Ingredients:
– **1 lb** ground beef
– **1 small onion**, finely chopped
– **2 cloves** garlic, minced
– **1 can (15 oz)** whole kernel corn, drained
– **1 can (15 oz)** ranch-style beans, drained
– **1 can (10 oz)** diced tomatoes with green chilies (e.g., Rotel)
– **1 can (10.5 oz)** cream of mushroom soup
– **1/2 cup** sour cream
– **2 cups** shredded cheddar cheese, divided
– **1 bag (8 oz)** egg noodles
– **Salt and pepper** to taste
– **1 tsp** chili powder
– **1/2 tsp** ground cumin
– **1/2 tsp** smoked paprika
#### Instructions:
1. **Preheat Oven**: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. **Cook the Ground Beef**: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef, chopped onion, and minced garlic until the beef is browned and the onion is soft. Drain any excess fat.
3. **Add Seasonings and Vegetables**: Add the chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper to the beef mixture. Stir to combine. Then add the corn, ranch-style beans, and diced tomatoes with green chilies. Stir well and let it simmer for about 5 minutes.
4. **Cook the Noodles**: While the beef mixture is simmering, cook the egg noodles according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
5. **Combine Ingredients**: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked noodles, beef mixture, cream of mushroom soup, sour cream, and 1 cup of the shredded cheddar cheese. Mix everything together until well combined.
6. **Transfer to Baking Dish**: Pour the mixture into a greased 9×13 inch (or similar size) baking dish. Spread it out evenly.
7. **Top with Cheese**: Sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese over the top of the casserole.
8. **Bake**: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and the cheese on top is melted and slightly golden.
9. **Serve**: Allow the casserole to sit for about 5 minutes before serving. Enjoy!
Tips:
– You can add more vegetables like bell peppers or jalapeños if you like a bit of extra heat and flavor.
– For a twist, you can use different types of cheese such as pepper jack or Monterey jack.
– Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated in the microwave or oven.
This Cattle Drive Casserole is a delicious, filling meal that’s perfect for sharing with friends and family. Enjoy!