Name: Cowboy Cornbread Casserole
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 lb ground beef; 1 onion, chopped; 1 bell pepper, chopped; 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed; 1 can (15 oz) corn, drained; 1 can (10 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies; 1 packet taco seasoning; 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese; 1 box cornbread mix (8.5 oz); 1 egg; 1/3 cup milk; 1/4 cup melted butter; Salt and pepper to taste

If you’re looking for a filling and flavorful dish that combines all the best elements of comfort food, the Cowboy Cornbread Casserole is the answer. This casserole brings together savory layers of ground beef, beans, and corn, all topped with a fluffy cornbread crust and melted cheese. Perfect for family dinners or gatherings, this dish is sure to impress everyone at the table.

Ingredients

1 lb ground beef

1 onion, chopped

1 bell pepper, chopped

1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed

1 can (15 oz) corn, drained

1 can (10 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies

1 packet taco seasoning

1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

1 box cornbread mix (8.5 oz)

1 egg

1/3 cup milk

1/4 cup melted butter

Salt and pepper to taste

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).

In a large skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat, breaking it apart as it cooks. Drain any excess fat.

Add the chopped onion and bell pepper to the skillet and cook for 3-4 minutes, until softened.

Stir in the taco seasoning, black beans, corn, and diced tomatoes with green chilies. Let it simmer for 5-7 minutes, then remove from heat and set aside.

In a separate bowl, prepare the cornbread mix according to the package instructions, adding the egg, milk, and melted butter. Stir until just combined.

Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish, then layer the beef mixture at the bottom. Spread the prepared cornbread batter on top of the beef mixture, smoothing it evenly.

Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the cornbread layer.

Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the cornbread is golden brown and cooked through. Allow the casserole to cool for a few minutes before serving.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 6 servings

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Cooking Time: 30 minutes

Total Time: 40 minutes

Variations

I love experimenting with different variations of this casserole. Here are a few ideas I like to try:

Spicy Kick: If I’m craving a bit more heat, I’ll add sliced jalapeños or a few dashes of hot sauce to the beef mixture.

Vegetarian: For a vegetarian version, I swap the ground beef for a plant-based meat alternative or just add extra beans and vegetables.

Cornbread Twist: Sometimes I’ll add a little bit of sugar to the cornbread mix for a touch of sweetness, which balances out the savory flavors.

Storage/Reheating

I always have leftovers of this casserole, and it keeps well in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. I store it in an airtight container to keep the flavors fresh. When it’s time to reheat, I simply pop it in the microwave or warm it up in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes until it’s heated through.

FAQs

How can I make this casserole spicier?

To spice up the casserole, I like to add diced jalapeños, a bit of hot sauce, or extra chili powder to the beef mixture. You could also use spicy taco seasoning or add a layer of spicy cheese for an extra kick.

Can I use a different type of meat?

Yes, if I’m not in the mood for ground beef, I often use ground turkey, chicken, or even a plant-based meat alternative for a lighter or vegetarian version of the casserole.

Can I freeze this casserole?

Absolutely! If I want to make it ahead of time, I’ll assemble the casserole without baking it, cover it tightly, and freeze it. When I’m ready to eat, I’ll bake it from frozen at 375°F for about 40-45 minutes or until heated through.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, I can prepare the casserole up to 24 hours in advance. Just cover it and refrigerate it until I’m ready to bake it. It’s a great make-ahead meal for busy days.

What can I serve this with?

I like to serve this casserole with a simple side salad, some tortilla chips, or even a dollop of sour cream. It also pairs well with guacamole for extra flavor.

Conclusion

Cowboy Cornbread Casserole is the ultimate comfort food. It’s hearty, flavorful, and incredibly easy to make. I love how the layers of seasoned beef, beans, corn, and cornbread come together to create a satisfying meal. Whether I’m serving it for a family dinner or bringing it to a gathering, this dish is sure to be a hit. Try it out and enjoy a warm, delicious meal that everyone will love!

Recipe: