Looking for a filling, easy-to-make meal that the whole family will love? This Cowboy Cornbread Casserole is a savory Southern-inspired dish that combines seasoned ground beef, sweet corn, melty cheese, and a golden, fluffy cornbread topping—all baked in one comforting, delicious casserole. It’s the kind of satisfying, down-home dinner that works perfectly for meal prepping, potlucks, or weeknight dinners.
Ingredients
Servings: 6–8
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 30–35 minutes
Total Time: ~55 minutes
For the Beef Layer
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium yellow onion, chopped
- 1 pound ground beef (85/15 lean recommended)
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1 (15 oz) can diced tomatoes, drained
- 1 (15 oz) can whole kernel corn, drained
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
For the Cornbread Topping
- 1 (8.5 oz) box cornbread mix (such as Jiffy)
- 1 large egg
- ⅓ cup milk
- Optional: ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese and 2 tablespoons chopped jalapeños (for extra flavor)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Preheat and Prep
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish or medium casserole dish.
Step 2: Cook the Beef Filling
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat.
- Add chopped onions and cook for 2–3 minutes until softened.
- Add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spatula.
- Season with chili powder, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Stir in drained diced tomatoes and corn, cooking for another 3–4 minutes until warmed through.
- Remove from heat and mix in 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese.
- Spread the beef mixture evenly into the bottom of the baking dish.
Step 3: Prepare the Cornbread
- In a medium bowl, combine the cornbread mix, egg, and milk. Stir just until combined.
- For extra flavor, fold in cheese and jalapeños if using.
- Pour the cornbread batter over the beef layer and gently spread it evenly to cover.
Step 4: Bake
- Bake uncovered for 30–35 minutes or until the cornbread is golden brown and cooked through.
- Let rest for 5 minutes before slicing and serving.
Serving Suggestions
- Garnish with fresh chopped parsley, green onions, or a dollop of sour cream.
- Serve with a side salad, steamed green beans, or coleslaw.
- Add hot sauce or pickled jalapeños for a spicy kick.
- Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 2 months.
Nutritional Highlights
| Nutrient | Per Serving (1/8 of casserole) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 420 |
| Protein | 20 grams |
| Total Fat | 24 grams |
| Saturated Fat | 9 grams |
| Carbohydrates | 32 grams |
| Fiber | 3 grams |
| Sugars | 5 grams |
| Sodium | 720 milligrams |
Key Benefits:
- Protein-rich beef and cheese help keep you full longer
- Corn and tomatoes add fiber, antioxidants, and natural sweetness
- Customizable spice level to suit your preference
- One-dish meal that’s perfect for meal prepping or freezing
Recipe Variations
- Make it leaner: Use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef.
- Go vegetarian: Swap the meat for black beans and extra veggies.
- Add heat: Mix diced jalapeños or hot sauce into the beef or cornbread batter.
- Make it deluxe: Top with a sour cream drizzle or avocado slices after baking.
This Cowboy Cornbread Casserole is a perfect fusion of hearty, cheesy, and sweet-savory flavors in one simple, no-fuss dish. With minimal prep and big flavor, it’s the ultimate comfort food that’s easy enough for weeknights and crowd-pleasing enough for gatherings.
Give this classic casserole a try—you might just find yourself making it on repeat.