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Cowboy Cornbread Casserole

Cowboy Cornbread Casserole
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Cowboy Cornbread Casserole is a warm, hearty Southern comfort dish featuring savory ground beef, sweet corn, jalapeños, and diced tomatoes beneath a golden, fluffy cornbread topping melted with cheddar cheese. Quick and easy to prepare, it’s perfect for family meals or casual gatherings, offering a delicious balance of textures and flavors that appeal to all ages.

Ingredients

Scale

Filling Ingredients

  • 1 lb ground beef
  • 1 cup corn kernels (fresh or canned)
  • 1/2 cup jalapeños, chopped (adjust to taste)
  • 1 cup canned diced tomatoes
  • 1 small onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tsp ground cumin
  • 1 tsp chili powder
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper

Cornbread Topping Ingredients

  • 1 box cornbread mix (or gluten-free cornbread mix for gluten sensitivity)
  • 3/4 cup milk
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

Optional Garnishes

  • Fresh chopped cilantro
  • Sour cream
  • Sliced green onions

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Filling: Heat a skillet over medium heat. Sauté chopped onions and minced garlic until soft and fragrant. Add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. Stir in diced tomatoes, corn kernels, chopped jalapeños, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Let the mixture cook together for about 5 minutes to meld the flavors.
  2. Mix the Cornbread Batter: In a separate bowl, combine the cornbread mix with milk and eggs. Stir gently until just combined, taking care not to overmix to keep the topping light and fluffy.
  3. Assemble in a Baking Dish: Grease a casserole dish well. Transfer the cooked beef mixture evenly into the dish. Pour the cornbread batter evenly over the beef layer and smooth the top gently. Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the batter to create a golden cheesy crust.
  4. Bake to Perfection: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the casserole for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the cornbread topping is cooked through and golden brown. A toothpick inserted into the cornbread should come out clean.
  5. Let It Rest and Serve: Allow the casserole to cool for 5 to 10 minutes before serving. This helps the layers set nicely for clean slices and optimal flavor.

Notes

  • Use fresh corn and quality cheese to significantly elevate flavor.
  • Do not overmix the cornbread batter to ensure a light and tender topping.
  • Rest the casserole before serving for cleaner slicing and better structure.
  • Adjust spice level by varying the amount of jalapeños or chili powder.
  • Grease your baking dish thoroughly to prevent sticking and ease serving.

Nutrition

Keywords: cowboy cornbread casserole, southern comfort food, cornbread casserole, beef casserole, easy dinner, gluten free, weeknight meal

Find it online: https://marygourmet.com/cowboy-cornbread-casserole/