The Cattle Drive Casserole is a hearty, comforting dish inspired by the rugged meals of the American West. Perfect for family dinners or gatherings, this casserole combines ground beef, vegetables, and a unique Bisquick biscuit layer, all topped with melted cheese. It's a versatile recipe that can be adapted for vegetarians and made healthier with a few simple substitutions.
1lbground beefor substitute for a vegetarian option
1medium onionchopped
1bell pepperchopped
1can10 oz tomatoes and chiles, drained
1cupshredded cheddar cheeseor low-fat alternative
1tspchili powder
1tspgarlic powder
1tspcumin
Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
Prepare the Biscuit Layer: Preheat oven to 375°F. Mix Bisquick and water until a soft dough forms. Press into the bottom of a greased 9x13 inch baking dish.
Brown the Beef: In a skillet, cook ground beef over medium heat until no pink remains. Drain excess fat.
Add Vegetables and Season: To the skillet, add onion, bell pepper, tomatoes and chiles, chili powder, garlic powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Cook until vegetables are just softened.
Assemble the Casserole: Spread the beef and vegetable mixture over the biscuit layer. Top with shredded cheese.
Bake: Cover with foil and bake for 15 minutes. Remove foil and bake for another 15 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and the edges are golden brown.
Serve: Let the casserole cool for 5 minutes before serving. Enjoy with your choice of sides.
Notes
Vegetarian Option: Substitute ground beef with a plant-based meat alternative or cooked lentils. Use vegetable broth to enhance the filling if needed.
Storing and Reheating: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven covered with foil at 350°F until warm throughout.
Doubling the Recipe: For larger gatherings, the recipe can be doubled. Use a larger baking dish or two standard dishes, adjusting the cooking time as needed to ensure the casserole is heated through.
Healthier Substitutions: Consider using lean ground turkey, low-fat dairy options, and increasing the vegetable content for a healthier version of this dish.