies! This Cattle Drive Casserole is a delightful blend of flavors and textures, making it a perfect option for family dinners or cozy get-togethers. Imagine the aroma of seasoned ground beef mingling with the sweetness of corn and the zest of tomatoes as it bakes to golden perfection. Topped with melty cheddar cheese and a creamy dollop of sour cream, this casserole is a comforting plateful of love!
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 can (8 oz) tomato sauce
- 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup corn kernels, frozen or canned
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 2 cups cooked rice
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup green bell pepper, chopped
- 1/2 cup sour cream
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes
Yield: 6 servings
Directions and Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to prepare for this hearty bake.
- In a large skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat, letting it sizzle until fully cooked. Drain any excess fat to keep the dish from being too greasy.
- Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet, cooking them until the onion is translucent and fragrant.
- Stir in the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, kidney beans, black beans, corn, chili powder, cumin, salt, and black pepper. Mix everything well, allowing the flavors to meld together.
- In a large baking dish, layer the cooked rice evenly across the bottom to create a solid base for your casserole.
- Pour the beef and vegetable mixture over the rice, spreading it evenly to ensure every bite is packed with delicious flavor.
- Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese on top, followed by the chopped green bell pepper for a pop of color and crunch.
- Cover the dish with foil and bake for 25 minutes, allowing the flavors to infuse and the cheese to start melting.
- Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, with golden edges.
- Serve hot, topped with dollops of sour cream for an extra creamy finish.
Notes or Tips
This casserole is incredibly versatile! Feel free to add in any vegetables you have on hand, such as zucchini or bell peppers. For those who like a bit of spice, consider adding jalapeños or red pepper flakes to kick it up a notch!
If you want to make this dish ahead of time, assemble everything and cover it tightly with foil. Store it in the refrigerator and simply pop it in the oven when you’re ready to enjoy!
Cooking Techniques
Browning ground beef in a skillet is essential for developing flavor. Make sure to cook it over medium heat and break it into small pieces for even cooking. The layering technique in this casserole ensures that each spoonful combines the hearty beef, tender beans, and flavorful rice, making for a satisfying meal. Baking covered at first helps to keep the moisture in, resulting in a rich and creamy casserole.
FAQ
Can I use other types of beans?
Absolutely! Feel free to mix and match based on your taste preferences. Pinto beans or even chickpeas would work beautifully.
How can I make this vegetarian?
Simply replace the ground beef with a plant-based meat substitute, or increase the amount of beans and add extra veggies for a delicious vegetarian option.
Conclusion
There you have it, a comforting Cattle Drive Casserole that brings warmth and flavor to your dinner table! Whether it’s a casual family meal or a gathering with friends, this dish is sure to impress. Enjoy the delightful blend of ingredients and the smiles that come with every bite – happy cooking!