Description
Cattle Drive Casserole is a flavorful Tex-Mex baked dish featuring seasoned ground beef layered over a buttery crescent roll crust, creamy sour cream and cream cheese mixture, diced tomatoes with green chilies, and melted cheddar cheese. This easy-to-make casserole combines classic taco flavors in a comforting, hearty bake perfect for family dinners or gatherings.
Ingredients
Scale
Beef Mixture
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1/2 cup chopped onion
- 1/2 cup chopped green bell pepper
- 1 packet taco seasoning mix
- 1/4 cup water
Crust and Topping
- 1 (8 oz) can refrigerated crescent roll dough
- 1 (8 oz) package cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 (10 oz) can diced tomatoes with green chilies, drained
Seasoning and Garnish
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Chopped green onions or fresh cilantro for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the beef mixture: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef along with the chopped onion and green bell pepper until the beef is fully browned and the vegetables have softened. Drain any excess fat from the skillet.
- Season the beef: Stir in the taco seasoning mix and water. Simmer the mixture for 2 to 3 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly, then remove from heat.
- Preheat the oven and prepare the crust: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. Unroll the crescent roll dough and press it evenly into the bottom of the baking dish, pinching the seams together to seal the crust.
- Make the cream cheese layer: In a small bowl, combine the softened cream cheese and sour cream until smooth and creamy. Spread this mixture evenly over the crescent roll crust in the baking dish.
- Assemble the casserole: Spread the seasoned beef mixture evenly over the cream cheese layer. Then, add the drained diced tomatoes with green chilies on top. Finally, sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the entire casserole.
- Bake the casserole: Place the assembled casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the crust turns golden brown and the cheese on top is melted and bubbly.
- Garnish and serve: Once baked, remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool slightly. Garnish with chopped green onions or fresh cilantro if desired. Serve warm.
Notes
- You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for the beef to make a lighter version.
- Add black olives or jalapeños to the beef mixture for extra flavor and a spicy kick.
- Serve the casserole with sides like salsa, guacamole, or a simple green salad for a complete meal.
