Cowboy Casserole

A family favorite that’s nourishing, fuss-free, and sure to win over even your pickiest eaters.

Ingredients

• 6 oz elbow or rotini pasta
• 1 lb ground beef
• ¼ cup butter
• ¼ cup all-purpose flour
• 1 cup beef broth
• 1¼ cup milk (whole preferred)
• ½ tsp garlic powder
• ½ tsp onion powder
• 1 tsp salt
• 1 tsp black pepper
• ½ bag frozen corn (about 1 cup)

Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta
   Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. Brown the Beef
   While pasta cooks, heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add ground beef and cook, breaking it apart, until fully browned (about 6–8 minutes). Drain excess fat and transfer beef to a plate. Set aside.
3. Make the Roux
   In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook for 2 minutes, stirring constantly, until golden and bubbly.
4. Build the Sauce
   Gradually whisk in beef broth until smooth. Cook for 3–4 minutes, until slightly thickened.
   Slowly whisk in milk and continue stirring for 5–7 minutes until the sauce is thick, smooth, and creamy.
5. Season & Combine
   Stir in garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
   Add the cooked pasta, browned beef, and frozen corn. Stir until well combined and heated through.
6. Serve and Enjoy
   We enjoy adding Chipotle-flavored Tabasco.