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Easy Cowboy Cornbread Casserole

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Easy Cowboy Cornbread Casserole is a hearty, satisfying, and crowd-pleasing dish made with layers of savory beef, beans, and corn, all topped with a sweet and fluffy cornbread layer. This one-pan meal is simple to prepare and perfect for busy weeknights, game day gatherings, or any time you crave comfort food!

Ingredients

Scale

For the Beef Layer:

  • 1 lb (450g) ground beef
  • 1 small onion, diced
  • 1 green bell pepper, diced
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1 can (15 oz) corn, drained
  • 1 can (10 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies (e.g., Rotel), undrained
  • 1 packet (1 oz) taco seasoning mix
  • 1/2 cup (60g) shredded cheddar cheese

For the Cornbread Topping:

 

  • 1 box (8.5 oz) cornbread mix (e.g., Jiffy)
  • 1/3 cup (80ml) milk
  • 1 large egg
  • 1/2 cup (60g) shredded cheddar cheese (optional)

Instructions

  • Preheat the Oven:
    • Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish or a large oven-safe skillet.
  • Cook the Beef Mixture:
    • In a large skillet over medium-high heat, cook the ground beef, onion, and bell pepper until the beef is browned and the vegetables are soft, about 5-7 minutes.
    • Drain excess fat, if needed. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes.
    • Stir in the black beans, corn, diced tomatoes with green chilies, and taco seasoning. Mix well and let it simmer for 2-3 minutes.
    • Transfer the beef mixture to the prepared baking dish and spread evenly. Sprinkle 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar cheese over the top.
  • Prepare the Cornbread Topping:
    • In a medium bowl, prepare the cornbread mix according to package instructions, usually by combining the cornbread mix, milk, and egg.
    • Stir in the additional 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar cheese, if using.
  • Assemble the Casserole:
    • Pour the cornbread batter evenly over the beef mixture, spreading it gently with a spatula to cover the filling.
  • Bake the Casserole:
    • Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cornbread is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
  • Serve:
    • Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh chopped cilantro, sour cream, or sliced jalapeños, if desired.

Notes

  • Make it spicy: Add diced jalapeños to the beef mixture or the cornbread batter.
  • Make it vegetarian: Substitute the ground beef with plant-based crumbles or cooked lentils.
  • Add-ins: For extra flavor, add a can of drained pinto beans or a handful of diced cooked bacon.