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A Flavor-Packed Southern Favorite with Ground Beef, Corn, and Beans

Cowboy Cornbread Casserole​


  • Author: Emma Hart
  • Total Time: 45 minutes
  • Yield: 68 servings 1x

Description

Cowboy Cornbread Casserole is a hearty, family-friendly dish that layers flavorful ground beef, beans, corn, and zesty salsa under a rich and moist cornbread topping. It’s the ultimate comfort food easy to throw together with pantry staples and perfect for busy weeknights or feeding a crowd. With bold Tex-Mex flavors and a gooey cheesy finish, this casserole is always a hit at the table and even better the next day.


Ingredients

Scale

Ground Beef Filling

2 pounds lean ground beef
1 (14 oz) can canned corn, drained
1 (14.5 oz) can canned kidney beans, drained
2 cups salsa
1 (1 oz) packet taco seasoning
1 cup water
1 teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
½ teaspoon garlic powder
1 ½ cups shredded Colby Jack cheese

Cornbread Topping

1 (8.5 oz) box Jiffy corn muffin mix
1 (8.25 oz) can creamed corn
2 tablespoons milk
¼ cup sour cream


Instructions

  • Make the Beef Filling
    In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until fully browned. Drain excess fat, then add corn, kidney beans, salsa, taco seasoning, water, salt, black pepper, and garlic powder. Stir and let the mixture simmer for 5–7 minutes until slightly thickened and well combined.

  • Mix the Cornbread Topping
    In a mixing bowl, combine the Jiffy corn muffin mix, creamed corn, milk, and sour cream. Stir until just combined avoid overmixing to keep the topping tender.

  • Assemble the Casserole
    Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. Pour the beef filling evenly into the dish. Sprinkle 1 cup of shredded cheese over the top of the filling. Gently spoon and spread the cornbread mixture over the top.

  • Bake
    Bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes, or until the cornbread is golden brown and cooked through. A toothpick inserted in the center should come out clean.

  • Rest and Serve
    Let the casserole sit for 10–15 minutes before serving. This allows the layers to firm up and makes slicing easier. Serve with sour cream, chopped cilantro, or sliced jalapeños if desired.

Notes

  • Salsa tip: Choose a chunky salsa for extra texture, or mild if you’re cooking for kids.

  • Storage: Leftovers store well in the fridge for up to 4 days and reheat beautifully in the oven or microwave.

  • Cornbread texture: The creamed corn makes the topping extra moist no egg needed!

  • Serving suggestion: Pair with a simple green salad or avocado slices for a complete meal.

  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Category: Dinner
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 slice
  • Calories: 510
  • Sugar: 8g
  • Sodium: 720mg
  • Fat: 26g
  • Saturated Fat: 11g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 13g
  • Carbohydrates: 42g
  • Fiber: 4g
  • Protein: 30g
  • Cholesterol: 90mg

Keywords: cowboy casserole, cornbread casserole, taco casserole, ground beef dinner, Tex-Mex casserole, Jiffy cornbread recipes, cheesy baked casserole