If you’re looking for a comforting, hearty, and flavor-packed meal, this Cowboy Cornbread Casserole is the perfect dish!
This Southern-inspired classic combines savory ground beef, smoky beans, melty cheese, and a golden, fluffy cornbread topping. It’s a one-pan meal that’s incredibly easy to prepare and always a crowd-pleaser.
Whether you’re making this for a family dinner, potluck, or game night, you’ll love how simple and satisfying this casserole is!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
✔️ Hearty & Comforting – Packed with protein, beans, and cornbread for a filling meal.
✔️ One-Pan Wonder – Everything cooks in one baking dish—minimal cleanup!
✔️ Budget-Friendly – Uses simple, affordable ingredients.
✔️ Crowd-Pleasing – Perfect for family dinners, gatherings, and potlucks.
Ingredients (Measured in Grams for Accuracy)
For the Beef Layer:
- Ground beef (80/20 or leaner) – 500g (1 lb)
- Yellow onion (diced) – 100g (1 small onion)
- Garlic (minced) – 10g (2 cloves)
- Black beans (drained & rinsed) – 200g (1 can)
- Diced tomatoes (with juice) – 400g (1 can)
- Corn kernels (drained, if canned) – 150g (1 cup)
- Tomato paste – 30g (2 tablespoons)
- Taco seasoning – 15g (1 packet or 2 tablespoons)
- Salt & black pepper – To taste
- Shredded cheddar cheese – 150g (1½ cups)
For the Cornbread Topping:
- Cornmeal – 160g (1 cup)
- All-purpose flour – 125g (1 cup)
- Granulated sugar – 50g (¼ cup)
- Baking powder – 8g (2 teaspoons)
- Salt – 3g (½ teaspoon)
- Eggs – 2 large
- Milk (whole or buttermilk) – 240ml (1 cup)
- Unsalted butter (melted) – 60g (¼ cup)
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Cook the Beef Mixture
1️⃣ In a large skillet, cook the ground beef and diced onions over medium heat until browned (about 5-7 minutes). Drain excess grease.
2️⃣ Stir in garlic, black beans, diced tomatoes, corn, tomato paste, taco seasoning, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 5 minutes until flavors combine.
3️⃣ Remove from heat and spread the beef mixture into a greased 9×13-inch (23×33 cm) baking dish.
4️⃣ Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the beef mixture.
2. Prepare the Cornbread Batter
1️⃣ In a large bowl, whisk together cornmeal, flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
2️⃣ In a separate bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, and melted butter.
3️⃣ Gradually pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients, stirring until just combined (do not overmix).
3. Assemble & Bake
1️⃣ Pour the cornbread batter evenly over the beef and cheese layer, spreading it out with a spatula.
2️⃣ Bake at 200°C (400°F) for 25-30 minutes, or until the cornbread is golden brown and cooked through.
3️⃣ Let the casserole cool for 5 minutes, then serve warm!
Nutritional Information (Per Serving, Based on 8 Servings)
- Calories: ~450 kcal
- Protein: 24g
- Carbohydrates: 42g
- Fats: 20g
- Sugar: 8g
- Fiber: 6g
Pro Tips for the Best Cowboy Cornbread Casserole
🔥 Use Buttermilk for Extra Moisture – It makes the cornbread fluffier and more flavorful.
🧀 Double the Cheese – Add extra cheese between the beef and cornbread layers for a gooey surprise!
🌽 Try Jalapeños – Mix diced jalapeños into the cornbread batter for a spicy kick.
🥓 Bacon Upgrade – Sprinkle crumbled bacon on top for extra smoky flavor.
Fun Variations to Try
🌶️ Spicy Southwest Style – Add chipotle peppers or hot sauce to the beef for more heat.
🫘 Vegetarian Cowboy Casserole – Swap the beef for more beans and mushrooms.
🥩 Steakhouse Version – Use cubed steak instead of ground beef for a chunkier texture.
🧀 Cheesy Cornbread Topping – Mix 1/2 cup shredded cheddar into the cornbread batter for extra cheesiness.
How to Store & Reheat
🫙 Refrigerate – Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
❄️ Freeze for Later – Wrap individual portions in foil and freeze for up to 2 months.
🔥 Reheat Like Fresh – Warm in the oven at 175°C (350°F) for 10 minutes or microwave for 1-2 minutes.
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