I first discovered this recipe when I needed a one-dish dinner that wouldn’t leave a pile of dishes behind. After the first bite, my family was hooked.

Now, it’s a regular on our dinner table and the perfect meal for those busy weeknights when you crave something homemade but quick to pull together. Let’s dive in!

Why You’ll Love This Cowboy Cornbread Casserole

Get ready to fall head over boots for this Cowboy Cornbread Casserole! It’s a wholesome, easy-to-make meal that satisfies even the pickiest eaters.

First, this recipe is the ultimate comfort food. Layers of seasoned beef, savory beans, and sweet cornbread create a satisfying medley of flavors and textures. Each bite is like a little taste of the Wild West.

Second, it’s incredibly quick and simple. With just a few pantry staples and one skillet, you can have this dish prepped and ready for the oven in no time. It's perfect for those nights when you need something hearty but can’t spend hours in the kitchen.

Plus, it’s kid-approved! The slightly sweet cornbread topping balances the smoky, savory filling, making it a hit with little ones and grown-ups alike. Bonus? It reheats beautifully for leftovers.

Finally, this recipe is highly adaptable. Want to make it spicy? Add jalapeños. Need to stretch it for a larger crowd? Double the recipe and bake it in a larger dish. It’s as flexible as it is delicious.

Ingredients Notes

The beauty of Cowboy Cornbread Casserole lies in its simple, budget-friendly ingredients. Let’s break them down:

Ground Beef: The foundation of the casserole, adding rich, savory flavor. Opt for 80/20 ground beef for a balance of flavor and minimal grease.
Beans: Black beans or pinto beans work great here. They add heartiness and a hint of creaminess to the filling. Rinse and drain canned beans for the best results.
Cornbread Mix: The sweet, fluffy topping is made easy with a box of Jiffy Cornbread Mix. If you prefer homemade cornbread, go for it!
Tomato Sauce and Diced Tomatoes with Green Chilies: These ingredients bring tanginess and a mild kick. For extra heat, swap in a spicier brand of diced tomatoes.
Cheese: Shredded cheddar cheese melts beautifully into the filling, adding a gooey, savory layer.
Seasonings: A mix of chili powder, cumin, and garlic powder amps up the flavor, giving the filling a classic Tex-Mex vibe.

You’ll also need a 9x13 baking dish and a skillet to cook the beef. Easy cleanup, guaranteed!

How To Make This Cowboy Cornbread Casserole

Creating this Cowboy Cornbread Casserole is as easy as lassoing a steer! Let me walk you through it step by step:

Prepare the Filling
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F. While the oven heats, cook 1 lb of ground beef in a large skillet over medium heat until browned. Drain excess grease and stir in the diced tomatoes with green chilies, tomato sauce, beans, and spices. Simmer for 5-7 minutes to let the flavors meld.
Assemble the Casserole
Spread the beef mixture evenly in a greased 9x13 baking dish. Sprinkle a generous layer of shredded cheddar cheese over the filling. This will melt into gooey perfection as the casserole bakes.
Add the Cornbread Topping
Prepare the Jiffy Cornbread Mix according to package instructions (typically with 1 egg and ⅓ cup milk). Pour the cornbread batter over the cheese layer, spreading it evenly to cover the filling completely.
Bake to Perfection
Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cornbread is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Total time? Just under 40 minutes for a dinner that tastes like you’ve been cooking all day.

Storage Options

Leftovers? No problem! Cowboy Cornbread Casserole is just as good the next day.

Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Freeze: This casserole freezes beautifully. Wrap individual portions tightly in plastic wrap, then foil, and freeze for up to 3 months.
Reheat: For best results, reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through. If you’re in a rush, the microwave works too—just cover the dish with a damp paper towel to keep the cornbread moist.

Variations and Substitutions

One of the best things about this Cowboy Cornbread Casserole is how easy it is to customize. Here are a few ideas:

Spicy Kick: Add chopped jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce to the filling for extra heat.
Vegetarian Option: Swap the ground beef for a plant-based alternative or more beans, like kidney beans or chickpeas.
Different Cheeses: Try a blend of pepper jack and Monterey jack for a melty, slightly spicy twist.
Cornbread from Scratch: Replace the boxed mix with homemade cornbread batter for a personal touch.
Taco-Inspired: Add taco seasoning to the beef and serve with sour cream and avocado on the side.

Don’t be afraid to experiment! This recipe is a blank canvas for your creativity.

Cowboy Cornbread Casserole is the kind of meal that brings people together. It’s hearty, flavorful, and incredibly simple to make. Whether you’re cooking for your family or hosting a casual dinner with friends, this dish is sure to impress. So grab your skillet and baking dish—it’s time to dig in!