Why You’ll Love Cattle Drive Casserole Recipe
This casserole is the definition of comfort food—savory, cheesy, and packed with flavor. With just a handful of pantry staples and minimal prep, it’s easy to put together on a busy evening. The layers of seasoned meat, creamy cheese mixture, and fluffy biscuit base create a perfectly balanced dish the whole family will enjoy. Plus, it reheats beautifully, making it great for leftovers.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
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Ground beef
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Minced onion
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Taco seasoning
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Sour cream
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Mayonnaise
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Shredded cheddar cheese
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Shredded pepper jack cheese
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Diced green chilies
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Bisquick
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Water
Directions
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Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
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In a nonstick skillet over medium-high heat, cook the ground beef with taco seasoning until fully browned.
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Add the minced onion and drained diced green chilies to the skillet. Continue cooking until the onion is tender and lightly browned, about 5 minutes.
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In a separate bowl, mix the sour cream, mayonnaise, and half of each shredded cheese (cheddar and pepper jack). Set aside.
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In another bowl, combine the Bisquick and water, stirring until a soft dough forms.
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Press the dough into a greased 9×13-inch casserole dish to form the base layer.
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Spread the beef mixture evenly over the dough.
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Layer the sour cream mixture on top of the beef.
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Sprinkle the remaining shredded cheddar and pepper jack cheese over the top.
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Bake for 30 minutes or until the top is golden and bubbly.
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Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
Servings and timing
This recipe serves approximately 6 to 8 people.
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 30 minutes
Total time: 45 minutes
Variations
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Spicy Kick: Add chopped jalapeños or use hot taco seasoning for extra heat.
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Different Cheeses: Swap in Monterey Jack or Colby for a milder or richer flavor.
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Veggie Additions: Add bell peppers, corn, or black beans for added texture and nutrition.
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Low-Carb Option: Use a low-carb biscuit mix alternative in place of Bisquick.
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Turkey Swap: Substitute ground turkey or chicken for the beef for a leaner version.
Storage/Reheating
Let the casserole cool completely before storing.
Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Freezer: Freeze portions in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months.
To reheat: Warm in the oven at 350°F until heated through, or microwave individual servings for 1–2 minutes.
FAQs
What is Cattle Drive Casserole?
Cattle Drive Casserole is a layered dish featuring seasoned ground beef, cheese, and a biscuit-like base, baked to golden perfection.
Can I make it ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the casserole a day in advance and bake it when you’re ready to serve.
What can I use instead of Bisquick?
You can use any biscuit mix or make a homemade version using flour, baking powder, salt, and shortening.
Is this casserole spicy?
It has a mild heat from the taco seasoning and pepper jack cheese. You can adjust the spice level to your preference.
Can I freeze Cattle Drive Casserole?
Yes, it freezes well. Wrap it tightly and freeze for up to 2 months.
What sides go well with this casserole?
A simple green salad, roasted vegetables, or Mexican-style rice make great side dishes.
Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
Absolutely. Ground turkey works just as well and is a leaner option.
How do I know when it’s done baking?
The top should be golden brown and bubbly. You can also insert a toothpick into the biscuit layer to check for doneness.
Can I make it dairy-free?
Yes, by using dairy-free cheese and substituting the sour cream and mayonnaise with plant-based alternatives.
How do I prevent the bottom from getting soggy?
Ensure the meat mixture is well-drained and avoid overmixing the Bisquick dough to keep it light and fluffy.
Conclusion
Cattle Drive Casserole is the perfect solution for busy nights when you need something comforting and satisfying. With its simple layers and rich flavors, it’s bound to become a family favorite. Whether you stick to the classic version or try one of the tasty variations, this casserole delivers every time.
