Cowboy Cornbread Casserole is a hearty and comforting dish that combines savory cornbread, seasoned ground beef, and a creamy, cheesy filling.
Perfect for family dinners or potlucks, this casserole is packed with flavors that are sure to satisfy even the heartiest appetites. It’s simple to make and great for feeding a crowd, and the combination of cornbread and ground beef is a classic that never goes out of style. If you love cornbread and casseroles, this dish will quickly become a favorite!
Kitchen Equipment Needed
- Large skillet
- 9×13-inch baking dish
- Mixing bowl
- Spoon or spatula
- Measuring cups and spoons
Ingredients Overview
- Ground Beef: The base of the casserole, seasoned with spices, adds richness and flavor.
- Cornbread Mix: This gives the casserole its signature cornbread texture and flavor, with minimal effort.
- Cheese: Cheddar cheese adds a melty, gooey texture to the casserole.
- Creamed Corn: Adds a touch of sweetness and moisture to balance the savory ingredients.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 packet (8.5 oz) cornbread mix
- 1 can (15 oz) creamed corn
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes, drained
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 egg
- 1/4 cup diced onion
- 1 tbsp taco seasoning or chili powder (optional for added spice)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat Your Oven
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish or line with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
- Cook the Ground Beef
- In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon as it cooks. Drain any excess fat.
- Season the Beef
- Add the diced onion to the cooked beef and sauté until softened, about 3-4 minutes. Stir in the taco seasoning or chili powder (if using), salt, and pepper. Add the drained diced tomatoes and creamed corn, then mix until well combined. Remove from heat.
- Prepare the Cornbread Topping
- In a mixing bowl, prepare the cornbread batter according to the package directions (usually by adding the milk and egg to the cornbread mix). Stir in half of the shredded cheddar cheese into the cornbread mixture.
- Assemble the Casserole
- Spread the beef mixture evenly in the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Pour the cornbread batter over the top, spreading it evenly to cover the beef.
- Bake
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until the cornbread topping is golden brown and cooked through.
- Add Cheese and Serve
- Once the casserole is done baking, sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese on top and bake for an additional 5 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Cool and Serve
- Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving. Cut into squares and enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions
This recipe is straightforward and perfect for busy nights when you need a meal that’s both filling and flavorful. Brown the beef, mix up the cornbread batter, and layer it all in the baking dish for a one-pan meal that’s simple to prepare.
Recipe Tips
- Vegetarian Version: Use black beans or pinto beans instead of ground beef for a vegetarian alternative.
- Add Some Heat: Stir in chopped jalapeños or diced green chilies for a spicy kick.
- Make it Ahead: Assemble the casserole the night before and bake it when you’re ready to serve. It also reheats well.
What to Serve With This Recipe
- A Green Salad: A simple side salad with ranch dressing can balance the richness of the casserole.
- Sautéed Vegetables: Roasted or sautéed vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini pair well with the dish.
- Corn on the Cob: Fresh corn is a great complement to this cornbread casserole.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different kind of meat?
Yes, ground turkey, chicken, or pork would work well in this casserole as substitutes for ground beef.
Can I freeze this casserole?
Yes, you can freeze the assembled casserole before baking. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and bake as directed.
Can I make this dish spicier?
Absolutely! You can add more chili powder, diced jalapeños, or even a few dashes of hot sauce to give it a spicy twist.
Serving Suggestions
This hearty casserole is a great standalone meal but can also be served with a side of sour cream, sliced avocado, or a dollop of salsa for extra flavor. Serve it with a refreshing side salad or a batch of cornbread muffins for an extra cozy touch.
Cowboy Cornbread Casserole
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 packet 8.5 oz cornbread mix
- 1 can 15 oz creamed corn
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 can 14 oz diced tomatoes, drained
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 egg
- 1/4 cup diced onion
- 1 tbsp taco seasoning or chili powder optional for added spice
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat Your Oven
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish or line with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
- Cook the Ground Beef
- In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon as it cooks. Drain any excess fat.
- Season the Beef
- Add the diced onion to the cooked beef and sauté until softened, about 3-4 minutes. Stir in the taco seasoning or chili powder (if using), salt, and pepper. Add the drained diced tomatoes and creamed corn, then mix until well combined. Remove from heat.
- Prepare the Cornbread Topping
- In a mixing bowl, prepare the cornbread batter according to the package directions (usually by adding the milk and egg to the cornbread mix). Stir in half of the shredded cheddar cheese into the cornbread mixture.
- Assemble the Casserole
- Spread the beef mixture evenly in the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Pour the cornbread batter over the top, spreading it evenly to cover the beef.
- Bake
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until the cornbread topping is golden brown and cooked through.
- Add Cheese and Serve
- Once the casserole is done baking, sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese on top and bake for an additional 5 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Cool and Serve
- Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving. Cut into squares and enjoy!
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