Easy Cowboy Cornbread Casserole with Ground Beef

cowboy cornbread casserole in a cast iron skillet

5 from 3 votes

Easy Cowboy Cornbread Casserole with Ground Beef

This cozy, hearty Cowboy Cornbread Casserole is packed with ground beef, chili beans, canned veggies, and spices, then topped with a sweet and fluffy cornbread topping and shredded cheddar cheese. A filling, satisfying meal that comes together in about 30 minutes!

Prep Time5

Cook Time25

Course: Main Dish

Servings:

Ingredients

1 1/2 -2 pounds ground beef
1 15 oz box gluten-free cornbread prepared according to the package
1 tbsp olive oil
1 small onion diced
3 cloves garlic minced
2 tbsp taco seasoning or 1 packet store-bought
15 ounce can corn drained
15 ounce can chili beans drained
15 ounce can diced tomatoes undrained
1-2 cups shredded cheddar cheese

Instructions

Preheat the oven to 375°F.
In a large cast iron skillet, add a little olive oil and sauté the onions and garlic until fragrant. Brown the ground beef. Drain excess fat, then add the taco seasoning.
To the beef add the corn, black beans, and diced tomatoes. Mix together. Either keep it in the cast iron skillet or transfer the mixture to a greased casserole dish.
Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the mixture. Mix the cornbread according to the package. Top the beef mixture with the cornbread mixture. Spread evenly.
Bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes or until the cornbread is golden brown and the casserole is bubbly.
Let it cool slightly before serving, enjoy!

Notes

Expert Tips

- I sub Greek yogurt for the oil in the boxed cornbread mix. It cuts the calories and fat count dramatically.
- Feel free to add additional ingredients if desired. I’ve seen this recipe also include bell peppers, taco seasoning, garlic powder, etc! It’s quite forgiving, so play around and find your favorite tastes and flavors.

- If you feel like the top is getting too dark, feel free to cover the casserole dish with aluminum foil and take it off about 10 minutes before it finishes cooking.

- You can make this a one-pan dish by using a cast iron skillet or another skillet that is oven-safe.

- See nutrition facts in the printable recipe card below!
- I like using Honey cornbread because it gives the dish a touch of sweetness.

Serving Tips

Serve with a dollop of sour cream, a drizzle of honey, or other favorite toppings!

Storage Tips

Store leftover cowboy cornbread casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat leftovers in the microwave and serve with your favorite toppings.

Nutrition