Cattle Drive Layered Casserole

Cattle Drive Casserole layers savory ground beef hearty biscuit crust creamy sauce and zesty toppings into a dish that captures all the comfort of a classic cowboy meal with crowd-pleasing Tex-Mex touches. This has been my go-to when feeding hungry friends after a big day outdoors—there is always a scramble for seconds.

When I first made this for a neighborhood potluck the whole pan disappeared so fast I barely got a slice. Now it is my staple for family game nights.

Ingredients

• Lean Ground Beef: around 1.5 pounds The backbone of the casserole Choose fresh bright beef with little excess fat for best texture

• Red Bell Pepper: brings sweet crunch Look for ones that are firm and richly colored

• Yellow Onion: adds aromatic depth Firm onions with dry papery skins always work well

• Taco Seasoning Mix: for that classic Tex-Mex flavor Check labels for spice level and use your favorite blend

• Biscuit Mix: like Bisquick creates the soft biscuit crust Go for a fresh mix to get the best lift

• Water: binds the biscuit dough Use cool clean water for mixing

• Cooking Spray: keeps everything from sticking A light coat means easy casserole removal

• Sour Cream: delivers creaminess Go full-fat for lush texture

• Mayonnaise: richens the creamy layer Choose mayonnaise with simple ingredients for best taste

• Diced Green Chiles: add mild heat Make sure they are well drained

• Fiesta Blend Cheddar Cheese: gives melty tang Freshly shredded cheese melts the best

• Garlic Powder: punches up flavor Pick a fresh spice jar for most aroma

• Salsa: mild for a pop of acid and sweetness Use a jarred salsa you love solo for best flavor

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prep the Oven:

Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F so everything cooks evenly from the start.

Brown the Beef:

Heat a large skillet over medium-high Add ground beef and use a spoon to break it apart Continue cooking until it loses its pink color and is lightly browned Stir occasionally for even cooking and drain any fat for a non-greasy base

Mix the Biscuit Dough:

Combine biscuit mix and water in a bowl Mix with a sturdy spoon or your hands to get a soft sticky dough Spray the casserole dish with cooking spray to prevent sticking Press dough evenly into the dish making sure it reaches the edges Bake for about five to eight minutes until just set and lightly golden Keep oven hot

Sauté the Vegetables:

Stir chopped onions and red bell pepper into the beef mixture Cook until softened and fragrant about four minutes Sprinkle taco seasoning over the mixture and mix thoroughly Remove skillet from heat to keep everything moist

Build the Layers:

Spoon the beef and vegetable mixture evenly over the biscuit crust Gently pat down to create a flat surface

Mix the Creamy Layer:

In a medium bowl blend sour cream mayonnaise drained chiles three fourths cup of cheese and garlic powder until very smooth Spread this mixture carefully over the beef layer to avoid mixing layers

Top with Salsa and Cheese:

Add dollops of salsa on the creamy layer No need to smooth it out just scatter it all over Sprinkle remaining shredded cheese evenly to cover every corner

Bake the Casserole:

Set the casserole uncovered in the oven Bake for thirty minutes until the top is golden and casserole is bubbling edges will be slightly crisp for best results

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My favorite ingredient for this casserole is that sharp shredded cheddar The cheese bubbles and browns on top making it totally irresistible My kids always hover as it comes out of the oven and dig in before it cools down

Storage Tips

Cattle Drive Casserole keeps well for up to three days in the refrigerator Just cool it completely then cover tightly and stash away For freezing slice into portions and wrap each in foil before placing in a freezer bag Thaw overnight and reheat gently covered in the oven

Smart Ingredient Swaps

You can swap ground turkey or chicken for beef and use whatever cheese you have on hand such as Monterey Jack or Colby If you want even more veggies add some frozen corn or black beans to the beef mixture

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Serving Suggestions

Serve big hearty squares with a crisp green salad or roasted corn on the cob It makes a great potluck dish because it stays warm and slices cleanly Top each serving with extra salsa or pickled jalapeños to bring up the heat

A Bit of History

Cattle Drive Casserole gets its name from the days when cowboys needed stick-to-your-ribs meals out on the trail This Tex-Mex inspired version brings the comfort of those hearty suppers into the modern home blending convenience with all that Old West charm

Recipe FAQs

→ What type of ground beef works best?

Lean ground beef is ideal for a rich flavor without excess grease. Drain fat for a perfect texture.

→ Can I use a different cheese variety?

Absolutely! Monterey Jack, pepper jack, or a cheddar blend all work beautifully for a melty topping.

→ What can I substitute for biscuit mix?

Homemade biscuit dough made with flour, baking powder, and butter is a great alternative to store-bought mix.

→ How should leftovers be stored?

Cool completely, cover tightly, and refrigerate for up to three days. Reheat individual portions as needed.

→ Can I add extra vegetables?

Corn, black beans, or chopped zucchini add flavor and texture. Sauté them with the onions and peppers.