Description
Enjoy a hassle-free Cowboy Cornbread Casserole with seasoned beef, beans, corn, and cheesy cornbread topping. A one-pan, hearty meal perfect for busy nights!
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 small onion, diced
- 1 bell pepper, chopped
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (15 oz) corn, drained
- 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes, drained
- 1 packet taco seasoning
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 box (8.5 oz) cornbread mix
- 1/3 cup milk (or as directed on cornbread mix package)
- 1 egg (or as directed on cornbread mix package)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon chili powder (optional, for extra spice)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Set oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cook Beef and Vegetables: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef, onion, and bell pepper until the beef is browned and vegetables are soft. Drain excess grease.
- Add Seasonings and Beans: Stir in the taco seasoning, black beans, corn, and diced tomatoes. Let simmer for 2-3 minutes. Season with salt, pepper, and chili powder if desired.
- Transfer to Baking Dish: Pour the beef mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish and spread evenly.
- Top with Cheese: Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the beef mixture.
- Prepare Cornbread: In a mixing bowl, prepare the cornbread batter according to package instructions using the milk and egg.
- Spread Cornbread Batter: Evenly spread the cornbread batter over the beef mixture.
- Bake: Place dish in the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until cornbread is golden brown and a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
- Cool and Serve: Let casserole rest for 5 minutes before slicing. Serve warm.
Notes
- Use ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
- Add diced jalapeños or spicier taco seasoning for more heat.
- Make it vegetarian by replacing meat with extra beans or plant-based crumbles.
- Experiment with different cheeses like pepper jack or a Mexican blend.
- Mix in zucchini, mushrooms, or spinach for added nutrients.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course, Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American, southwestern
Keywords: Cowboy Cornbread Casserole, one-pan meal, easy dinner recipe, cornbread casserole, comfort food.