Description
Cattle Drive Casserole is a hearty, layered dish combining a quick biscuit base with seasoned ground beef, creamy cheese layers, and a melty cheddar topping. Perfect for a comforting family dinner, this casserole delivers a savory blend of taco spices and creamy textures baked to golden perfection.
Ingredients
Biscuit Base
- 1 box Cheddar Bay biscuit mix
- ¾ cup milk
Beef Mixture
- 1 ½ lb lean ground beef
- 1 large onion, diced
- ¼ cup water
- 1 packet taco seasoning
- 1 can diced tomatoes
Cheese Mixture
- 1 cup Colby jack cheese, shredded
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- ½ cup sour cream
Topping
- 1 ½ cups cheddar cheese, shredded
- 2 tablespoons green onion, chopped
Instructions
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Dish: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Spray a 9 x 13-inch casserole dish with non-stick cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- Make Biscuit Base: In a mixing bowl, combine the Cheddar Bay biscuit mix, the enclosed seasoning packet from the mix, and ¾ cup of milk, stirring until smooth and well combined.
- Bake Biscuit Base: Spread the biscuit mixture evenly into the prepared casserole dish. Bake for 5 minutes to slightly set the base, creating a firm foundation for the filling.
- Brown Ground Beef: While the biscuit base is baking, heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the lean ground beef and diced onion, breaking up the beef as it cooks until browned and onions are soft.
- Drain Excess Grease: Once browned, drain any excess grease from the beef mixture to keep the casserole from becoming greasy.
- Add Taco Flavorings: Stir in the diced tomatoes, ¼ cup water, and taco seasoning packet into the browned beef. Mix thoroughly to ensure the beef is well-coated with the spices and flavors.
- Layer Beef Mixture: Remove the lightly baked biscuit base from the oven and spread the prepared beef mixture evenly on top.
- Prepare Cheese Layer: In a separate bowl, combine 1 cup shredded Colby jack cheese with ½ cup mayonnaise and ½ cup sour cream. Mix until smooth, then spread this creamy cheese mixture evenly over the beef layer in the casserole dish.
- Add Cheddar Topping: Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese on top of the layered casserole for a cheesy, golden crust.
- Bake Casserole: Return the casserole to the oven and bake for about 30 minutes or until the cheddar on top is melted, bubbly, and golden brown.
- Cool and Serve: Allow the casserole to cool for at least 10 minutes before slicing. Garnish with chopped green onions and serve warm for a delicious meal.
Notes
- Using lean ground beef helps reduce excess grease in the casserole.
- Allowing the casserole to cool before slicing helps it hold its shape better.
- You can substitute the Colby jack cheese with mozzarella or Monterey Jack if preferred.
- For added heat, consider mixing in chopped jalapeños with the beef mixture.
- Leftovers keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheat nicely in the oven.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
