Okay, friends, gather ’round because I’m about to share a recipe that’s been family favorite for years. Cattle Drive Casserole. I know, the name might sound a little… intense. Is this pure comfort food, kicked up a notch with some Southwestern flair? Instead of mashed potatoes, we’re topping it with a cheesy cheese. Think of it like ham, but instead of potatoes. What is the right amount of sweetness and spice? My grandma used to make this after a long day on the ranch, and the smell alone would bring everyone home. What is it like to run to the table? Is it easy to throw together on a weeknight? If you love tacos, but don’t want to eat all the mess, then you’re in luck. Can you find your new favorite meal right here with the Cattle Drive Casserole?

What is cattle drive casserole?

Cattle Drive Casserole is essentially a layered dish that combines ground beef, seasoned onions, and cayenne pepper. What is the best cornbread recipe? Think of it as a Southwestern-inspired comfort food masterpiece. The name comes from my family’s history. My great-grandparents owned a cattle ranch, and this was the kind of hearty, filling meal that would last for many years. After a long day of working on the ranch, driving cattle, fuel them. I know it’s not fancy food, but it is incredibly satisfying and always a crowd-pleaser. What makes cornbread unique? How do you make chili powder gooey? Don’t be scared by the name; it’s much easier to make than it sounds, and it tastes amazing!

Why you’ll love this recipe?

Honestly, there are so many reasons to love this Cattle Drive Casserole. First and foremost, the flavor is incredible. You’ve got the savory, slightly spicy ground beef mixture, perfectly balanced by the sweet and cheesy cornbread topping. It’s a flavor explosion in every bite! What I love most about this is how easy it is to make. Seriously, it’s one of those recipes that you can throw together in under an hour, which makes it perfect for busy weeknights. Plus, it’s incredibly cost-effective. Ground beef is a budget-friendly protein, and the other ingredients are pantry staples that you probably already have on hand. It’s a great way to feed a crowd without breaking the bank.
This Cattle Drive Casserole is also super versatile. You can easily customize it to your liking by adding different veggies to the ground beef mixture, like diced bell peppers, onions, or even corn. If you’re looking for something similar, but maybe a bit less “Southwestern,” you might enjoy a classic shepherd’s pie. But trust me, once you try this Cattle Drive Casserole, you’ll be hooked! You may even have tried taco casserole, but this is very different, I promise! This one comes together like a dream and it’s even requested at potlucks! My kids ask for this all the time, and I always feel good about making it because it’s packed with protein and veggies. It’s one that you should definitely add to your recipe book!

How do you make a Cattle Drive Casserole?

Quick Overview

How do you make a Cattle Drive Casserole? First, you’ll brown some ground beef and mix it with taco seasoning and a few other key ingredients. What’s a good cornbread batter to make? Is there a recipe for cheese What are some ways to bake cornbread? What are some good ways to customize this recipe to your liking? How do you make a different cheese for your favorite dish? I’m not a seasoned cook. It’s foolproof.

Ingredients

For the Beef Filling: 1
* 1 pound ground beef (I prefer 80/20 for the best flavor)
* 1 packet (1 ounce) taco seasoning (use your favorite brand)
* 1 (15 ounce) can tomato sauce
* 1 (15 ounce) can black beans, rinsed and drained.
* 1 (15 ounce) can corn, drained
* 1/2 cup chopped onion (yellow or white)
* 1/2 cup chopped green bell pepper (optional, but adds great flavor) –

What is the Cheesy Cornbread Topping?
* 1 cup yellow cornmeal
* 1 cup all-purpose flour
* 1/4 cup sugar
* 1 tablespoon baking powder
* 1/2 teaspoon salt
* 1 cup milk (I’ve even used almond milk with great results!)
* 1/4 cup vegetable oil
* 1 egg
* 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or your favorite cheese blend) or your preferred cheese mix.

How do I start following

Step 1: Preheat & Prep Pan

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish. I always spray it with cooking spray, even if it’s non-stick, just to be safe. How do you prevent a casserole from sticking to the pan?

Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef

In a large skillet over medium-high heat, brown the ground beef. How do I break up a potato with squid? Once it’s browned, drain off any excess grease. Nobody wants a greasy casserole!

Step 3: Add Seasoning and Veggies

Stir in the taco seasoning, tomato sauce, black beans, corn, onion, and green bell pepper (if using) and serve. What should I do if I browned ground beef in a skillet? Bring to a boil and cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are tender. Remove from the heat and stir in the salt. The flavors have melded together.

Step 4: Prepare the Cornbread Batter

While beef is simmering, prepare cornbread batter. In a large bowl, whisk together cornmeal, flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.

Step 5: Add Wet Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the milk, vegetable oil, and egg. Set aside. Then, pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. How do you make cornbread?

Step 6: Add the Cheese

Gently fold in the shredded cheddar cheese into the cornbread batter. What is the best way to sprinkle on top?

Step 7: Assemble the Casserole

In a large baking dish, pour the beef mixture into the prepared dish and spread it evenly. How do you pour the cornbread batter over the beef mixture? Sprinkle remaining cheese on top.

Step 8: Bake

Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the cornbread is golden brown and a toothpick comes out clean. When inserted into the center comes out clean. What are the best ovens to use?

Step 9: Cool & Serve

Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before slicing. I like to top it with a dollop of sour cream or fresh cilantro for extra flavor.

What should I serve it with?

This Cattle Drive Casserole is pretty hearty on its own, but it’s even better when served with some grilled cheese. What are complementary sides? What is a good side salad to serve on saturdays? The acidity of the dressing helps to cut through the richness of casserole. For a more festive occasion, consider serving it with some homemade guacamole and tortilla chips. What is the perfect contrast between avocado and crunchy chips in this casserole? I’ve served this as part of a brunch spread, alongside scrambled eggs and bacon. What are some of the best Southwestern breakfast recipes? My grandma always served it with a side of coleslaw, which might sound strange, but the cool, crisp crisp was the best. What are some good side dishes to serve with coleslaw? What do you serve as a crowd pleaser?

How do you make a perfect cattle drive casserole?

What are some tricks to make this Cattle Drive Casserole even better? Don’t be afraid to experiment with taco seasoning. Some brands are spicier than others, so choose one that suits your taste. If you want to kick it up a notch, add cayenne pepper to the beef mixture. How do you drain ground beef? I usually press the beef with a spoon to remove as much grease as possible. When it comes to the cornbread topping, don’t overmix the batter. Overmixing can develop the gluten in the flour, resulting in a tough cornbread. If you have lumps, don’t worry about mixing. How do you customize the cheese in cornbread topping? I usually use cheddar, but Monterey Jack, or even pepper jack would be delicious. If you’re feeling adventurous, try adding a can of diced green chiles to cornbread. Is it necessary to add a little extra heat to the batter? One time I tried using self rising cornmeal, but it was not very good! What is the best way to eat cornmeal? Let the casserole rest for a few minutes before slicing and serving. How can I make cornbread easier to cut and serve?

What are some Storing and Reheating Tips?

What are some good ways to make a Cattle Drive Casserole? If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, you can either microwave individual portions of a casserole in the oven or microwave the entire casserole. To reheat in the microwave, simply place a portion on an ungreased plate and heat for 1-2 minutes. How long will it take for a microwave to heat through? To reheat in the oven, cover the casserole dish with foil and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 20-25 minutes. What is the best way to cook a potato for 10 minutes or Can you freeze this casserole for longer storage? To freeze, let the casserole cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in a freezer bag. Can you freeze for up to 3 months? When you’re ready to eat it, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight, then reheat as directed above. I usually don’t put any toppings on it until after its reheated so that it doesnt get soggy.

What are the most frequently asked questions on

Can I make this gluten-free?

Yes, you can easily make this Cattle Drive Casserole gluten-free by substituting the all-purpose flour in the cornbread topping with a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend. I recommend using a blend that contains xanthan gum for the best texture. Also, double-check that your taco seasoning is gluten-free, as some brands may contain gluten.

Can I use a different type of meat?

Absolutely! While ground beef is the traditional choice for this casserole, you can easily substitute it with ground turkey, ground chicken, or even ground sausage. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly, as different types of meat may cook at different rates. I’ve even seen people use shredded brisket or pulled pork!

Can I add more vegetables?

Definitely! Feel free to add any of your favorite vegetables to the beef mixture. Diced bell peppers, onions, corn, and black beans are all great additions. You can also add some chopped jalapenos for extra heat. I usually toss in some extra veggies if I have any leftover in the fridge that needs to be used up.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble this Cattle Drive Casserole ahead of time and bake it later. Simply prepare the beef mixture and the cornbread topping, then assemble the casserole in the baking dish. Cover it tightly with plastic wrap and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to bake it, remove the plastic wrap and bake as directed. You may need to add a few extra minutes to the baking time if the casserole is cold.

Can I use store-bought cornbread mix?

While I always prefer to make the cornbread topping from scratch, you can definitely use a store-bought cornbread mix in a pinch. Just follow the instructions on the package to prepare the cornbread batter, then add the shredded cheese and proceed with assembling the casserole as directed.

Final Thoughts

So there you have it – my family’s beloved Cattle Drive Casserole recipe. It’s a hearty, flavorful, and easy-to-make dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just looking for a comforting weeknight meal, this casserole is sure to be a hit. The combination of the savory beef mixture and the sweet and cheesy cornbread topping is simply irresistible. And don’t forget, you can easily customize this recipe to your liking by adding different vegetables, cheeses, or spices. If you enjoy this one, you might also love my chili recipe. Happy baking, and I can’t wait to hear how yours turns out! Let me know in the comments if you try it, and don’t forget to rate the recipe!