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Hearty Cowboy Cornbread Casserole: A Delicious One-Pan Wonder

cious One-Pan Wonder Do you ever find yourself craving comfort food that feels like a big warm hug? Look no further than the Hearty Cowboy Cornbread Casserole! This dish is creamy, flavorful, and incredibly satisfying—perfect for cozy family dinners or casual get-togethers with friends. What makes it even more appealing is that it’s simple to prepare, making it an ideal choice for weeknight meals. A delightful mishmash of ingredients comes together to create a dish that not only fills your belly but also warms your heart. Fun fact: Cornbread has roots in Southern cooking, where it has been a staple for centuries. It brings with it a sense of nostalgia, reminding many of the warm kitchens where families gathered to enjoy hearty meals together. If you love this recipe, you might also enjoy our soul-soothing Southern Cornmeal Hoecakes! So grab your apron and get ready; your taste buds are in for a treat with this hearty casserole
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Ingredients
  

  • 1 pound ground beef
  • 1 onion chopped
  • 1 green bell pepper chopped
  • 1 15 ounce can pinto beans, rinsed and drained
  • 1 15 ounce can whole kernel corn, drained
  • 1 10 ounce can Rotel tomatoes, undrained
  • 1 packet taco seasoning
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 cup yellow cornmeal
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 cup sugar
  • 1 tablespoon baking powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1 egg
  • 1 cup buttermilk
  • 1/4 cup vegetable oil

Instructions
 

  • Cook the Beef Mixture: In a large skillet, brown the ground beef with the chopped onion over medium heat. Drain any excess grease, then add in the chopped bell pepper, pinto beans, drained corn, undrained Rotel tomatoes, and taco seasoning. Season with salt and pepper and stir to combine.
  • Prepare the Cornbread Topping: In a separate bowl, whisk together the yellow cornmeal, all-purpose flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Add in the egg, buttermilk, and vegetable oil, mixing until just combined.
  • Assemble the Casserole: Pour the beef mixture into a 9x13 inch baking dish, spreading it out evenly. Then, top it with the cornbread batter, ensuring it covers the beef mixture.
  • Bake: Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 30-35 minutes, or until the cornbread topping is golden brown and the filling is bubbly.
  • And there you have it—your Hearty Cowboy Cornbread Casserole is ready to serve!
  • What to Serve Hearty Cowboy Cornbread Casserole With:
  • This casserole pairs perfectly with a fresh garden salad or some sautéed greens for a balanced meal. For a touch of indulgence, serve it alongside garlic bread or homemade coleslaw. To wash it down, consider refreshing iced tea or a light beer, which complements the robust flavors of the casserole wonderfully.
  • Top Tips for Perfecting Hearty Cowboy Cornbread Casserole:
  • Ingredient Substitutions: Feel free to swap the ground beef for turkey or even a plant-based meat substitute for a lighter version. You can also customize the beans or use different types of tomatoes for added flavor.
  • Timing Adjustments: Keep an eye on the casserole toward the end of the baking time. Each oven is unique, and you may want to adjust the timing for achieving that perfect golden crust.
  • Avoiding Common Mistakes: Make sure to drain your canned ingredients well; excess moisture can make the casserole too soggy. And remember, don’t skip the resting time after baking—allowing it to sit for a few minutes enhances the layers of flavor!
  • Storing and Reheating Tips:
  • If you find you'll have some leftovers (which might be hard because it’s so good), store your Hearty Cowboy Cornbread Casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 3-4 days. For long-term storage, consider freezing individual portions in freezer bags for up to 3 months.
  • To reheat, simply pop it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes or until warmed through. If frozen, let it thaw in the refrigerator overnight for best results before reheating.
  • Now that you’re equipped with everything you need to create this delightful dish, gather the ingredients and get cooking! Your family and friends will be raving about it for days to come!