Cowboy Cornbread Casserole

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Delicious Cowboy Cornbread Casserole served in a dish with toppings

Cowboy Cornbread Casserole is a delicious and hearty dish that combines the flavors of Mexican cuisine with a comforting cornbread topping. This casserole features ground beef, beans, salsa, and cheese, all baked together for a satisfying meal. Perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or any gathering, this recipe is sure to please everyone at your table. With its blend of flavors and textures, Cowboy Cornbread Casserole brings warmth and satisfaction in every bite.

Why make this recipe

Making Cowboy Cornbread Casserole is a great choice for several reasons. First, it is simple to prepare. You can have it ready for the oven in about 20 minutes. Second, it is a one-pan meal, which means fewer dishes to wash after cooking. Third, this recipe is highly customizable. You can add your favorite vegetables or adjust the spices to suit your taste. Finally, this casserole is filling and nutritious, making it a wholesome choice for busy weeknights or leisurely weekends.

How to make Cowboy Cornbread Casserole

Creating Cowboy Cornbread Casserole requires straightforward steps. It will take about 20 minutes to prepare and 35-40 minutes to bake. This recipe serves about 6-8 people, depending on portion sizes.

Ingredients:

  • 1 1/2 pounds ground beef (680 grams)
  • 1 cup onion, diced (150 grams)
  • 3 tablespoons taco seasoning or 1 store-bought packet (40 grams)
  • 1 teaspoon salt (5 grams)
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper (2 grams)
  • 1 (14.5 ounce) can black beans, drained (410 grams)
  • 1 (14.5 ounce) can corn, drained (410 grams)
  • 24-ounce jar thick salsa (680 grams)
  • 4-ounce can green chiles (113 grams)
  • 2 cups shredded cheese (200 grams)
  • 1 (8.5 ounce) box Jiffy corn muffin mix (240 grams)
  • 1 (14 ounce) can creamed corn (400 grams)
  • 2 tablespoons milk (30 milliliters)
  • 1 egg
  • 1/4 cup sour cream (60 grams)

Directions:

  1. Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit (175 degrees Celsius).
  2. Heat a large, oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and diced onions to the skillet. Cook until the beef is browned, which should take about 6-7 minutes. Make sure to drain off any excess fat.
  3. Once the beef is cooked, add the taco seasoning, salt, black pepper, salsa, corn, black beans, and green chiles to the skillet. Mix all the ingredients together until they are well combined.
  4. Turn off the heat and evenly sprinkle the shredded cheese on top of the beef mixture.
  5. In a separate medium bowl, mix the Jiffy cornbread mix, creamed corn, milk, egg, and sour cream until everything is well blended.
  6. Spread the cornbread mixture evenly over the cheese layer in the skillet.
  7. Bake in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes or until the cornbread topping is cooked through and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
  8. Once baked, let the dish cool slightly before serving. Enjoy it with your favorite taco toppings, such as sour cream, avocado, or fresh cilantro.

How to serve Cowboy Cornbread Casserole

Cowboy Cornbread Casserole is versatile when it comes to serving. You can slice it like a pie and serve it directly from the skillet. Top each serving with fresh ingredients like chopped cilantro, diced tomatoes, sliced avocado, or a dollop of sour cream. This casserole pairs well with a simple green salad or some tortilla chips on the side for added crunch.

How to store Cowboy Cornbread Casserole

If you have leftovers, Cowboy Cornbread Casserole stores well. Allow the dish to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. You can store it in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze it. Wrap portions tightly with plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag. The casserole can be frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and then warm it in the oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit (175 degrees Celsius) until heated through.

Tips to make Cowboy Cornbread Casserole

  • Use lean ground beef to reduce excess fat in the dish. You can also substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option.
  • Feel free to add vegetables like bell peppers, jalapeños, or zucchini for extra nutrition and flavor.
  • If you prefer a spicier casserole, use hot salsa and add diced jalapeños or increase the amount of taco seasoning.
  • Customize the cheese by using a blend of cheddar, Monterey Jack, or pepper jack for added flavor.
  • If you can’t find Jiffy cornbread mix, you can make your own using flour, cornmeal, baking powder, sugar, and salt.

Variation (if any)

You can create several variations of Cowboy Cornbread Casserole to suit your taste. Consider replacing the ground beef with shredded chicken or cooked sausage. You could also make a vegetarian version by omitting the meat and adding more beans or hearty vegetables like mushrooms or spinach. Experiment with different types of salsa for variations in flavor, such as corn salsa or pineapple salsa for a sweet twist.

FAQs

1. Can I make Cowboy Cornbread Casserole ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the casserole a day in advance. Prepare the beef mixture and the cornbread batter separately. Assemble the dish the day of baking and adjust the baking time as needed.

2. Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, you can use a gluten-free cornbread mix to make this dish gluten-free. Ensure that other ingredients, such as salsa and taco seasoning, are also certified gluten-free.

3. What toppings can I use?

Toppings can vary according to your preference. You can use sour cream, shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, sliced olives, or avocado to add freshness to each serving.

4. How many calories are in a serving of Cowboy Cornbread Casserole?

One serving of Cowboy Cornbread Casserole contains approximately 500-600 calories. However, this number may vary depending on portion size and specific ingredients used.

5. Is Cowboy Cornbread Casserole suitable for meal prep?

Yes, this dish keeps well and is great for meal prep. You can portion out servings and store them for quick lunches or dinners throughout the week.

In conclusion, Cowboy Cornbread Casserole is a simple and satisfying dish that brings a delicious mix of flavors to your table. With minimal prep time and easy steps, it’s a great option for busy cooks who want a nutritious meal without the hassle. Try making Cowboy Cornbread Casserole for your next family dinner or gathering, and watch everyone enjoy this comforting comfort food.