I can’t get enough of this Air Fryer Cowboy Casserole! It’s one of those dishes that brings all the cozy vibes without keeping you stuck in the kitchen for hours. Packed with tender ground beef, creamy cheese, and crispy tots, it’s the perfect meal to please a crowd or satisfy your comfort food cravings. Whether you’re making it for a family dinner, a weekend get-together, or just craving something hearty, this recipe has all the flavors you need to fill you up.
Not only is it super easy to make, but it also comes together quickly thanks to the magic of the air fryer. If you love casseroles but hate the long cook times in the oven, this air fryer version will quickly become your new go-to. The crispy, golden top and melty cheese combine to create a winning dish that’s sure to become a regular in your weekly meal rotation.
What You Need To Make This Recipe
To make this delicious Air Fryer Cowboy Casserole, you will need the following ingredients. Each one brings a unique flavor or texture that makes this dish stand out.
Ground Beef: Ground beef is the hearty base of the casserole, offering a rich, savory flavor that pairs perfectly with the other ingredients. It adds protein and keeps the casserole feeling filling and satisfying.
Frozen Tater Tots: These little potato bites add the perfect texture contrast to the casserole. When air fried, they turn golden and crispy, creating a crunchy top layer that contrasts beautifully with the creamy filling beneath.
Shredded Cheddar Cheese: A must for any casserole, shredded cheddar cheese melts beautifully, creating that gooey, cheesy layer everyone loves. It adds a sharp, tangy flavor that complements the beef and potatoes.
Cream of Mushroom Soup: This creamy, comforting ingredient serves as the base for the sauce in the casserole, helping to bind everything together while adding a rich, savory taste. It also helps create that creamy texture.
Milk: A splash of milk helps to thin out the soup, creating a smoother consistency for the casserole sauce. It adds a touch of creaminess and ensures everything bakes together perfectly.
Ranch Seasoning Mix: This adds a zesty, herby kick to the casserole, enhancing the flavors and giving the dish that cowboy-style flair. The ranch seasoning mix is essential for bringing all the ingredients together with a delicious tang.
Garlic Powder: Garlic powder is a simple yet essential seasoning that gives the casserole depth of flavor, balancing out the richness of the beef and cheese with its savory undertones.
Salt and Pepper: These basic seasonings are key to bringing out the natural flavors of the ingredients. Adjust them to your taste for the perfect balance.
Ingredients List
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 bag (32 oz) frozen tater tots
- 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
- ½ cup milk
- 1 packet ranch seasoning mix
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
How to Make Air Fryer Cowboy Casserole
Step 1: Cook the Ground Beef
Start by heating a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook it until browned, breaking it apart with a spatula. Drain any excess fat, then season with salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Once cooked, set the beef aside.
Step 2: Prepare the Casserole Sauce
In a bowl, combine the cream of mushroom soup, milk, and ranch seasoning mix. Stir until well combined. This will create the creamy, flavorful sauce that brings everything together.
Step 3: Layer the Casserole
In a baking dish or a casserole-safe pan that fits in your air fryer, spread the cooked ground beef evenly across the bottom. Pour the prepared sauce over the beef, spreading it out to cover it completely.
Step 4: Add the Tater Tots
Arrange the frozen tater tots on top of the beef and sauce mixture, covering it completely. Be sure to spread them evenly so they crisp up nicely as they cook.
Step 5: Air Fry the Casserole
Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). Carefully place the casserole in the air fryer basket and cook for about 15-20 minutes, or until the tater tots are golden brown and crispy, and the casserole is bubbling.
Step 6: Add the Cheese
Once the casserole is cooked, remove it from the air fryer. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese on top and return it to the air fryer for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Tips for Making This Recipe
- Make it Spicy: If you like a bit of heat, add some chopped jalapeños or a pinch of red pepper flakes to the beef mixture for an extra kick.
- Add Veggies: For more color and nutrition, feel free to throw in some diced bell peppers, onions, or corn. These additions will give your casserole more flavor and texture.
- Cheese Variations: Swap out cheddar for your favorite cheese, like mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or pepper jack, for a different flavor profile.
- Make Ahead: This casserole can be assembled the night before and stored in the fridge, then cooked in the air fryer the next day.
- Serving Tip: Serve with a side of crisp salad or coleslaw for a refreshing contrast to the richness of the casserole.
FAQs
Can I use fresh potatoes instead of frozen tater tots?
While you can use fresh potatoes, they will need to be cut into small pieces and pre-cooked until tender before adding to the casserole. Frozen tater tots are preferred for their crispy texture.
Can I make this casserole without beef?
Yes! You can easily swap out the ground beef for ground turkey, chicken, or even a vegetarian protein like lentils or a meat substitute.
How do I store leftovers?
Store leftover casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. It can also be frozen for up to 3 months.
Can I cook this casserole in a regular oven instead of the air fryer?
Yes! You can bake it in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 30-35 minutes, or until the tater tots are crispy and the casserole is hot and bubbling.
Can I use a different kind of cheese?
Absolutely! Feel free to swap the cheddar for your favorite cheese. Mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or even a spicy pepper jack will work great.