Cozy up with this hearty and satisfying Cowboy Casserole for Two—an irresistible comfort food classic scaled down perfectly for an intimate dinner. Featuring layers of savory ground beef seasoned with smoked paprika, creamy mushroom and sour cream sauce, a crispy golden tater tot topping, and melty cheddar cheese, this casserole delivers big, bold flavors in every bite. It's quick to prepare in just 10 minutes, with a simple oven-baked finish that makes cleanup a breeze. Perfect for a cozy date night or a warm and filling weeknight meal, this easy casserole recipe is tailored for small servings without sacrificing flavor. Don't miss this comforting twist on a classic tater tot casserole that's as fun to make as it is to eat!
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
In a medium skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
Add the ground beef to the skillet and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spatula. Stir in minced garlic, salt, pepper, and smoked paprika, and cook for an additional minute.
Remove the skillet from heat and stir in cream of mushroom soup and sour cream until well combined. Set aside.
In a small baking dish (about 8x8 inches or similar size), spread the beef mixture evenly across the bottom.
Top the mixture with frozen tater tots, arranging them in a single layer.
Bake the casserole in the preheated oven for 25 minutes, until the tater tots are crisp and lightly golden.
Remove the dish from the oven and sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the tater tots.
Return the casserole to the oven and bake for an additional 5-7 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Let the casserole cool for 5 minutes before serving. Enjoy your hearty Cowboy Casserole for Two!
Calories |
1878 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 136.8 g | 175% | |
| Saturated Fat | 57.7 g | 288% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 12.2 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 337 mg | 112% | |
| Sodium | 3257 mg | 142% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 93.8 g | 34% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 8.4 g | 30% | |
| Total Sugars | 12.3 g | ||
| Protein | 78.9 g | 158% | |
| Vitamin D | 1.1 mcg | 5% | |
| Calcium | 1097 mg | 84% | |
| Iron | 7.1 mg | 39% | |
| Potassium | 1602 mg | 34% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.