Cowboy Cornbread Casserole Recipe

This Cowboy Cornbread Casserole is a delicious and satisfying dish that’s perfect for a casual weeknight dinner or a potluck gathering. It’s a hearty combination of ground beef, beans, corn, and a flavorful cornbread topping, all baked together in one pan. It’s a simple and comforting meal that’s sure to please a crowd.

Why You’ll Love This Cowboy Cornbread Casserole

• Hearty and Flavorful: This casserole is packed with protein and fiber from the ground beef and beans, and the cornbread topping adds a delicious sweetness and texture.
• Easy to Make: This recipe is so simple, anyone can make it. It’s perfect for beginner cooks or when you’re short on time.
• One-Pan Wonder: This casserole is made in just one pan, which means less cleanup for you.
• Versatile: You can easily customize this casserole with different vegetables, beans, or spices to create your own unique flavor combinations.

this Recipe

Ingredients for Cowboy Cornbread Casserole

Ground Beef Filling:

• Lean Ground Beef: I use lean ground beef for this recipe, but you can use any type of ground beef you prefer.
• Canned Corn and Kidney Beans: I use canned corn and kidney beans for convenience, but you can also use fresh or frozen corn and cooked kidney beans.
• Salsa: Adds flavor and a bit of spice to the filling.
• Taco Seasoning: Adds a blend of spices for that classic taco flavor.
• Water: Helps to create a sauce for the filling.
• Salt, Pepper, and Garlic Powder: To season the filling.
• Shredded Cheese: I use Colby Jack cheese, but you can use any type of cheese you like.

Cornbread Topping:

• Jiffy Corn Muffin Mix: I use Jiffy corn muffin mix for convenience, but you can also use your favorite cornbread recipe.
• Creamed Corn: Adds sweetness and moisture to the cornbread topping.
• Milk: Helps to create a smooth batter.
• Sour Cream: Adds tanginess and richness to the cornbread topping.

(Note: the full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)

Variations

Want to try something different? Here are a few ideas:

• Spicy Kick: Add more chili powder, a pinch of cayenne pepper, or a dash of hot sauce to the filling for extra heat.
• Veggie Variety: Toss in some other vegetables like diced bell peppers, chopped celery, or sliced carrots.
• Beans: Use different types of beans, like black beans, pinto beans, or even chickpeas.
• Corn: Use fresh corn kernels instead of frozen corn.
• Cornbread Add-Ins: Spice up the cornbread topping with diced chilies, jalapeños, bell peppers, cilantro, or chili powder and cumin.

How to Make Cowboy Cornbread Casserole

Step 1: Preheat and Brown the Beef

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Brown the ground beef in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Drain off any excess grease.

Step 2: Make the Filling

Add the corn, kidney beans, salsa, taco seasoning, water, salt, pepper, and garlic powder to the skillet with the browned ground beef. Stir to combine.

Step 3: Assemble the Casserole

Pour the beef mixture into a 9×13 inch baking dish that has been sprayed with nonstick spray. Top with shredded cheese and set aside.

Step 4: Make the Cornbread Topping

In a medium bowl, combine the corn muffin mix, creamed corn, milk, and sour cream. Mix until you have a thick batter.

Step 5: Bake

Spoon the cornbread batter evenly over the ground beef and cheese mixture in the baking dish. Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the topping is cooked through and golden brown.

Step 6: Serve

Let the casserole cool slightly before serving. Garnish with your favorite taco toppings, if desired.

Tips and Tricks

• Lean Ground Beef: Use lean ground beef so you don’t have to worry about draining excess grease.
• Spice Level: Adjust the heat of the filling by using a mild, medium, or hot salsa.
• Draining: Be sure to drain the beans and corn before adding them to the filling to prevent a soupy casserole.

How to Serve

This Cowboy Cornbread Casserole is delicious on its own, but you can also serve it with:

• Side Salad: A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette is a refreshing complement to this hearty casserole.
• Toppings: Add your favorite taco toppings, like sour cream, diced avocado, fresh tomatoes, sliced olives, and cilantro.

Make Ahead and Storage

• Make Ahead: You can assemble the casserole ahead of time and bake it later.
• Storing: Store leftover casserole in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
• Freezing: You can freeze this casserole for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Reheating: Reheat the casserole in the microwave or in a 375°F oven for 15-18 minutes.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of meat?
Yes, you can use ground turkey or chicken instead of ground beef.

Can I use different beans?
Absolutely! Black beans or another bean of your choice can be used instead of kidney beans.

Can I use fresh or frozen corn?
Yes, you can use fresh or frozen corn with great results.

There you have it! A flavorful, hearty, and easy-to-make Cowboy Cornbread Casserole recipe. I hope you enjoy it!

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