Cowboy Cornbread Casserole

Cowboy Cornbread Casserole is a classic American dish that combines savory ground beef, beans, corn, and a golden cornbread topping. It’s hearty, flavorful, and perfect for family meals or potlucks. This easy-to-make casserole is a comforting option for lunch or dinner that everyone will love.

Ingredients

• 2 boxes Jiffy Cornbread Mix
• 2 eggs
• ⅔ cup milk
• 1 ½ pounds lean ground beef
• 1 cup yellow onion, diced
• 14.5 ounce can corn, lightly drained
• 10 ounce Ro*tel, do not drain
• 14.5 ounce pinto beans, do not drain
• 1 ounce taco seasoning

Instructions

• Preheat oven to 375°F and spray a 9×13 casserole dish with non-stick cooking spray.
• In a medium bowl, prepare cornbread according to package instructions using eggs and milk. Set aside.
• In a large skillet over medium heat, brown ground beef with diced onion until no longer pink. Drain excess fat.
• Add Rotel, pinto beans, corn, and taco seasoning to the meat mixture and stir well.
• Spoon meat mixture into the prepared casserole dish.
• Spread cornbread mixture evenly over the top.
• Bake uncovered for 40 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
• Loosely cover with foil and let sit for 10 minutes before serving.

Serving and Storage Tips

• Serve warm as a main dish, optionally with a side salad or sour cream.
• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
• Reheat individual portions in the microwave or the whole casserole in the oven at 350°F for 15–20 minutes.
• You can also freeze the casserole before baking; wrap tightly in foil and freeze for up to 2 months. Bake from frozen, adding 10–15 extra minutes to cook time.

Variations

1. Cheesy Cowboy Cornbread Casserole – Add 1 cup shredded cheddar or pepper jack cheese on top before baking.
2. Spicy Cowboy Cornbread Casserole – Add 1 diced jalapeño to the meat mixture.
3. Vegetarian Version – Replace beef with black beans or textured vegetable protein.
4. Southwest Style – Add 1 cup diced bell peppers and ½ teaspoon cumin.
5. Bacon Lovers’ – Add 6 slices cooked bacon, crumbled, into the meat mixture.
6. Salsa Topped – Spread ½ cup of salsa on top of the cornbread before baking.
7. Extra Cornbread – Double the cornbread layer for a thicker topping.
8. Slow Cooker Version – Cook meat mixture in a slow cooker for 3–4 hours before adding cornbread and baking.
9. Mexican Street Corn Style – Mix ¼ cup mayonnaise, ½ cup cotija cheese, and 1 teaspoon chili powder into the cornbread.
10. Smoky Flavor – Add 1 teaspoon smoked paprika to the meat mixture.
11. Creamy Corn Casserole – Add ½ cup cream cheese or sour cream to the cornbread mixture.
12. Ground Turkey Option – Swap beef with lean ground turkey for a lighter version.
13. Layered Casserole – Alternate layers of meat and cornbread for a visually appealing dish.
14. Herb Infused – Add 1 teaspoon dried oregano and 1 teaspoon garlic powder to the meat mixture.
15. One-Pan Meal – Add diced potatoes or zucchini to the meat mixture for extra veggies.

FAQs

1. Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
   Yes, you can prepare the meat mixture a day in advance, store in the fridge, then add cornbread and bake.
2. Can I use homemade cornbread instead of Jiffy mix?
   Absolutely! Your own cornbread recipe works just as well.
3. Can I freeze this casserole?
   Yes, freeze before or after baking; thaw in the fridge and reheat in the oven.
4. Can I make it spicier?
   Yes, add jalapeños, hot sauce, or extra Rotel for more heat.
5. How long does it keep in the fridge?
   Up to 4 days in an airtight container.
6. Can I use other beans?
   Yes, black beans or kidney beans are great substitutes.
7. Can I make it vegetarian?
   Yes, skip the beef and add more beans, corn, or meat alternatives.
8. What can I serve with it?
   Serve with a side salad, guacamole, or sour cream.
9. Can I add cheese?
   Yes, sprinkle cheese on top before baking for a cheesy version.
10. Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
    Yes, ground turkey is a lean and delicious substitute.

Cowboy Cornbread Casserole is a simple yet flavorful dish that satisfies the whole family. With layers of seasoned beef, beans, and corn topped with golden cornbread, it’s a meal that’s both filling and delicious. Perfect for busy weeknights or gatherings, this casserole is sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection.

Print