Cattle Drive Casserole
A hearty and comforting casserole that combines savory layers of ground beef, cheese, and creamy toppings, perfect for family gatherings and weeknight dinners.
Ingredients
Biscuit Base
- 1 box cheddar-garlic biscuit mix with seasoning packet (about 11 oz/320 g)
- 3/4 cup cold water
- 1 teaspoon nonstick cooking spray or oil for greasing the dish
Beef Mixture
- 1 lb ground beef (85/15 or 90/10)
- 1 medium yellow onion, diced
- 1 packet taco seasoning (1 oz/28 g)
- 1/4 cup water
- 1 can fire-roasted diced tomatoes (14.5 oz/411 g), drained
- 1 can diced green chiles (4 oz/113 g), undrained
Creamy Topping
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 2 cups shredded Colby Jack cheese, divided (225 g) 1 cup for mixing, 1 cup for topping
- 1 tablespoon chopped parsley or sliced green onion, optional for garnish
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with nonstick spray or oil.
- In a medium bowl, stir together the biscuit mix, seasoning packet, and cold water until combined and sticky. Press evenly into the bottom of the prepared dish.
Bake Biscuit Layer
- Bake the biscuit layer for 6-8 minutes until set but not browned. Remove from the oven while keeping it on.
Cook Beef Mixture
- Brown the ground beef and diced onion in a large skillet over medium heat, breaking the beef into small crumbles. Drain excess grease if needed.
- Stir in the taco seasoning, 1/4 cup water, drained tomatoes, and green chiles. Simmer for 2-3 minutes until saucy.
Prepare Creamy Topping
- In a small bowl, mix the sour cream, mayonnaise, and 1 cup of the shredded cheese until fully combined.
Assemble Casserole
- Spread the beef mixture evenly over the biscuit base, then spoon the creamy topping over it, and sprinkle the remaining cheese on top.
Bake Casserole
- Bake everything for 28-32 minutes until bubbling and melted. Let it rest for about 8-10 minutes before serving.
- Garnish with chopped parsley or green onion if desired.
Notes
For the best results, use room temperature ingredients, don't rush the browning of the beef, and let the casserole rest before serving.