Hawaiian Cowboy Casserole

The Recipe’s Story

What is a Hawaiian cowboy casserole?

A Hawaiian Cowboy Casserole is a fun spin on the classic cowboy casserole, a dish known for its one-pan combination of ground beef, tater tots, and cheese. The name “cowboy casserole” comes from its rustic, comforting ingredients that feel like something you’d make on a ranch—simple, filling, and perfect for feeding a crowd.

The Hawaiian version takes this classic to the next level by adding pineapple chunks and a touch of heat from pickled jalapenos. It’s the perfect fusion of savory and sweet, making it a bit more unique compared to other pineapple casserole recipes. If you like a comforting meal with a unique twist, this casserole might be for you!

What if I don’t have the butternut squash soup needed for this cowboy tater tot casserole?

If you don’t have butternut squash soup on hand, you can easily substitute it with other creamy soups like cream of mushroom, cream of chicken, or cheddar cheese soup. These options will still give your casserole a rich and creamy texture while complementing the savory flavors of the ground beef, tater tots, and bacon.

If you want to keep the sweet note that the butternut squash soup provides, you could mix in a small amount of pumpkin puree or sweet potato puree with one of these substitutes. The goal is to keep the casserole creamy and flavorful, so feel free to use whatever you have on hand—it’s one of the reasons this dish is such an easy casserole recipe!

What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?

To keep the tater tots in your baked pineapple casserole crispy, reheat leftovers in the oven at 350°F for about 15 minutes, or until heated through. If you’re short on time, use an air fryer to reheat individual portions. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the tater tots soggy (unless that’s your preference!). This reheating method ensures the casserole stays as delicious as when it first came out of the oven.

Can I make a vegetarian version of this pineapple casserole recipe?

Yes, you can definitely alter this recipe to make it vegetarian! To create a vegetarian version of this pineapple casserole recipe, simply swap the ground beef for a plant-based alternative or cooked lentils. Replace the bacon with a vegetarian-friendly substitute or omit it entirely. With its creamy base, cheesy topping, and pineapple, the vegetarian version of this casserole will be just as irresistible as the original!

Can I adjust the spice level?

Definitely! The spice in this cowboy tater tot casserole comes mainly from the pickled jalapeños, so it’s easy to adjust. If you prefer a milder dish, just use fewer jalapeños or skip them altogether. You can also swap them for mild green chilies to keep the flavor without the heat. For people who enjoy a little extra kick, add more jalapeños, a dash of hot sauce, or a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes. This casserole is super customizable, so you can make it as mild or spicy as you please!

Now that you know all the ins and outs of making this Hawaiian Cowboy Casserole, it’s time to dive into the ingredients and steps and make the best tater tot casserole at home!