Name: Cattle Drive Casserole
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 55 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 pound ground beef; 1 packet taco seasoning; 1 can (10 oz) Rotel tomatoes; 1/2 cup sour cream; 4 oz cream cheese; 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese; 1 box cornbread mix; 1/3 cup milk; 1 egg; 1 small onion, chopped

Hearty, comforting, and bold with flavor, Cattle Drive Casserole is the kind of recipe that brings everyone running to the dinner table. Think layers of seasoned ground beef, zesty tomatoes, creamy sour cream, and a golden cornbread topping that’s as satisfying as it is nostalgic. This is one of those dishes that tastes like a warm hug from the heartland.

Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or just want leftovers that reheat like a dream, this casserole delivers. It’s a one-pan meal with Southern roots and Tex-Mex flair that covers all the bases—protein, carbs, veggies, and lots of cheese. You might even call it a cowboy’s dream dinner.

Why You’ll Love This Cattle Drive Casserole

This casserole is made for weeknights when you need something filling without fuss. It’s layered with comforting textures, comes together with easy pantry staples, and bakes beautifully in under an hour. Each bite hits that balance of creamy, cheesy, and savory.

Plus, it’s endlessly adaptable. Want to go spicier? Toss in green chiles or chipotle powder. Need to sneak in veggies for the kids? Bell peppers and corn blend in seamlessly. It’s a dish that grows with you.

What Kind of Ground Beef Should I Use?

Go for lean ground beef, around 85% lean is ideal. It has enough fat to stay flavorful without making the casserole greasy. If you use fattier beef, just be sure to drain the excess before layering. You can also swap in ground turkey or even plant-based crumbles for a twist.

Ingredients for the Cattle Drive Casserole

Every ingredient in this dish plays a role in creating that rich, comforting bite. The layers of meat, sauce, and creamy topping make this casserole so special.

Ground beef
Taco seasoning
Rotel tomatoes
Sour cream
Cream cheese
Shredded cheddar cheese
Cornbread mix
Milk
Egg
Onion

How To Make the Cattle Drive Casserole

Step 1: Cook the Meat Base

Brown the ground beef in a skillet with chopped onion until cooked through. Drain off excess fat, then stir in the taco seasoning and Rotel tomatoes. Simmer for 5 minutes to let the flavors meld.

Step 2: Mix the Creamy Layer

In a separate bowl, blend sour cream and cream cheese until smooth. This creamy mixture adds a luscious layer that balances the bold meat filling.

Step 3: Assemble the Casserole

Preheat the oven to 350°F. In a baking dish, layer the beef mixture, then spread the cream layer on top. Sprinkle with shredded cheddar cheese for that irresistible gooey finish.

Step 4: Top with Cornbread

Prepare the cornbread mix with milk and egg as instructed on the package. Pour this over the layers in the dish. It will bake into a golden topping that ties everything together.

Step 5: Bake

Bake for about 35-40 minutes, or until the cornbread is set and golden brown. Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Serving and Storing This Hearty Casserole

This casserole feeds about 6 hungry people, making it great for family dinners or casual potlucks. It’s delicious right out of the oven but also makes fantastic leftovers. Store any extra portions in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. You can also freeze slices individually for a ready-to-reheat meal on busy days.

What to Serve With Cattle Drive Casserole?

Classic Green Salad

A simple crisp salad with a tangy vinaigrette helps cut through the richness.

Mexican Street Corn

Charred corn topped with cotija, lime, and chili powder complements the casserole’s Tex-Mex roots.

Jalapeño Cornbread Muffins

Double down on the cornbread love with a spicy, cheesy side.

Cilantro Lime Rice

Adds freshness and brightness that balances the creamy and cheesy filling.

Guacamole and Chips

Serve as a starter or alongside for a bit of crunch and creaminess.

Pickled Jalapeños

Adds a nice kick and acidic bite to contrast the casserole.

Black Beans

They’re hearty and simple—a perfect protein-packed side.

Fruit Salad

Something light and sweet to finish the meal off on a refreshing note.

Want More Casserole Ideas?

If cozy bakes like this one are your thing, check out some of these other popular recipes from the site:

Save This Recipe For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dinner board so you can come back to it any time.

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you add jalapeños or corn? Maybe tried ground turkey instead? I love hearing how you all put your own spin on these dishes.

Explore more comforting dinner inspiration on Janet Dishes on Pinterest and discover your new family favorites.

Conclusion

Cattle Drive Casserole is the kind of meal that keeps everyone coming back for seconds. It has everything you want in a weeknight dinner: hearty, flavorful, cheesy, and simple to make. Once you try it, you’ll be adding it to your monthly meal rotation without a doubt.