Name: Cattle Drive Casserole
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 1 h
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1.5 pounds lean ground beef; 1 red bell pepper, chopped; 1 yellow onion, chopped; 1 ounce taco seasoning mix; 2 ½ cups biscuit mix; 1 cup water; Cooking spray; ½ cup sour cream; ½ cup mayonnaise; 4 ounces diced green chiles, drained; 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; ½ cup mild salsa

Jump to Recipe

Cattle Drive Casserole brings bold Western flavor straight to your dinner table. This layered dish combines seasoned Ground Beef, tender Veggies, creamy filling, salsa, and melted cheese over a golden Biscuit Crust. As a true Comfort Food classic, it delivers rich flavor and satisfying texture in every bite. Whether you need a weeknight dinner or a crowd-pleasing potluck option, Cattle Drive Casserole offers a warm, filling meal that feels both nostalgic and exciting.

Story

Cattle Drive Casserole always reminds me of large family dinners where everyone gathered around the table waiting for something hearty and filling. The name alone paints a picture of rustic ranch cooking, where simple ingredients come together to create bold flavor. This recipe embraces that same spirit while adding a Tex-Mex twist that makes Cattle Drive Casserole stand out.

What makes Cattle Drive Casserole special is its layered structure. First comes the soft yet sturdy biscuit base. Then you add seasoned ground beef mixed with peppers and onions. After that, a creamy, cheesy topping brings balance and richness. Finally, salsa and more cheese finish it off. Because of these layers, every forkful of Cattle Drive Casserole delivers texture and flavor all at once.

I love preparing Cattle Drive Casserole when I need something reliable and filling. It uses pantry staples, cooks in one dish, and satisfies even the hungriest appetites. If you enjoy bold flavors, melted cheese, and golden crust, this recipe deserves a spot in your rotation.

Ingredients

1.5 pounds lean ground beef
1 red bell pepper, seeded and chopped
1 yellow onion, chopped
1 ounce taco seasoning mix
2 ½ cups biscuit mix (such as Bisquick)
1 cup water
Cooking spray
½ cup sour cream
½ cup mayonnaise
4 ounces diced green chiles, drained
1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese, Fiesta blend, divided
1 teaspoon garlic powder
½ cup mild salsa

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparing the Ingredients

Preheat your oven to 350°F so it reaches the proper temperature before baking. Chop the onion and red bell pepper into even pieces to promote consistent cooking. Drain the diced green chiles thoroughly to prevent excess moisture from affecting the casserole layers.

In a medium mixing bowl, combine the biscuit mix and water. Stir until fully blended, using your hands if needed for even mixing. Spray a 9 x 13-inch casserole dish with cooking spray. Press the dough evenly into the dish, spreading it all the way to the edges. Bake the crust for 5 to 8 minutes until lightly golden and set. Remove from the oven but keep the oven on.

Cooking Instructions

Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the lean ground beef and break it apart with a spoon. Cook until no longer pink, stirring occasionally. Drain any excess fat to keep the casserole from becoming greasy.

Add the chopped onion and red bell pepper directly into the skillet with the cooked beef. Stir and cook for about 4 minutes until the vegetables soften. Sprinkle in the taco seasoning mix and stir thoroughly to coat the meat and vegetables evenly. Remove the skillet from heat.

Spread the beef and vegetable mixture evenly over the partially baked biscuit crust. In a separate mixing bowl, combine sour cream, mayonnaise, drained green chiles, ¾ cup shredded cheese, and garlic powder. Stir until smooth and creamy. Carefully spread this mixture over the beef layer.

Drop small spoonfuls of salsa across the top without spreading it fully. Sprinkle the remaining shredded cheese evenly over everything. Place the casserole back into the oven uncovered. Bake for 30 minutes until hot, bubbly, and fully heated through. Let it rest for several minutes before slicing to help the layers set.

Tips for Perfect Results

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoid underbaking the biscuit crust during the first bake. If the crust stays too soft, it may absorb excess moisture and become soggy. Also, drain the cooked ground beef well before layering to prevent greasy texture.

Do not overspread the salsa. Small spoonfuls create pockets of flavor without overwhelming the creamy layer. Finally, resist the urge to cut into the casserole immediately. Allowing it to rest helps maintain clean slices and structured layers.

Pro Tips for Better Flavor

For deeper flavor, brown the ground beef until slightly caramelized before adding vegetables. You can also add a pinch of smoked paprika for subtle smokiness. If you prefer more heat, swap mild salsa for medium or hot varieties.

Shred cheese fresh from the block for smoother melting. Pre-shredded cheese often contains anti-caking agents that affect texture. These small adjustments elevate the final dish while keeping preparation simple.

Serving and Storage

How to Serve

Serve Cattle Drive Casserole warm with a crisp green salad to balance the richness. You can also add sliced avocado or fresh cilantro on top for brightness. Because this dish already combines protein, vegetables, and bread, it works beautifully as a complete meal on its own.

For gatherings, cut into even squares and serve directly from the casserole dish. The layered presentation looks inviting and highlights the golden biscuit crust.

How to Store Leftovers

Allow leftovers to cool completely before storing. Place portions in airtight containers and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Reheat individual servings in the microwave or warm larger portions in a 325°F oven until heated through.

If you plan to freeze, wrap tightly and store for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating to maintain texture and flavor.

Conclusion

Cattle Drive Casserole delivers bold flavor, creamy texture, and hearty satisfaction in one simple dish. With its golden biscuit base, seasoned beef filling, and cheesy topping, it captures everything you want in true comfort food. Because it uses accessible ingredients and straightforward steps, you can prepare it confidently any night of the week. Try this recipe once, and it may quickly become a dependable favorite in your kitchen.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make Cattle Drive Casserole ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the casserole a day in advance and refrigerate it before the final bake. When ready to cook, allow it to sit at room temperature for about 20 minutes before placing it in the oven.

Can I substitute the ground beef?

You can replace ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option. Keep in mind that leaner meats may require a little extra seasoning to maintain bold flavor.

Can I add more vegetables?

Absolutely. Corn or black beans blend well with the existing ingredients. Just avoid adding overly watery vegetables, which could affect the structure of the casserole.