Easy Cowboy Cornbread Casserole Recipe

If you’re craving a hearty, satisfying meal that’s easy to prepare, look no further than this Cowboy Cornbread Casserole. Perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings, this recipe combines a rich ground beef filling with a sweet and savory cornbread topping. With simple ingredients and minimal prep time, this dish offers bold flavors that are sure to be a hit.

Why You’ll Love This Cowboy Cornbread Casserole

This recipe stands out for its ease of preparation and versatility. With just a few pantry staples like ground beef, corn, beans, and cornbread mix, you can whip up a delicious meal in under an hour. Whether you’re feeding a large family or meal prepping for the week, this Cowboy Cornbread Casserole is a true crowd-pleaser. Plus, it’s a one-dish meal, so cleanup is a breeze!

Ingredients for Cowboy Cornbread Casserole

Here’s a breakdown of everything you’ll need to create this mouthwatering casserole:

Ground Beef Filling:

• 2 pounds lean ground beef – Opt for lean ground beef to keep the filling rich but not greasy.
• 1 (14 oz) can canned corn, drained – Adds sweetness and texture to the filling.
• 1 (14.5 oz) can canned kidney beans, drained – Provides heartiness and fiber.
• 2 cups salsa – Use your favorite salsa for a hint of spice and acidity.
• 1 oz packet taco seasoning – Brings all the flavors together with classic Tex-Mex spices.
• 1 cup water – Helps create a saucy, flavorful filling.
• 1 teaspoon salt – Enhances the flavors.
• ½ teaspoon black pepper – Adds a bit of heat.
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder – Elevates the flavor profile with a subtle garlic note.
• 1½ cups shredded cheese (Colby Jack recommended) – Melts beautifully into the filling, adding creaminess and richness.

Cornbread Topping:

• 1 (8.5 oz) box Jiffy corn muffin mix – A classic, easy-to-use cornbread mix.
• 1 (8.25 oz) can creamed corn – Adds moisture and a hint of sweetness to the topping.
• 2 tablespoons milk – Helps loosen the batter for easier spreading.
• ¼ cup sour cream – Ensures a tender, fluffy cornbread topping.

this RECIPE

How to Make Cowboy Cornbread Casserole

Follow these simple steps to make this delightful dish:

1. Preheat the Oven:
   Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure it’s hot when you’re ready to bake.
2. Prepare the Ground Beef Filling:
   In a large skillet over medium-high heat, brown the 2 pounds of lean ground beef. Once the beef is fully cooked, drain off any excess grease.
   Add the drained corn, kidney beans, salsa, taco seasoning, water, salt, pepper, and garlic powder to the skillet. Stir everything together and let it simmer for 5-7 minutes until the flavors meld together and the mixture thickens slightly.
3. Assemble the Casserole:
   Pour the seasoned beef mixture into a 9×13-inch baking dish that has been sprayed with nonstick cooking spray. Spread the mixture evenly, ensuring that every bite will be packed with filling.
   Sprinkle 1½ cups of shredded Colby Jack cheese on top of the filling, creating a gooey, cheesy layer.
4. Prepare the Cornbread Topping:
   In a medium bowl, combine the Jiffy corn muffin mix, creamed corn, milk, and sour cream. Stir until a thick batter forms.
   Carefully spoon the cornbread batter over the beef and cheese layer. Spread it evenly across the top of the casserole.
5. Bake the Casserole:
   Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the cornbread topping is golden brown and cooked through. To check for doneness, insert a toothpick into the cornbread – it should come out clean when it’s ready.
6. Serve:
   Let the casserole rest for a few minutes after baking, then serve warm. It pairs perfectly with a side salad or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.

Pro Tips for Perfect Cowboy Cornbread Casserole

• Use lean ground beef: This prevents the filling from becoming greasy, especially important when paired with the rich cornbread topping.
• Cheese alternatives: If you don’t have Colby Jack cheese, you can substitute it with cheddar or a Mexican cheese blend for a different flavor profile.
• Adjust the spice level: For a spicier version, use a hot salsa or add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the beef filling.

Variations and Swaps

Feel free to customize this recipe to suit your preferences:

• Turkey or chicken: Swap out ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option.
• Vegetarian version: Skip the meat and double the beans, or use plant-based ground “meat” for a vegetarian version.
• Additional vegetables: Add diced bell peppers or onions to the filling for extra texture and nutrients.

Serving and Presentation Ideas

This Cowboy Cornbread Casserole is best served fresh from the oven, with the golden cornbread topping contrasting beautifully against the saucy beef filling. For a rustic presentation, consider serving it in the baking dish, allowing everyone to dig in family-style.
For individual servings, use a large spoon to scoop out a generous portion onto plates, allowing the melted cheese to stretch with every bite. Garnish with chopped cilantro or a dollop of sour cream for an extra pop of flavor.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Soggy cornbread topping: Avoid this by not overmixing the cornbread batter, as it can become too dense and trap moisture.
• Overcooking the ground beef: Be sure to cook the beef just until it’s browned to maintain a juicy filling.
• Inconsistent baking: Make sure to spread the cornbread batter evenly to ensure the entire topping bakes through at the same rate.

Equipment You’ll Need

• Large skillet
• 9×13 baking dish
• Medium mixing bowl
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Oven mitts

How to Store Leftovers

Store any leftover Cowboy Cornbread Casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply pop it in the microwave or warm it in the oven at 350°F until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the filling and topping separately, then assemble the casserole just before baking. Store the filling in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before combining with the cornbread topping.

Can I freeze Cowboy Cornbread Casserole?
Absolutely! Once baked, let the casserole cool completely. Cover it tightly with aluminum foil and freeze for up to 2 months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and bake at 350°F until warmed through.

What sides go well with this casserole?
This casserole is a complete meal, but you can pair it with a fresh salad, roasted vegetables, or even some mashed potatoes for added comfort.

Conclusion

Ready to enjoy this easy and flavorful Cowboy Cornbread Casserole? Give it a try, and be sure to share the recipe with your friends and family. Don’t forget to subscribe to our blog for more delicious recipes like this!

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