Description
This Easy Cowboy Cornbread Casserole is a hearty and comforting one-dish meal that combines seasoned ground beef, corn, and tomato sauce with a fluffy cornbread topping baked to golden perfection. Finished with melted cheddar cheese and optionally served with sour cream, it’s a perfect dish for family dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 1 can (15 oz) corn kernels, drained
- 1 can (8 oz) tomato sauce
- 1 packet taco seasoning (or 1 tablespoon homemade taco seasoning)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Cornbread Topping
- 1 box (8.5 oz) cornbread mix (such as Jiffy)
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1 large egg
Toppings and Garnish
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 cup sour cream (optional for serving)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish thoroughly and set it aside to prepare the casserole.
- Sauté Onions: In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook for 3 to 4 minutes until softened and translucent, stirring occasionally to prevent burning.
- Cook Ground Beef: Add 1 lb ground beef to the skillet with the onions. Cook the beef, breaking it apart with a spatula, until it is browned and fully cooked through, about 6 to 8 minutes. Once done, drain any excess fat to keep the dish from being greasy.
- Add Seasoning and Corn: Stir in 1 can of drained corn kernels, 1 can of tomato sauce, 1 packet of taco seasoning (or 1 tablespoon homemade taco seasoning), and salt and pepper to taste. Allow this mixture to simmer gently for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally so the flavors meld together.
- Prepare Cornbread Batter: In a separate bowl, combine the cornbread mix, 1/4 cup milk, and 1 large egg. Stir just until everything is moistened and mixed; do not overmix to maintain a light texture.
- Assemble Casserole: Spread the cooked beef mixture evenly across the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Pour the cornbread batter over the top in an even layer, using a spatula to smooth it out.
- Add Cheese Topping: Sprinkle 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the cornbread batter for a cheesy crust once baked.
- Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes. The cornbread should turn golden brown, and a toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean, indicating it is fully cooked.
- Cool and Serve: Allow the casserole to cool for 5 to 10 minutes before serving. Optionally, serve warm with a dollop of sour cream on the side for extra creaminess and tang.
Notes
- You can substitute the taco seasoning with your favorite homemade blend to control sodium and spice levels.
- For a spicier version, add diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce to the beef mixture.
- If you prefer a vegetarian option, replace the ground beef with cooked lentils or a plant-based ground substitute.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven or microwave.
- Make sure not to overmix the cornbread batter to keep it tender and fluffy.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
