Introduction
Ah, the Cattle Drive Casserole, a dish that harkens back to the rugged days of the Old West, where the only things as hardy as the people were the meals they ate. This isn’t just any dinner—it’s a journey. A journey that promises the taste of adventure and the satisfaction of a well-earned meal at the end of a long day. So, buckle up, partner, because we’re about to take your taste buds on a wild ride!
Ingredients
In the spirit of those grand old cattle drives, our casserole requires robust and flavorful ingredients:
- 1 ½ pounds ground beef
- 1 onion, minced
- 1 taco seasoning packet
- ½ cup sour cream
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese, divided
- ½ cup shredded pepper jack cheese, divided
- One 4-ounce can diced green chilies, drained
- 2 cups Bisquick
- 1 cup water
Direction
Let’s get down to the nitty-gritty:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F. Like gathering the cattle at dawn, this is where our journey begins.
- In a skillet, brown the ground beef and onion until fully cooked. Think of it as rounding up the herd.
- Stir in the taco seasoning and remove from heat. Just like settling the dust after a long drive.
- In a separate bowl, mix the sour cream, mayonnaise, half of both cheeses, and green chilies. This mixture is as crucial as a cool drink after a day under the hot sun.
- In another bowl, blend the Bisquick and water until smooth. This will form the base of our casserole, much like the foundation of a sturdy barn.
- Spread the Bisquick mixture in a greased baking dish. Pour the beef mixture over it, then top with the sour cream mixture. Finally, sprinkle the remaining cheese on top.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden. This is the homestretch, the last few miles before camp.
Notes
Ah, a few things to keep in mind, just as a cowboy remembers the trails:
- If the casserole seems too dry, a tad more water mixed into the Bisquick won’t hurt.
- Spice it up with additional taco seasoning or green chilies if you like it hot!
Serving and Storage Tips:
Serve this hearty dish hot, straight from the oven, much like serving tales of adventure around a campfire. Leftovers can be stored in the fridge, covered, for up to 3 days, ensuring the flavor of the trail lasts just a bit longer.
Nutrition details
- Serving: 1 portion
- Calories: Let’s just say it’s hearty.
- Carbohydrates: Enough for energy.
- Protein: Packed.
- Fat: It’s there.
- Saturated Fat: Yep.
- Cholesterol: Present.
- Sodium: To taste.
- Fiber: A bit.
- Sugar: Just a smidge.
- Vitamin: A dash.
- Calcium: For strong bones.
- Iron: To keep you going.
FAQs
- Can I use a different kind of meat? Absolutely! Feel free to substitute ground turkey or chicken if you prefer.
- Is it gluten-free? Not as is, but a gluten-free Bisquick alternative can easily make it so.
Conclusion
In the end, the Cattle Drive Casserole isn’t just a meal; it’s an experience. A reminder of simpler times, open skies, and the spirit of adventure that lies within us all. So next time you gather around the dinner table, remember the tales of those who rode before us, and enjoy a dish that’s as flavorful and hearty as the legacy of the cattle drive itself.
Prep Time: 20 minutes | Cooking Time: 35 minutes | Total Time: 55 minutes | Cuisine: American | Category: Dinner