Get ready to saddle up for a taste adventure with this Flavorful Cowboy Cornbread Casserole recipe! Combining the bold flavors of Tex-Mex cuisine with the comforting goodness of cornbread, this hearty casserole is sure to become a family favorite. Packed with ground beef, black beans, corn, and zesty Rotel tomatoes, this dish is as satisfying as it is delicious. Whether you’re hosting a casual gathering or simply craving some hearty comfort food, this cowboy cornbread casserole is sure to hit the spot.
Ingredients:
- Meat:
- 1 1/2 lbs Ground beef
- Produce:
- 1 can Black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 15.25-ounce can Corn, whole kernel, drained
- 1 tbsp Garlic, minced
- 1/2 Onion (white or yellow onion), diced
- 1 can Rotel diced tomatoes and green chiles
- Refrigerated:
- 2 Eggs
- Baking & Spices:
- 1 1 ounce package Taco seasoning
- Oils & Vinegars:
- 1/2 cup Vegetable oil
- Bread & Baked Goods:
- 2 boxes Jiffy cornbread mix
- Dairy:
- 2/3 cup Milk
- 1 cup Sour cream
Instructions:
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish and set aside.
- Prepare the Cornbread Batter: In a large mixing bowl, prepare the cornbread batter according to the instructions on the Jiffy cornbread mix boxes. Typically, this involves mixing the cornbread mix with eggs, milk, and vegetable oil until well combined.
- Cook the Ground Beef: In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned and cooked through. Drain any excess fat.
- Saute the Aromatics: In the same skillet, add the diced onion and minced garlic. Cook until softened and fragrant, about 2-3 minutes.
- Combine the Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked ground beef, black beans, corn, Rotel tomatoes, sauteed onions and garlic, and taco seasoning. Mix until well combined.
- Layer the Casserole: Spread the ground beef mixture evenly in the prepared baking dish. Pour the prepared cornbread batter over the top, spreading it out to cover the entire surface.
- Bake to Perfection: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the cornbread is golden brown and cooked through.
- Serve and Enjoy: Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving. Serve with a dollop of sour cream on top, if desired.
Cook’s Notes and Variations:
- Cheesy Upgrade: Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the top of the casserole during the last 5 minutes of baking for an extra cheesy finish.
- Add Heat: For a spicier version, add chopped jalapenos or a dash of hot sauce to the ground beef mixture.
- Vegetarian Option: Omit the ground beef and substitute it with additional black beans or your favorite plant-based meat alternative for a vegetarian-friendly version of this casserole.
Keto and Low Carb Versions:
- Keto Option: Replace the Jiffy cornbread mix with a keto-friendly cornbread mix or make your own using almond flour and coconut flour. Use a low-carb taco seasoning or make your own blend using spices like chili powder, cumin, and paprika. Substitute black soybeans for black beans to reduce the carb count.
- Low Carb Hack: Replace the cornbread entirely with a mixture of cauliflower rice, almond flour, and eggs seasoned with taco seasoning for a low-carb alternative. Adjust the baking time accordingly to ensure the cauliflower rice cooks through.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs): Q: Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef? A: Yes, ground turkey can be used as a leaner alternative to ground beef in this recipe. Just be sure to cook it thoroughly until no longer pink.
Q: Can I make this casserole ahead of time? A: Absolutely! You can assemble the casserole up to one day in advance, cover it tightly with plastic wrap, and refrigerate until ready to bake. Allow it to come to room temperature for about 30 minutes before baking.
Q: Can I freeze leftovers of this casserole? A: Yes, this casserole freezes well. Once cooled, cut it into individual portions, wrap them tightly in aluminum foil or plastic wrap, and place them in a freezer-safe container. To reheat, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight and warm in the oven or microwave until heated through.
In conclusion, this Cowboy Cornbread Casserole is a true crowd-pleaser that brings together the flavors of the Wild West in every bite. Whether enjoyed for a cozy family dinner or a festive gathering with friends, this hearty casserole is sure to satisfy even the heartiest appetites. With its simple preparation and delicious combination of ingredients, it’s easy to see why this dish is a favorite in households everywhere. So gather your ingredients and get ready to embark on a flavor-filled journey with this delicious cowboy-inspired casserole!
