Creating the Easy Cowboy Casserole is straightforward if you follow these simple steps:

1. Preheat Your Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) to prepare for baking.
2. Cook the Beef and Onions: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add diced onions and ground beef. Cook until the beef is browned and the onions are softened, about 5-7 minutes. Drain any excess fat.
3. Mix Ingredients: In the skillet, add cream of mushroom soup, mixed vegetables, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Stir everything together until well combined.
4. Add Cheese: Fold in half of the shredded cheddar cheese into the beef mixture for an extra cheesy flavor.
5. Transfer to Baking Dish: Pour the beef mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
6. Add Tater Tots: Carefully layer the frozen tater tots on top of the beef mixture, covering it completely.
7. Bake: Place the casserole in the oven and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the tater tots are golden brown and crispy.
8. Add Remaining Cheese: Sprinkle the rest of the cheddar cheese over the top and return to the oven for an additional 5 minutes, until the cheese is melted.
9. Cool Slightly: Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving.

These steps will guide you in creating this incredible, easy dish without any hassle!