Hey there, fellow foodies! Are you looking for a quick, hearty, and delicious meal that your whole family will love? Look no further! Today, I’m sharing a mouthwatering recipe for Cattle Drive Casserole that’s ready in just 30 minutes. Perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings, this casserole is a true crowd-pleaser. And the best part? It’s incredibly easy to make, so even the most novice cooks can shine!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick family dinners have never been tastier—ready in just 30 minutes!
- Packed with flavorful layers, this casserole is a comforting, satisfying meal.
- Perfect for weeknight dinner ideas or feeding a crowd.
- Combines the best of Tex-Mex flavors with creamy, cheesy goodness.
- Minimal prep and cleanup—just one skillet and a casserole dish!
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need for this quick and hearty recipe. Don’t worry, it’s all simple, everyday ingredients you might already have on hand!
Full ingredient list with measurements is provided in the printable recipe card below.
How to Make the Recipe
Let’s dive into the step-by-step process. It’s so easy, you’ll be amazed at how quickly this comes together!
- Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 350℉. While it’s warming up, you can start on the next steps.
- Cook the Ground Beef: Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and break it apart with a spoon. Cook until no longer pink, stirring occasionally. Drain any excess fat. (Pro tip: While the meat cooks, you can start prepping the biscuit dough!)
- Prepare the Biscuit Dough: In a mixing bowl, combine the biscuit mix and water. Mix until well blended—using your hands works best for getting it just right. Spray a 9×13 casserole dish with cooking spray and press the dough into the dish, spreading it evenly. Bake in the preheated oven for 5-8 minutes, or until lightly golden. Set aside, but keep the oven on!
- Cook the Vegetables: Add the chopped onions and red bell pepper to the skillet with the cooked ground beef. Stir and cook for about 4 minutes. Add the taco seasoning and mix well. Remove from heat.
- Assemble the Layers: Spread the cooked ground beef mixture evenly over the baked biscuit layer.
- Prepare the Sour Cream Layer: In a medium bowl, combine sour cream, mayonnaise, green chiles, ¾ cup shredded cheese, and garlic powder. Mix until smooth. Spread this mixture over the ground beef layer.
- Add Salsa and Cheese: Dot the top with small spoonfuls of salsa (no need to spread it out). Sprinkle the remaining shredded cheese evenly over the top.
- Bake: Place the casserole back in the oven, uncovered, and bake for 30 minutes, or until hot and bubbly.
Pro Tips for Making the Recipe
Here are a few tips to make this recipe even better:
- Use lean ground beef to keep it healthier without sacrificing flavor.
- Customize the heat level by using hot salsa or adding diced jalapeños.
- For an extra crispy top, broil for 1-2 minutes at the end of baking time.
How to Serve
This casserole is perfect on its own, but here are a few ideas to round out the meal:
- Serve with a fresh green salad or roasted vegetables.
- Offer tortilla chips or warm flour tortillas on the side.
- Add a dollop of sour cream or extra salsa on top for extra flavor.
If you’re looking for more delicious, quick family dinners, be sure to check out my recipes for Cheesy Ranch Potatoes and Smoked Sausage and Texas Roadhouse Smothered Chicken. Your taste buds will thank you!
Make Ahead and Storage
Need to prep ahead? You can assemble the casserole up to a day in advance and store it in the fridge until baking. Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven or microwave.
There you have it—a quick, easy, and mouthwatering meal that’s perfect for any occasion. Let me know in the comments how you customize it to make it your own!
Cattle Drive Casserole
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat the oven to 350℉.
- Cook the ground beef in a skillet over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it apart. Drain excess fat.
- Prepare the biscuit dough with biscuit mix and water. Press into a greased casserole dish and bake for 5-8 minutes until set.
- Cook onions and bell pepper with the ground beef, then stir in taco seasoning.
- Layer the beef mixture over the biscuit crust. Spread the sour cream mixture on top, followed by salsa and remaining cheese.
- Bake uncovered for 30 minutes, or until hot and bubbly.