Cowboy Cornbread Casserole is a hearty and satisfying dish packed with savory flavors. It combines seasoned ground beef, beans, corn, and a deliciously sweet and savory cornbread topping. Perfect for busy weeknights or potluck gatherings, this one-pan meal is easy to make and loved by all.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

A complete meal in one dish
Quick and easy to prepare
Perfect for family dinners or meal prep
Budget-friendly ingredients
Customizable with different meats, beans, and toppings
Comfort food at its best

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Ground beef
Onion
Garlic
Diced tomatoes
Black beans
Corn kernels
Chili powder
Cumin
Salt and pepper
Cornbread mix
Eggs
Milk
Shredded cheese

Directions

Preheat your oven to 375°F.
In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned. Drain excess fat.
Add chopped onion and garlic to the skillet and cook until softened.
Stir in diced tomatoes, black beans, corn, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Simmer for a few minutes.
Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish.
In a separate bowl, prepare the cornbread batter according to package instructions, adding eggs, milk, and cheese.
Pour the cornbread batter over the beef mixture, spreading evenly.
Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the cornbread is golden brown and cooked through.
Let cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy!

Servings and Timing

Servings: 6-8
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes

Variations

Spicy Version: Add diced jalapeños or extra chili powder for more heat.
Different Meats: Swap ground beef for ground turkey, chicken, or sausage.
Extra Veggies: Mix in bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms.
Cheesy Delight: Add more shredded cheese between layers for extra richness.
Southwestern Twist: Use taco seasoning instead of chili powder and cumin.

Storage/Reheating

Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Freezing: Wrap the casserole tightly in plastic wrap and foil. Freeze for up to 3 months.
Reheating: Warm in the oven at 350°F for 15-20 minutes or microwave individual portions for 1-2 minutes.

FAQs

How do I know when the cornbread is fully cooked?

Insert a toothpick into the cornbread layer. If it comes out clean, it’s done.

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Yes! Assemble the casserole, cover, and refrigerate. Bake when ready.

Can I use homemade cornbread instead of mix?

Absolutely! Use your favorite homemade cornbread batter instead.

What sides pair well with this dish?

A simple salad, roasted vegetables, or coleslaw work well.

Can I use a different type of bean?

Yes, pinto beans or kidney beans are great alternatives.

Can I make this casserole in a slow cooker?

Yes, cook the meat mixture first, then add the cornbread batter and cook on low for 4-5 hours.

How can I make this gluten-free?

Use a gluten-free cornbread mix and check ingredient labels.

What cheese works best in this recipe?

Cheddar, Monterey Jack, or Pepper Jack cheese add great flavor.

Can I add a layer of sour cream?

Yes, spread a layer of sour cream over the beef mixture before adding cornbread batter.

How do I prevent the cornbread from getting soggy?

Let the beef mixture cool slightly before adding the cornbread batter to prevent excess moisture.

Conclusion

Cowboy Cornbread Casserole is a delicious, comforting dish that brings together bold flavors in a simple one-pan meal. Whether you’re making it for a weeknight dinner, potluck, or meal prep, this casserole is sure to be a hit. With plenty of variations to suit different tastes, it’s a recipe you’ll want to make again and again.