Cowboy Casserole

1. Serve and enjoy: Once the casserole is done, remove it from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows the casserole to firm up slightly, making it easier to cut into squares. Serve the Cowboy Casserole hot, straight from the baking dish, and enjoy with a side of sour cream, hot sauce, or a simple green salad. This dish is perfect for feeding a family or serving at a potluck, and it can be reheated in the oven or microwave if you have leftovers.

Notes

• If you prefer a spicier casserole, feel free to add some diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the beef mixture before assembling the casserole.
• For a vegetarian version, you can replace the ground beef with a plant-based protein, such as crumbled tofu or a meat alternative like Beyond Meat.
• Leftover casserole can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven, covering it loosely with foil to prevent the tater tots from getting soggy.
• If you want to make this dish in advance, assemble the casserole up to the point of baking, then cover and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, remove it from the fridge and add an extra 5-10 minutes to the baking time to ensure it heats through properly.