Trailblazer Casserole
Western-Style Casserole
This comforting, crowd-friendly dish brings together seasoned ground beef, hearty beans, sweet corn, and a creamy sauce, all finished with a layer of crispy, golden tater tots. It’s simple to assemble and packed with flavor—perfect for family meals, potlucks, or whenever you need a reliable, satisfying recipe.
Ingredients for the Western-Style Casserole
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Lean ground beef | 1 pound |
| Garlic, minced | 2 cloves |
| Onion, finely chopped | 1 |
| Corn, drained (15 oz can) | 1 can |
| Black beans, drained and rinsed (15 oz can) | 1 can |
| Cream of mushroom soup (10.5 oz can) | 1 can |
| Shredded Colby Cheddar cheese blend | 1 cup |
| Skim milk | 1/2 cup |
| Sour cream | 1/2 cup |
| Frozen tater tots (32 oz bag) | 1 bag |
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray to prevent sticking and make serving easier.
Step 2: Cook the Beef Mixture
In a large skillet over medium-high heat, cook the ground beef for about 5–7 minutes until browned. Drain off any excess fat.
Add the garlic and onion, then sauté for another 3–4 minutes until the onion softens and becomes fragrant.
Step 3: Combine the Filling
Transfer the beef mixture to a large bowl. Add the corn, black beans, cream of mushroom soup, shredded cheese, milk, and sour cream. Mix everything together until well combined.
Step 4: Assemble the Base
Spread the mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish, creating an even layer for consistent cooking.
Step 5: Add the Topping
Arrange the frozen tater tots in a single layer over the top of the mixture.
Step 6: Bake
Place the dish in the oven and bake for 45–50 minutes, or until the tater tots are golden brown and the casserole is bubbling around the edges.
Step 7: Serve
Let the casserole rest for a few minutes before serving so it can set properly. Garnish with chopped parsley or green onions if desired for a fresh finish.
