Nora
This hearty Cattle Drive Casserole is the ultimate comfort food for busy weeknights. Packed with savory ground beef, creamy mashed potatoes, melted cheese, and a medley of colorful veggies, it’s the kind of dish that brings everyone running to the dinner table. Every bite is rich, cheesy, and perfectly seasoned, making it a family favorite you’ll want to keep in your weekly rotation.
It’s not just delicious—it’s easy to make, too. With layers of seasoned beef, fluffy mashed potatoes, and gooey cheddar cheese, this casserole is a one-dish wonder that feeds a crowd without keeping you in the kitchen for hours. Perfect for potlucks, casual family dinners, or meal prep, this dish delivers comfort and convenience in every bite.
Why You’ll Love This Cattle Drive Casserole
- Family-Friendly Comfort Food: Kids and adults love its rich, cheesy layers.
- Perfect for Meal Prep: Make it ahead and bake when ready.
- Feeds a Crowd: Ideal for potlucks or family gatherings.
- Customizable: Swap in your favorite veggies or cheese blends.
- Budget-Friendly: Uses simple ingredients you likely already have.
What Kind of Cheese Works Best in Cattle Drive Casserole?
Sharp cheddar is the classic choice because it melts beautifully and adds that rich, tangy flavor we all crave in a casserole. However, you can experiment with Monterey Jack for extra creaminess or even pepper jack for a little kick. If you want a milder taste, a blend of cheddar and mozzarella also works wonderfully.
Ingredients for the Cattle Drive Casserole
Every ingredient in this casserole plays a crucial role in creating that comforting, layered flavor. The ground beef forms the hearty base, while the mashed potatoes bring creaminess and a smooth texture. Cheddar cheese adds a gooey, melty layer that ties everything together. Diced tomatoes and bell peppers introduce a pop of freshness, and a dollop of sour cream on top balances the richness perfectly.
- Ground beef – the savory, meaty base that carries the seasoning.
- Mashed potatoes – creamy and buttery, forming the soft bottom layer.
- Cheddar cheese – sharp and tangy, for that irresistible melted topping.
- Bell peppers (green and red) – add color, sweetness, and crunch.
- Diced tomatoes – juicy and slightly acidic to balance the richness.
- Sour cream – cool and creamy finishing touch.
- Onion & garlic – aromatic base that enhances the beef’s flavor.
- Salt, pepper, and chili powder – simple spices for depth and a hint of warmth.
How To Make the Cattle Drive Casserole
Step 1: Cook the Beef Filling
In a large skillet, cook ground beef with diced onion and garlic until browned. Drain excess fat, then stir in diced tomatoes, bell peppers, salt, pepper, and chili powder. Let it simmer for 5 minutes to blend the flavors.
Step 2: Prepare the Mashed Potato Layer
Use creamy homemade mashed potatoes or instant mash for convenience. Spread an even layer into a greased baking dish.
Step 3: Assemble the Casserole
Spoon the beef mixture over the mashed potatoes, spreading it evenly. Sprinkle generous amounts of cheddar cheese on top.
Step 4: Bake Until Bubbly
Bake at 350°F for 20-25 minutes or until the cheese is melted and golden brown.
Step 5: Top and Serve
Remove from the oven, let it cool slightly, then add a dollop of sour cream and a sprinkle of fresh parsley before serving.
Serving and Storing Cattle Drive Casserole
This casserole feeds about 6 to 8 people, making it perfect for family dinners or potluck gatherings. Serve it hot straight from the oven with a dollop of sour cream and a sprinkle of fresh parsley for presentation. If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through.
For longer storage, you can freeze the baked casserole for up to 2 months. Just wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
What to Serve With Cattle Drive Casserole?
1. Garlic Bread
The buttery, crispy edges of garlic bread pair beautifully with the creamy layers of the casserole.
2. Green Salad
A light, crisp salad with a tangy vinaigrette helps cut through the richness.
3. Roasted Vegetables
Carrots, zucchini, or broccoli roasted with olive oil and herbs add a fresh side.
4. Cornbread
Sweet, crumbly cornbread complements the savory beef and potatoes.
5. Coleslaw
Creamy coleslaw brings a refreshing crunch alongside the casserole.
6. Pickled Jalapeños
For those who like a spicy kick, these add a fun tangy bite.
7. Buttery Biscuits
Soft, flaky biscuits are perfect for soaking up every cheesy bite.
8. Fruit Salad
A bowl of fresh fruit adds a light, sweet contrast to the hearty meal.
Want More Casserole Ideas?
If you love this hearty Cattle Drive Casserole, you’ll probably enjoy these other comforting favorites:
- Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole – a creamy, cheesy twist on the classic dish.
- Doritos Chicken Casserole – a fun, crunchy, flavor-packed casserole.
- Crazy Good Chicken Pasta Casserole – rich, creamy, and perfect for pasta lovers.
- Hashbrown Breakfast Casserole – a morning favorite that works for dinner too.
- Sweet Potato Casserole – sweet, cozy, and perfect for holidays.
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And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you add extra cheese or spice it up with jalapeños? Did you swap the mashed potatoes for hashbrowns?
I love hearing how others make these recipes their own. Questions are welcome too—let’s help each other cook smarter.
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Cattle Drive Casserole
Equipment
- Large skillet
- Baking dish
Ingredients
Ingredients
- 450 g ground beef
- 3 cups mashed potatoes
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup diced bell peppers (green and red)
- 1 cup diced tomatoes
- 0.5 cup sour cream
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 0.5 teaspoon black pepper
- 0.5 teaspoon chili powder
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- In a large skillet, cook ground beef with diced onion and garlic until browned. Drain excess fat, then stir in diced tomatoes, bell peppers, salt, pepper, and chili powder. Simmer for 5 minutes.
- Spread creamy mashed potatoes into a greased baking dish.
- Spoon the beef mixture evenly over the mashed potatoes. Top generously with shredded cheddar cheese.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 20–25 minutes or until cheese is melted and golden.
- Remove from oven, let cool slightly, then garnish with sour cream and parsley before serving.