Cowboy Cornbread Casserole
Savory beef, beans, and corn tucked under a golden cornbread crust.
Introduction
Cowboy Cornbread Casserole is the kind of dish that brings everyone to the table. It’s rustic, filling, and packed with flavor — a Tex‑Mex inspired casserole layered with seasoned beef, beans, corn, and melty cheese, all baked beneath a fluffy cornbread topping. Perfect for weeknight dinners, potlucks, or game day gatherings, this recipe is simple to make and guaranteed to satisfy hungry appetites.
Ingredients
2 packs cornbread mix (plus ingredients required on package: eggs, milk, oil)
1½ lbs ground beef
1 can Rotel (diced tomatoes & green chilies)
1 can whole kernel corn, drained
1 can ranch style beans, drained
1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or Mexican blend)
1 pack taco seasoning
Instructions
Preheat Oven
Heat oven according to cornbread mix directions.
Grease a 9×13‑inch baking dish.
Cook Beef Mixture
In a skillet, brown ground beef over medium heat. Drain excess fat.
Stir in taco seasoning, Rotel, corn, and beans. Cook 2–3 minutes until heated through.
Layer Casserole
Spread beef mixture evenly in prepared dish.
Sprinkle shredded cheese over the top.
Prepare Cornbread
Mix cornbread batter according to package instructions.
Pour evenly over beef and cheese layer.
Bake
Bake according to cornbread directions, until golden brown and a toothpick comes out clean.
Cool & Serve
Let casserole rest for 5–10 minutes.
Slice and serve warm.
Recipe Notes
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 35–40 minutes
Total Time: ~55 minutes
Servings: 8–10
Tips for Success
Use lean ground beef to avoid excess grease.
For extra spice, add jalapeños or hot sauce to the beef mixture.
Swap ranch beans for black beans or pinto beans if preferred.
Double the cheese layer for extra gooey comfort.
Fun Variations
Southwest Style: Add bell peppers and onions to the beef mixture.
BBQ Twist: Mix barbecue sauce into the beef for smoky sweetness.
Chicken Version: Substitute ground chicken or turkey for beef.
Breakfast Casserole: Use sausage instead of beef and top with fried eggs after baking.
Serving Ideas
Pair with a crisp green salad for balance.
Serve with sour cream, salsa, or guacamole on the side.
Garnish with fresh cilantro or sliced green onions.
Storytelling Element
Imagine scooping into this casserole: the cornbread crust is golden and fluffy, the beef layer is savory and spiced, and the melted cheese ties it all together. It’s rustic comfort food at its best — the kind of dish that feels like a hug after a long day.
Conclusion
This Cowboy Cornbread Casserole is a hearty, flavorful dish that’s easy to prepare and perfect for feeding a crowd. With its Tex‑Mex flair and comforting layers, it’s sure to become a family favorite.