Cattle Drive Casserole

When I first discovered the Cattle Drive Casserole, I was instantly reminded of rustic family dinners that bring everyone together at the table. Growing up, hearty casseroles were always a symbol of comfort, and this dish feels like a warm hug straight from the oven. Its bold flavors, tender layers, and Tex-Mex twist create a meal that is both nostalgic and exciting. Every bite is rich, satisfying, and packed with a combination of textures that make it unforgettable.

What I love most about this casserole is how it takes a simple ground beef base and transforms it into something much more special. The biscuit layer adds a soft and slightly golden foundation, while the seasoned beef, vegetables, and creamy layers on top create harmony in every slice. The finishing touch of salsa and melted cheese ties everything together, making it impossible to resist.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Versatile
This casserole is perfect for weeknights, family gatherings, or potlucks. You can customize the filling to your taste by adding different vegetables, adjusting the spice level, or even switching up the cheese blend. It works equally well for lunch or dinner, and the leftovers are just as delicious the next day.

Budget-Friendly
With everyday pantry staples like biscuit mix, ground beef, onions, and peppers, this recipe doesn’t require a big investment. You can feed a crowd without breaking the bank, and the portions are generous enough to keep everyone satisfied.

Comforting and Crowd-Pleasing
The layers of beef, sour cream, and cheese bring together flavors that almost everyone loves. It’s hearty, warming, and designed to fill hungry appetites. Plus, the casserole presentation makes it easy to serve at the table or take along to gatherings.

Ingredients for Cattle Drive Casserole

• 1.5 pounds Lean Ground Beef

• 1 Red Bell Pepper, seeded, chopped

• 1 Yellow Onion, chopped

• 1 ounce Taco Seasoning Mix

• 2 ½ cups Biscuit Mix (like Bisquick)

• 1 cup Water

• Cooking Spray (like Pam)

• ½ cup Sour Cream

• ½ cup Mayonnaise

• 4 ounces Diced Green Chiles, drained

• 1 ½ cups Cheddar Cheese, Fiesta Blend, shredded, divided

• 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder

• ½ cup Salsa, mild

  How to Make Cattle Drive Casserole

  Making this casserole is a straightforward process, yet the results are rich and deeply satisfying. The layers build flavor upon flavor, and the steps are easy to follow even on a busy evening. Once baked, the casserole delivers that perfect mix of creamy, cheesy, and savory that keeps everyone asking for seconds.

  Step-by-Step Instructions for Making

  Step 1: Preheat the Oven
  Start by setting your oven to 350℉. This ensures the base layer and the final casserole bake evenly and reach that perfect golden finish.

  Step 2: Cook the Ground Beef
  Place a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the lean ground beef and break it apart using a spoon. Stir and cook until the meat is no longer pink. Drain off any excess fat to keep the casserole light and flavorful. While the beef cooks, you can begin preparing the biscuit dough.

  Step 3: Prepare the Biscuit Base
  In a mixing bowl, combine the biscuit mix and water. Stir until well blended, using your hands if needed for even mixing. Spray a 9×13-inch casserole dish with cooking spray and press the dough into the dish, making sure it spreads out to the edges. Bake the dough in the oven for 5–8 minutes, just until lightly golden and set. Remove it from the oven but keep the heat on.

  Step 4: Add Vegetables and Seasoning
  Once the beef is cooked, add the chopped onions and red bell pepper directly into the skillet. Stir and let them cook for around 4 minutes until softened. Sprinkle in the taco seasoning mix and stir to coat the meat and vegetables evenly. Remove from the heat.

  Step 5: Assemble the Layers
  Take the baked biscuit crust and spread the seasoned beef mixture evenly over it. This creates a hearty base for the creamy topping.

  Step 6: Make the Creamy Layer
  In a medium mixing bowl, combine the sour cream, mayonnaise, drained green chiles, ¾ cup of shredded cheese, and garlic powder. Mix well until smooth. Carefully spread this mixture over the beef layer, making sure to cover the surface evenly.

  Step 7: Add Salsa and Cheese
  Spoon small amounts of salsa over the creamy layer. There is no need to spread it out, as the flavors will blend while baking. Sprinkle the remaining shredded cheese evenly on top to create that irresistible golden crust.

  Step 8: Bake to Finish
  Place the casserole dish back in the oven, uncovered, and bake for about 30 minutes. The cheese should be melted, bubbly, and slightly golden. The casserole will be piping hot and ready to serve.

  Quick and Easy

  The recipe comes together quickly since most of the ingredients are pantry staples. Preparing the biscuit base while the beef cooks saves time and makes the process smooth.

  Customizable

  You can adjust the spice level by choosing mild, medium, or hot salsa. Add extra vegetables like corn or zucchini if you want more texture. You can also swap the cheese blend for Monterey Jack or mozzarella for a different flavor twist.

  Crowd-Pleasing

  This dish is designed for sharing. The 9×13-inch size easily feeds a family or a small group of friends. It’s a perfect choice for weeknight meals, potlucks, or casual get-togethers where you want something comforting and satisfying without a complicated prep.

  FAQs

  Can I make Cattle Drive Casserole ahead of time?
  Yes, you can prepare the layers in advance, cover the dish, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. When ready, bake it as directed, adding a few extra minutes if it is chilled.

  Can I freeze this casserole?
  Absolutely. Once baked and cooled, you can freeze individual portions or the entire dish. Wrap it tightly with foil or place it in an airtight container. Reheat in the oven until hot and bubbly.

  What substitutions can I use for the biscuit mix?
  If you don’t have a boxed biscuit mix, you can make your own using flour, baking powder, butter, and salt. This gives a similar texture and works just as well.

  Is there a way to make this casserole lighter?
  You can use light sour cream, reduced-fat cheese, or substitute Greek yogurt for part of the mayonnaise. It will still taste creamy and flavorful.

  Can I add extra toppings?
  Yes, after baking, you can top the casserole with fresh cilantro, chopped green onions, or sliced jalapeños for extra flavor and color.

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  Cattle Drive Casserole

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  Cattle Drive Casserole is a hearty, flavorful layered dish that combines seasoned beef, vegetables, and a creamy, cheesy topping over a golden biscuit crust. It’s comforting, easy to prepare, and perfect for feeding a hungry family or serving at gatherings.

  • Total Time: 60 minutes
  • Yield: 6–8 servings 1x

  Ingredients

  Scale 1x2x3x

  1.5 pounds Lean Ground Beef

  1 Red Bell Pepper, seeded, chopped

  1 Yellow Onion, chopped

  1 ounce Taco Seasoning Mix

  2 ½ cups Biscuit Mix (like Bisquick)

  1 cup Water

  Cooking Spray (like Pam)

  ½ cup Sour Cream

  ½ cup Mayonnaise

  4 ounces Diced Green Chiles, drained

  1 ½ cups Cheddar Cheese, Fiesta Blend, shredded, divided

  1 teaspoon Garlic Powder

  ½ cup Salsa, mild

  Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

  Instructions

  • Preheat the oven to 350℉.

  • Heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and break it apart with a spoon. Cook until no longer pink, stirring occasionally. Drain off excess fat.

  • In a mixing bowl, combine biscuit mix and water. Stir until well blended. Spray a 9×13-inch casserole dish with cooking spray. Press dough into the dish and spread evenly to the edges. Bake for 5–8 minutes until set and lightly golden. Remove from oven, keeping oven on.

  • Add chopped onion and red bell pepper to the cooked beef. Stir and cook for 4 minutes. Add taco seasoning and mix well. Remove from heat.

  • Spread the beef mixture evenly over the baked biscuit base.

  • In a medium bowl, mix sour cream, mayonnaise, drained green chiles, ¾ cup shredded cheese, and garlic powder until smooth. Spread this mixture carefully over the beef layer.

  • Spoon salsa in small amounts over the creamy layer. Sprinkle the remaining shredded cheese evenly on top.

  • Bake uncovered for 30 minutes, until the casserole is hot, bubbly, and golden.

  Notes

  • Add extra vegetables like corn or zucchini for more flavor.

  • Swap the cheese blend for Monterey Jack or mozzarella if preferred.

  • Top with fresh cilantro, jalapeños, or green onions after baking for extra freshness.

  • Author: Layla
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 40 minutes