Ingredients
Equipment
Method
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9 x 13 inch baking dish with cooking spray or butter.
- In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of oil over medium-high heat. Add the lean ground beef and pork sausage, cooking for about 6–8 minutes until browned.
- Add the chopped yellow onion and green bell pepper to the skillet. Sauté for 4–5 minutes, then add minced garlic and cook for an additional 30–60 seconds.
- Stir in chili powder, smoked paprika, ground cumin, oregano, salt, black pepper, and optional crushed red pepper flakes. Cook for 1 minute to toast the spices.
- Gently stir in baked beans with their sauce, kidney beans, pinto beans, and diced tomatoes. Add thawed corn and mix well.
- In a bowl, whisk together cream of mushroom soup, beef broth or water, barbecue sauce, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, and mustard until smooth. Pour into the skillet and stir until combined.
- Allow the mixture to simmer over medium-low heat for about 5–7 minutes, adjusting seasonings as necessary.
- Pour the cowboy mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading evenly. Sprinkle shredded sharp cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses over the top.
- Arrange refrigerated biscuit dough or frozen tater tots on top of the cheese layer.
- Bake for 25–30 minutes for biscuits or 30–35 minutes for tater tots, until golden and filling bubbles.
- Let the casserole rest for 10–15 minutes before serving, allowing it to thicken.
- Serve with optional garnishes like sour cream, green onions, jalapeños, or fresh herbs, and enjoy!
Nutrition
Notes
Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat as needed.
