Cattle Drive Casserole

Cattle Drive Casserole is a robust, flavorful Tex-Mex-inspired bake that layers a fluffy biscuit crust with seasoned ground beef, zesty tomatoes, and green chiles, then tops it all off with a creamy, cheesy topping. It’s the perfect all-in-one dish for busy weeknights, potlucks, or family gatherings.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• A complete meal in one pan with protein, carbs, and veggies
• Easy to customize with your favorite Tex-Mex flavors
• Ideal for meal prepping or feeding a crowd
• Comforting, cheesy, and filling
• Simple ingredients, easy assembly

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 2 cups biscuit/baking mix (like Bisquick)
• 1¼ cups milk
• 2 tbsp vegetable oil, divided
• Cooking spray
• 2 lb ground beef (85/15)
• ½ cup chopped yellow onion
• ¾ cup chopped poblano chile or green bell pepper
• 1 oz taco seasoning mix (or 3 tbsp homemade taco seasoning)
• ¾ tsp kosher salt
• 2 (10 oz) cans diced tomatoes with green chiles, drained
• ½ cup mayonnaise
• ½ cup sour cream
• 2 cups shredded pepper jack cheese, divided
• 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese, divided

directions

this recipe

1. Preheat oven to 350°F. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray.
2. In a bowl, mix biscuit mix, milk, and 1 tbsp oil. Spread into the baking dish and bake for 10–15 minutes until lightly golden.
3. In a large skillet, heat remaining oil and cook ground beef until browned. Add onion and poblano pepper; cook until softened. Stir in taco seasoning and salt.
4. In a separate bowl, combine mayonnaise, sour cream, 1 cup each of pepper jack and cheddar cheese.
5. Layer the cooked beef mixture over the baked crust, top with drained tomatoes and chiles, then spread the sour cream-cheese mixture on top. Finish with remaining cheese.
6. Bake for 30 minutes until hot and bubbly. Let rest for 10 minutes before serving.

Servings and timing

Serves: 8
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes

Variations

• Add black beans, corn, or sliced jalapeños for extra flavor
• Use ground turkey, chicken, or plant-based crumbles instead of beef
• Swap out biscuit crust for cornbread or crescent roll dough
• Top with crushed tortilla chips or fresh cilantro before serving

storage/reheating

• Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 4 days in an airtight container
• Reheat individual portions in the microwave or oven until hot
• Freeze unbaked casserole for up to 3 months; thaw before baking

FAQs

What is Cattle Drive Casserole?

It’s a layered casserole featuring a biscuit crust, taco-seasoned beef, tomatoes with chiles, and a cheesy sour cream topping.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes—assemble the casserole and refrigerate up to 2 days before baking.

Is it spicy?

It’s mildly spicy from the green chiles and pepper jack. Adjust heat to your preference.

Can I use a different cheese?

Absolutely—Monterey Jack, mozzarella, or a Mexican blend all work well.

Can I freeze this dish?

Yes—freeze unbaked, then thaw overnight in the fridge and bake as directed.

What can I serve with it?

Pair it with a green salad, rice, guacamole, or chips and salsa.

How can I make it vegetarian?

Replace the beef with black beans, lentils, or meat substitutes.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, use two pans or a larger baking dish and maintain the same cooking time.

How do I make the crust from scratch?

Use homemade biscuit dough with flour, baking powder, butter, and milk if you prefer.

Will leftovers taste good?

Yes, it reheats well and the flavors deepen, making it great for meal prep.

Conclusion

Cattle Drive Casserole is a cheesy, savory, and satisfying dish that delivers Tex-Mex comfort in every bite. With layers of biscuit crust, seasoned beef, and creamy cheese topping, it’s perfect for weeknight dinners, leftovers, or sharing with a crowd. Customize it to your liking and enjoy a hearty, flavorful meal that hits the spot every time.

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