I enjoy making this casserole because it’s filling, cozy, and perfect for those days when I want a hearty meal without too much effort. Everything bakes together into one warm, cheesy dish that feels comforting and satisfying straight from the oven.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
I like this recipe because it uses simple ingredients and comes together quickly. I can prepare it after a long day and still serve something that feels homemade and comforting. It’s great for feeding a family, sharing with friends, or enjoying as leftovers the next day.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of Ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
For the beef layer
1 lb ground beef
1 small onion, finely diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon paprika
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
For the casserole filling
1 cup corn kernels (canned or frozen)
1 cup baked beans
1/2 cup tomato sauce
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
For the topping
1 cup refrigerated biscuit dough, cut into small pieces
2 tablespoons melted butter
Directions
I start by preheating the oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly greasing a medium baking dish. In a large skillet over medium heat, I cook the ground beef and diced onion until the meat is browned and the onion becomes soft. I drain any excess grease, then add the garlic, paprika, salt, and black pepper, cooking for about one minute until fragrant.
I stir in the corn, baked beans, and tomato sauce, mixing everything until well combined. I spread this mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish. I sprinkle the cheddar and mozzarella cheeses evenly over the top.
I place the biscuit dough pieces across the casserole and brush them with melted butter. I bake the casserole uncovered for 30 to 35 minutes, until the biscuits are golden brown and the filling is bubbling. I let it rest for a few minutes before serving.
Servings And Timing
I usually get about 6 servings from this casserole.
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 35 minutes
Total time: 50 minutes
Variations
I sometimes add diced bell peppers or jalapeños for extra flavor. When I want a richer taste, I mix a tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce into the beef mixture. I also like replacing the biscuit topping with mashed potatoes for a different texture.
Storage/Reheating
I store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, I warm individual portions in the microwave or place the casserole in a 350°F oven until heated through. I cover it loosely with foil to prevent the topping from browning too much.
FAQs
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
I often prepare the filling in advance and refrigerate it, then add the topping and bake when I’m ready to serve.
Can I freeze this casserole?
I freeze the casserole without the biscuit topping. When I’m ready to use it, I thaw it overnight, add the topping, and bake as directed.
Can I use a different type of meat?
I’ve used ground turkey or ground chicken, and both work well with a little extra seasoning.
What can I use instead of biscuit dough?
I like using mashed potatoes or even cornbread batter as a topping for a fun twist.
How do I know when it’s done?
I check that the biscuits are golden and cooked through and that the filling is hot and bubbly.
Conclusion
I love this Cattle Drive Casserole because it’s simple, hearty, and comforting. It’s one of those meals I can rely on when I want something warm and satisfying without spending hours in the kitchen.
Cattle Drive Casserole is a hearty, one-dish meal featuring a flavorful beef and bean base topped with melted cheese and golden biscuit pieces. It’s warm, cozy, and perfect for busy weeknights or feeding a crowd.
Total Time:50 minutes
Yield:6 servings
Ingredients
For the beef layer:
1 lb ground beef
1 small onion, finely diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon paprika
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
For the casserole filling:
1 cup corn kernels (canned or frozen)
1 cup baked beans
1/2 cup tomato sauce
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
For the topping:
1 cup refrigerated biscuit dough, cut into small pieces
2 tablespoons melted butter
Instructions
Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a medium baking dish.
In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef and diced onion until browned and softened. Drain excess grease.
Add garlic, paprika, salt, and black pepper to the skillet and cook for 1 more minute.
Stir in the corn, baked beans, and tomato sauce. Mix until well combined.
Spread the beef mixture evenly in the prepared baking dish.
Top with shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheeses.
Arrange biscuit dough pieces over the cheese layer and brush with melted butter.
Bake uncovered for 30–35 minutes, until the biscuits are golden and the casserole is bubbling.
Let rest for a few minutes before serving.
Notes
Add diced bell peppers or jalapeños for extra flavor.
Mix in Worcestershire sauce for a richer beef taste.
Use mashed potatoes or cornbread batter instead of biscuit topping for variety.
Prepare the filling ahead and bake later with the topping.
Cover loosely with foil during reheating to prevent over-browning.
