Cowboy Cornbread Casserole

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Cowboy Cornbread Casserole

Bold. Hearty. Irresistible. This comforting Cowboy Cornbread Casserole is everything you crave in a rustic, one-pan dinner—flavorful seasoned beef, black beans, corn, green chiles, and melty cheese, all baked under a golden cornbread topping. It’s the ultimate family-friendly weeknight meal!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

If you’re looking for a satisfying casserole that brings bold Tex-Mex flavor and minimal cleanup, this is your new favorite! It’s perfect for potlucks, cozy dinners, or meal prep. The combination of savory beef, creamy cheese, and sweet cornbread makes every bite pure comfort food bliss.

Ingredients

Beef Filling:

  • 1 ½ pounds ground beef
  • 1 cup onion, diced
  • 3 tablespoons taco seasoning (or 1 store-bought packet)
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 (14.5 oz) can black beans, drained
  • 1 (14.5 oz) can corn, drained
  • 1 (24 oz) jar thick salsa (avoid runny salsa)
  • 1 (4 oz) can diced green chiles
  • 2 cups shredded cheese (use a blend like pepper jack and sharp cheddar for extra flavor)

Cornbread Topping:

  • 1 (8.5 oz) box Jiffy corn muffin mix
  • 1 (14 oz) can creamed corn
  • 2 tablespoons milk
  • 1 large egg
  • ¼ cup sour cream

Instructions

  1. Preheat Oven
    Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Cook the Beef Mixture
    In a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat, cook the ground beef and diced onion for about 6–7 minutes, or until the beef is browned and fully cooked. Drain any excess grease.
  3. Add the Seasonings and Veggies
    Stir in taco seasoning, salt, pepper, salsa, black beans, corn, and green chiles. Mix until everything is well combined. Turn off the heat and level the surface of the mixture with a spoon.
  4. Top with Cheese
    Sprinkle the shredded cheese evenly over the beef and bean mixture.
  5. Make the Cornbread Topping
    In a medium mixing bowl, combine the Jiffy mix, creamed corn, milk, egg, and sour cream. Stir until just combined (do not overmix).
  6. Spread Cornbread Mixture
    Carefully spread the cornbread batter evenly over the cheese layer. Use a spatula to smooth it out to the edges.
  7. Bake
    Transfer the skillet to the oven and bake for 35–40 minutes, or until the cornbread is golden and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
  8. Serve and Enjoy
    Let it rest for 5 minutes before serving. Add your favorite taco toppings—sliced avocado, chopped cilantro, a dollop of sour cream, or jalapeños for extra heat.

Tips for Success

  • Salsa Matters: Use a thick salsa to avoid making the beef mixture too runny. Fire-roasted or chunky salsas work beautifully.
  • Custom Beans: Feel free to substitute black beans with pinto or kidney beans—whatever you have on hand.
  • No Oven-Safe Skillet? Simply transfer the beef mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish before adding the cheese and cornbread topping.

What to Serve with Cowboy Cornbread Casserole

This dish is already a full meal on its own, but here are a few side ideas:

  • A crisp green salad with lime vinaigrette
  • Roasted vegetables
  • Pickled jalapeños or red onions
  • A cool drink like homemade lemonade or agua fresca

Storage & Reheating

  • Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
  • Reheat: Warm in the microwave or cover with foil and reheat in a 325°F oven until heated through.
  • Freezer-Friendly: Freeze individual portions for quick lunches or freeze the whole dish before baking. Let it thaw overnight in the fridge, then bake as instructed.

Nutrition (Per Serving)

Estimated for 6 servings
Calories: 448 | Protein: 30g | Carbohydrates: 45g | Fat: 34g
Saturated Fat: 15g | Sodium: 790mg | Fiber: 5g | Calcium: 243mg | Iron: 3mg

 

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