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Cowboy Cornbread Casserole

Cowboy Cornbread Casserole is a hearty, comforting dish that layers savory seasoned beef, beans, and corn under a golden cornbread crust. It’s a one-pan meal perfect for family dinners and casual gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound ground beef
  • 1 medium yellow onion, diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes, undrained
  • 1 (15 oz) can corn kernels, drained
  • 1 (15 oz) can pinto beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1 tablespoon chili powder
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1 (8.5 oz) box cornbread mix
  • 1/3 cup milk
  • 1 large egg

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch casserole dish.
  2. In a large skillet, brown ground beef with onion over medium heat until no longer pink. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
  3. Stir in diced tomatoes, corn, beans, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 5 minutes.
  4. Mix in 1 cup of cheddar cheese. Pour mixture into prepared dish and spread evenly.
  5. In a bowl, combine cornbread mix, milk, and egg. Stir until just mixed. Spread over beef mixture.
  6. Bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes until cornbread is golden and a toothpick comes out clean.
  7. Sprinkle remaining 1/2 cup cheese on top and return to oven for 5 minutes.
  8. Let rest for 10 minutes before serving.

Notes

  • Use a cast iron skillet to cook and bake in the same pan for extra crisp edges.
  • Add jalapeños or green chilies for a spicy kick.
  • Substitute ground beef with ground turkey or lentils for a lighter version.

Nutrition

Keywords: cowboy casserole, cornbread casserole, beef casserole, southern comfort food, easy dinner