Cattle Drive Casserole
Cattle Drive Casserole is a rich and satisfying one-pan meal featuring seasoned ground beef, onions, bell peppers, corn, tomatoes, creamy cheese, and a buttery biscuit topping. Baked until golden and bubbling, this comforting casserole is perfect for busy weeknights, potlucks, family dinners, or meal prep. Easy to prepare with everyday ingredients, it delivers hearty cowboy-inspired flavors in every bite.
Ingredients
For the Beef Filling
- 1½ pounds (680 g) lean ground beef
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 1 green bell pepper, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, drained
- 1 cup frozen corn
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon ground cumin
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
For the Creamy Layer
- 4 oz (115 g) cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup sour cream
- 1½ cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
For the Biscuit Topping
- 1 can refrigerated biscuit dough
- 2 tablespoons melted butter
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the onion and bell pepper, cooking for 4–5 minutes until softened.
- Add the garlic and cook for 30 seconds. Stir in the ground beef and cook until browned. Drain any excess fat.
- Mix in the diced tomatoes, corn, chili powder, smoked paprika, cumin, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Simmer for about 5 minutes.
- In a separate bowl, blend the softened cream cheese with the sour cream until smooth.
- Spread the beef mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish.
- Carefully spread the cream cheese mixture over the beef, then sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly on top.
- Arrange the biscuit dough pieces over the cheese layer, leaving a little space between each biscuit.
- Brush the biscuits with melted butter mixed with garlic powder.
- Bake for 30–35 minutes, or until the biscuits are golden brown and the casserole is hot and bubbling. Garnish with chopped parsley before serving.
Notes
- Lean ground beef helps reduce excess grease.
- Rotel tomatoes can be used for a spicier version.
- Soften the cream cheese before mixing.
- Leave small gaps between biscuits for even baking.
- Sharp cheddar provides the best flavor.
- Let the casserole rest for 10 minutes before serving.
- Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Reheat in the oven for the crispiest biscuit topping.