Description
Cowboy in a Window Casserole is the ultimate hearty, comforting dinner—layers of seasoned ground beef, smoky bacon, sweet corn, zesty tomatoes, melty cheese, and crispy tater tots. This bold, flavor-packed bake comes together easily in one dish and is a guaranteed family favorite. Perfect for weeknights or weekend gatherings!
Ingredients
1½ lbs ground beef
6 strips bacon, cooked and crumbled
1 medium onion, diced
1 can (15 oz) sweet corn, drained
1 can (10 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies (like Rotel)
1½ cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided
½ tsp garlic powder
½ tsp smoked paprika
Salt and black pepper, to taste
1 bag (28–32 oz) frozen tater tots
Optional garnish: chopped parsley or green onion
Instructions
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
Cook the beef and onions in a large skillet over medium heat until browned. Drain any excess grease.
Season the beef mixture with garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir in corn, diced tomatoes with green chilies, and the cooked crumbled bacon. Cook for 2–3 minutes until everything is heated through.
Transfer the mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
Sprinkle 1 cup of shredded cheddar over the beef mixture.
Top with tater tots, spreading them evenly across the surface.
Bake uncovered for 35–40 minutes, or until the tots are golden and crispy.
Add remaining ½ cup of cheese over the top, then return to the oven for an additional 5 minutes, or until melted and bubbly.
Let cool for 5–10 minutes. Garnish with chopped parsley or green onions if desired. Serve and enjoy!
Notes
For a spicier twist, use pepper jack cheese or add chopped jalapeños to the beef mixture.
Ground turkey or chicken can be swapped in for the beef—just be sure to season well.
Want to sneak in more veggies? Bell peppers, black beans, or frozen peas all work beautifully here.
Leftovers keep well in the fridge for up to 4 days, and it’s freezer-friendly too!
Reheat in the oven to maintain that crispy tater tot top—it’s worth the extra few minutes!