Cowboy Cornbread Casserole is a fantastic dish that combines the heartiness of cornbread with a mix of tasty ingredients like meat, beans, and cheese. It’s perfect for gatherings, family dinners, or a cozy night in. This recipe is not only simple to make, but it also provides a complete meal all in one dish. The layers of flavors and textures make it a satisfying option that everyone will enjoy.
how to make Cowboy Cornbread Casserole
Ingredients:
- 1 box cornbread mix
- 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup corn (fresh, frozen, or canned)
- 1 cup cooked ground beef or sausage
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or Mexican blend)
- 1 small onion, diced
- 1 bell pepper, diced
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup milk
Directions:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
- In a bowl, combine cornbread mix, milk, and eggs. Stir until just combined.
- In a separate skillet, sauté the onion and bell pepper until soft. Add the ground meat, black beans, corn, spices, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
- Pour half of the cornbread batter into the prepared baking dish. Top with the meat and veggie mixture, sprinkle cheese on top, then pour the remaining cornbread batter over everything.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown. Let it cool slightly before serving.
how to serve Cowboy Cornbread Casserole
Serve Cowboy Cornbread Casserole warm, straight from the baking dish. It pairs well with a fresh salad or some sliced avocado. You can top it with sour cream or salsa for extra flavor. This dish is fun to share, so consider serving it at gatherings or potlucks where everyone can enjoy a hearty slice.
how to store Cowboy Cornbread Casserole
To store leftovers, let the casserole cool completely. Then place it in an airtight container in the fridge. It can stay fresh for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can freeze it. Wrap the casserole tightly with plastic wrap and then aluminum foil. It can last up to 2 months in the freezer. To reheat, thaw in the fridge overnight and then warm in the oven or microwave.
tips to make Cowboy Cornbread Casserole
- For extra flavor, add some diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce to the meat mixture.
- You can substitute turkey or chicken for the beef or sausage if you prefer a leaner option.
- If you want a spicier casserole, increase the amount of chili powder or add some crushed red pepper flakes.
- Feel free to mix in other vegetables like zucchini or spinach for added nutrition.
variation
You can make a vegetarian version by omitting the meat and adding more beans or vegetables. This keeps the dish hearty while still being meat-free.
FAQs
1. Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole the night before and store it in the fridge. When you’re ready, just bake it in the oven.
2. Can I use a different type of cheese?
Absolutely! You can use any cheese you like, such as Monterey Jack, pepper jack, or even a combination of your favorites.
3. What if I don’t have black beans?
You can replace black beans with kidney beans, pinto beans, or any other beans you have on hand. The flavor will still be delicious!
Cowboy Cornbread Casserole
Ingredients
For the Casserole
- 1 box cornbread mix
- 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup corn (fresh, frozen, or canned)
- 1 cup cooked ground beef or sausage
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or Mexican blend)
- 1 small onion, diced
- 1 medium bell pepper, diced
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- to taste Salt and pepper
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup milk
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Grease a 9x13 inch baking dish.
- In a bowl, combine cornbread mix, milk, and eggs. Stir until just combined.
- In a separate skillet, sauté the onion and bell pepper until soft.
- Add the ground meat, black beans, corn, spices, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
Assembly
- Pour half of the cornbread batter into the prepared baking dish.
- Top with the meat and veggie mixture, sprinkle cheese on top, then pour the remaining cornbread batter over everything.
Baking
- Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
- Let it cool slightly before serving.
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