Save to Pinterest This robust casserole captures the spirit of cattle drive campfire meals right in a cozy kitchen. Layers of savory ground beef, tender beans, sweet corn, tangy tomatoes, and plenty of cheese come together for a dish that always satisfies. Whenever friends gather for game night or I need a make-ahead family dinner, this is my reliable pick for full hearts and full stomachs.
My whole crew started calling this the round-up dinner because it fills up any group no matter the weather. One chilly evening after a long day, this recipe delivered cowboy comfort everyone loved.
Ingredients
- Ground beef: delivers hearty depth and savory flavor Choose fresh meat if possible for juicier texture
- Onion: gives sweetness and an aromatic base Seek firm and glossy onions for best results
- Garlic: adds punch and complexity Go for big cloves and mince just before cooking for the biggest flavor
- Pinto or kidney beans: provide substance and satisfying bite Use well-drained canned beans to avoid sogginess
- Corn: brings a pop of sweetness and a soft crunch Whole kernel or fresh cut both work well
- Diced tomatoes with green chiles: deliver tang and Southwestern heat Rotel or similar adds great zest
- Cheddar cheese: melts to a gooey topping Choose a block and shred fresh for creaminess
- Chili powder: layers in earthy warmth Opt for a good-quality blend with bright color
- Salt and pepper: round out the flavors Start with a little and adjust at the end
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare:
- Set your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit or 190 degrees Celsius Use this time to shred the cheese and prep all your vegetables
- Brown the Aromatics:
- Place a large skillet over medium-high heat Add the ground beef and break up well as it cooks with a spatula Mix in the diced onion and minced garlic Let everything cook together about 8 to 10 minutes so the onion becomes translucent and beef is no longer pink You want all the meat browned with no excess fat
- Combine the Fillings:
- Stir in the rinsed and drained beans corn and the can of diced tomatoes with green chiles Sprinkle in the chili powder salt and pepper Lower the heat and let the mixture simmer for five minutes so the flavors come together and liquid slightly thickens
- Layer the Casserole:
- Transfer the hot beef and bean mixture into a baking dish Spread it evenly with a spoon Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese all over the top covering edge to edge for a perfect cheesy crust
- Bake to Bubbly:
- Slide the casserole into your preheated oven Bake for fifteen to twenty minutes Watch as the cheese melts and bubbles and the top turns slightly golden brown
- Let It Rest and Serve:
- Remove casserole from the oven and allow it to rest five minutes before serving Letting it cool a bit makes neat slices This is the best time to scoop up the tempting aroma wafting through your kitchen
Save to Pinterest The corn always reminds me of childhood summers when we picked and shucked the sweetest ears right in the backyard That sweet pop paired with the rich beef has always made this a family favorite and I love that my kids now carry on the same tradition
Storage Tips
Let the casserole cool to room temperature before covering and refrigerating Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to four days A covered casserole dish works well so you can reheat in the oven for an easy second meal For freezing slice into servings and wrap well Once frozen the casserole keeps for up to two months
Ingredient Substitutions
Swap pinto or kidney beans with black beans or white beans for a different bite Ground turkey or chicken can lighten the dish without losing heartiness For a dairy free version use your favorite vegan cheese and check labels on canned goods Reduce sodium by using unsalted beans and tomatoes
Serving Suggestions
Serve with tortilla chips for easy dipping or spoon over steaming white rice A crisp salad with lime dressing balances the richness If you like more heat throw on pickled jalapenos or a drizzle of hot sauce Sour cream or avocado slices make tasty toppers especially for picky eaters
Cultural Notes
The cattle drive casserole borrows flavors from traditional Tex Mex cuisine blending meat beans corn and chiles These were staples of trail cooks feeding hungry cowhands with simple satisfying meals The baked cheese top is a modern comfort food touch that never fails in my kitchen
Seasonal Adaptations
For summer try adding fresh corn cut off the cob and garden sweet tomatoes When fall rolls in tuck in roasted bell peppers or butternut squash For spring brighten the casserole with a squeeze of lime or chopped cilantro
Save to Pinterest This is the kind of meal that brings everyone to the table and always leaves enough for a delicious lunch the next day. Simple, hearty, and timeless cowboy comfort in every slice.
Common Recipe Questions
- → Can I use a different type of bean?
Yes, black beans or kidney beans both work well for added texture and flavor variety.
- → Can I make this ahead of time?
Absolutely—assemble the casserole, refrigerate, then bake when ready to serve for fresh results.
- → What other cheeses can I use?
Monterey Jack, pepper jack, or a Mexican blend cheese all melt nicely and complement the dish.
- → How can I add more heat?
Stir in chopped jalapeños or use spicy diced tomatoes for extra kick.
- → Is this dish freezer friendly?
Yes, the assembled, unbaked casserole can be frozen and baked from frozen—just add extra baking time.