Air Fryer Cowboy Casserole

Air Fryer Cowboy Casserole is a hearty and flavorful dish that is sure to please the whole family. It features all of the classic flavors of a traditional cowboy casserole but is made in an air fryer for a quick and easy meal.

Air Fryer Cowboy Casserole is a hearty, one-dish meal that is perfect for a weeknight dinner. This casserole is packed with flavor, and the air fryer helps to keep the vegetables and tater tots crispy.

The Air Fryer Cowboy Casserole recipe is easy to follow, and the dish can be made in less than thirty minutes. This casserole is a great way to use up leftover vegetables, and it can be easily customized to your family’s taste. The Air Fryer Cowboy Casserole is sure to become a new family favorite.

What Is Cowboy Casserole?

What is cowboy casserole, you ask? Only the best dish to come out of the American West! Cowboy casserole is a hearty, one-pot meal that typically includes ground beef, beans, corn, and cheese. It can be either baked, air fried, or slow-cooked, and it’s often served with a side of cornbread or biscuits.

While the exact origins of cowboy casserole are unknown, it’s believed to have been created by ranch hands or cowboys who had to make do with whatever ingredients they had on hand. Over time, the dish has become a staple of Western cuisine, and it’s now enjoyed by families all over the country. So whether you’re in the mood for a hearty winter meal or a delicious summertime dish, cowboy casserole is sure to hit the spot.

Why Cook Cowboy Casserole In The Air Fryer

Well, the air fryer cooks food faster than the oven, and it gives you that nice crispy texture on the outside without making the inside dry.

The results will speak for it’s self!

Ingredients Needed For Air Fryer Cowboy Casserole

Cowboy casserole is a hearty dish that is perfect for a winter meal. The casserole is made with beef, beans, and vegetables, and is flavored with a variety of spices. While cowboy casserole can be made in a slow cooker, it can also be made in an air fryer. To make cowboy casserole in an air fryer, you will need the following ingredients:

Remember the step-by-step directions and detailed ingredient list are below, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of the post, as well as the nutritional information.

• Ground Beef: While the traditional way to prepare this casserole is ground beef, you can also use ground turkey or chicken, for a leaner meal.
• Sour Cream and Tomato Sauce: Help add some flavor to the ground beef, and make it rich and delicious!
• Cheese: Use eitehr Mexcian Blend or Cheddar Cheeese, for anotehr level of falvor
• Vegetables: Onions and Corn, for some added texture:
• Tater Tots: Nothing is better on top than some good old-fashioned tater tots.
• Seasonings and Spices: Minced Garlic, Salt, and Black Pepper

How To Make Cowboy Casserole In Air Fryer

Here are the simple steps to make a ground beef casserole in air fryer:

Step One: In a large skillet, add your ground beef, minced garlic, salt, black pepper, and diced onion. Saute over low-medium heat, until the meat is fully cooked, and remove from heat.

Step Two: Add your sour cream and tomato sauce to the ground beef, and mix well.

Step Three: Add your ground beef casserole to a baking dish, then add the grated cheese on top, followed by the corn.

Step Four: Assemble your frozen tater tots on top.

Step Five: Set the baking pan into the air fryer basket, and set air fryer temperature to cook at 310 degrees F, and set cook time for 15-20 minutes.

Pro Tips Air Fryer Cowboy Casserole

• Use a Suitable Baking Dish: Ensure the baking dish you use fits comfortably in your air fryer basket and is air fryer-safe. Ceramic or metal dishes are ideal for this purpose.
• Layer Ingredients Evenly: Distribute the ingredients in even layers to ensure consistent cooking. Spread the ground beef, beans, and vegetables evenly before adding the tater tots on top.
• Drain Excess Fat: After cooking the ground beef, drain any excess fat to prevent the casserole from becoming too greasy. This helps in achieving a better texture and flavor balance.
• Season Generously: Season each layer of the casserole well. This ensures every bite is flavorful. Use a mix of salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and your favorite spices.
• Crispy Tater Tots: Arrange the tater tots in a single layer on top of the casserole for maximum crispiness. You can lightly spray them with cooking oil for an extra golden-brown finish.
• Cheese Topping: Add shredded cheese during the last few minutes of cooking. This prevents the cheese from burning and ensures it melts beautifully over the casserole.
• Monitor Cooking Time: Air fryers can vary in their cooking times, so keep an eye on the casserole. Start checking around the 20-minute mark. The casserole is done when the tater tots are golden and crispy, and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
• Rest Before Serving: Let the casserole rest for a few minutes after cooking. This allows the layers to set and makes it easier to serve.
• Customize Your Ingredients: Feel free to add or substitute ingredients based on your preferences. For example, you can add bell peppers, corn, or different types of beans to suit your taste.

Air-Fried Cowboy Casserole Recipe FAQs

What is Cowboy Casserole? Cowboy Casserole is a hearty, comfort food dish typically made with ground beef, beans, vegetables, tater tots, and cheese. It’s a layered casserole that combines savory flavors with a crispy topping.

Can I make Cowboy Casserole in an air fryer? Yes, you can make Cowboy Casserole in an air fryer. Use an air fryer-safe baking dish that fits in your air fryer basket and follow the recipe instructions, adjusting the cooking time as needed.

What type of ground meat works best for Cowboy Casserole? Ground beef is the traditional choice for Cowboy Casserole, but you can also use ground turkey, chicken, or pork. Choose lean ground meat to reduce excess grease.

How do I prevent the casserole from becoming too greasy? After browning the ground meat, drain any excess fat before layering it in the casserole dish. This helps keep the casserole from becoming too greasy and improves the overall texture.

How long should I cook Cowboy Casserole in the air fryer? Cook the casserole at 350°F (175°C) for about 20-25 minutes. Check for doneness around the 20-minute mark. The casserole is ready when the tater tots are golden brown and crispy, and the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Can I add vegetables to the Cowboy Casserole? Yes, you can add various vegetables like bell peppers, corn, peas, or carrots. Adding vegetables increases the nutritional value and adds more flavor and texture to the casserole.

How do I get the tater tots crispy in the air fryer? Arrange the tater tots in a single layer on top of the casserole. Lightly spray them with cooking oil to help them crisp up nicely. Ensure the air fryer is preheated for the best results.

Can I make Cowboy Casserole ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare the casserole ahead of time and refrigerate it before cooking. When ready to cook, let it come to room temperature for about 15 minutes before placing it in the air fryer.

How do I store and reheat leftovers? Store leftover Cowboy Casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes or until heated through.

What should I serve with Cowboy Casserole? Cowboy Casserole pairs well with a fresh green salad, steamed vegetables, or cornbread. These sides complement the hearty and rich flavors of the casserole.

More Easy Air Fryer Recipes

• air-fried eggs
• air fryer chicken tenders
• air-fried banana splits!

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