This Beef Cornbread Casserole is a warm and hearty dish, perfect for a family dinner. It’s filled with tasty ground beef, beans, and topped with a fluffy cornbread layer!
I love how easy it is to prepare—just mix it all up, bake, and enjoy! Plus, it makes my kitchen smell amazing while cooking. Who could resist a dish like this? 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: This is the star of the dish! You can use lean ground beef for less grease. Alternatively, ground turkey or chicken works if you’re looking for a lighter meal.
Beans: Chili beans bring flavor and fiber. If you don’t have them, use black beans or pinto beans as a substitute. Canned beans make this recipe quick and simple.
Onion: A small onion adds a nice base flavor. If you’re out of fresh onions, consider onion powder, about 1 tsp, for quick flavor without the chopping.
Cornbread Mix: Jiffy mix is popular, but store brands work too. If you want a homemade touch, you can make your own cornbread from scratch using cornmeal, flour, sugar, and baking powder.
Cheese: I like cheddar for its sharp flavor. Feel free to use Monterey Jack or mozzarella for a milder taste. Vegan cheese can substitute if you’re avoiding dairy.
How Can You Make Sure Your Casserole Cooks Evenly?
To ensure your Beef Cornbread Casserole cooks evenly, follow these tips:
- Cook the beef mixture thoroughly before layering. This helps eliminate excess moisture that may make the cornbread soggy.
- Spread the cornbread batter gently over the beef, covering the sides to prevent steam from escaping.
- Check for doneness by inserting a toothpick in the cornbread section. If it comes out clean, it’s ready!
Allowing it to cool for a few minutes after baking helps to set everything perfectly. Happy baking!
Beef Cornbread Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Beef Filling:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 can (15 oz) chili beans or kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes (optional)
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1/2 tsp ground cumin
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tbsp vegetable oil or butter for cooking
For the Cornbread Topping:
- 1 packet (8.5 oz) cornbread mix (such as Jiffy)
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese (plus extra for topping)
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1 egg
How Much Time Will You Need?
This comforting Beef Cornbread Casserole takes about 15 minutes of prep time and 25-30 minutes to bake. So, in total, you’re looking at around 45 minutes from start to finish! It’s quick and easy, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This will ensure it’s hot and ready for your casserole when it’s time to bake!
2. Sauté the Onion:
In a large skillet over medium heat, add the vegetable oil or butter. Toss in the chopped onion and sauté until it’s softened, about 3-4 minutes. This makes the base flavor just right!
3. Cook the Ground Beef:
Add the ground beef to the skillet. Cook it while breaking it up with a spoon until it’s nicely browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. If there’s any excess fat, drain it off before continuing.
4. Season the Beef:
Stir in the chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, salt, and pepper to taste. Mix it well to let all the flavors come together.
5. Add Beans and Tomatoes:
Now, it’s time to add the chili beans and diced tomatoes (if using) to your beef mixture. Stir everything together and heat for another 2-3 minutes. Once it’s all nicely combined, remove from heat.
6. Prepare the Cornbread Batter:
In a mixing bowl, prepare the cornbread batter as per the package instructions. Mix together the cornbread mix with the milk and egg, stirring gently until just combined.
7. Mix in the Cheese:
Fold in the shredded cheddar cheese into the cornbread batter. This will give your casserole a cheesy twist that you’re going to love!
8. Assemble the Casserole:
Pour the beef and bean mixture into a greased 9-inch round or square casserole dish, spreading it out evenly across the bottom. Then, carefully spoon the cornbread batter over the beef, spreading it out to cover the entire surface.
9. Add Extra Cheese:
If you’re feeling cheesy, sprinkle a bit more shredded cheddar cheese on top of the cornbread batter for an extra touch!
10. Bake:
Place your casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the cornbread topping is golden brown and a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
11. Cool and Serve:
Once it’s out of the oven, let your casserole cool for a few minutes before serving. This will help it set, making it easier to scoop out portions. Enjoy the flavorful combination of beef and fluffy cornbread!
Enjoy Your Meal!
This Beef Cornbread Casserole is warm, satisfying, and perfect for sharing with family and friends. Serve it up and enjoy every delicious bite!
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great leaner option that works perfectly in this casserole. Just be sure to season it well to enhance the flavor, as it tends to be milder than beef.
What Can I Use If I Don’t Have Cornbread Mix?
You can make your own cornbread batter using a mixture of cornmeal, flour, sugar, baking powder, milk, and an egg. Look online for a simple homemade cornbread recipe to suit your taste.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, you can microwave portions or place it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through.
Can I Add Vegetables to This Recipe?
Definitely! You can add veggies like bell peppers, corn, or zucchini to the beef mixture for extra nutrition and flavor. Just chop them finely and sauté them along with the onion.