Name: Cowboy Casserole
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Ingredients: 1.5 pounds lean ground beef; 1 onion, diced; 1 bell pepper, diced; 1 can pinto beans (16 ounces), drained; 1 can corn (15.25 ounces), drained; 1 can Rotel tomatoes with green chiles (10 ounces); 8 ounces tomato sauce, (1 small can); 3 tablespoons taco seasoning; 1 box Jiffy cornbread mix (8.5 ounces); 1 egg; 1 cup creamed corn; Sour cream; Cilantro

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There’s something incredibly comforting about a warm bowl of Cowboy Casserole. Growing up, my family had a tradition of gathering on chilly fall evenings for hearty meals that brought everyone together. This casserole became a staple, combining flavors and textures that truly warmed the soul. As the aroma wafted through our home, it was impossible not to feel a sense of nostalgia and happiness. I remember the laughter around the table as we dug into this delightful dish, where every bite was packed with ground beef, beans, and a delicious cornbread topping. Whether it was a casual weeknight or a festive gathering, Cowboy Casserole always seemed to fit the occasion perfectly.

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
35 mins

Prep Time:
15 mins

Cook Time:
20 mins

Difficulty:
Medium

Calories:
400 kcal

Protein:
25 g

Diet:
Gluten-Free, Low FODMAP

Fat:
15 g

Tools Used:
Saucepan, Skillet, Oven, Mixing Bowl, Baking Sheet, Chef’s Knife, Cutting Board

This recipe stands out for several reasons. First, it’s incredibly versatile. You can easily adjust the ingredients based on what you have on hand. Second, it’s a one-pan wonder that minimizes cleanup, which I always appreciate. The combination of ground beef, beans, and corn makes it a filling meal that your family will love. Plus, the cornbread topping adds that perfect touch of sweetness and texture, making it irresistible. Lastly, this casserole is not just delicious; it’s also a great way to feed a crowd without breaking the bank. Here are a few more reasons why I love making this dish and why you will too!

What Sets This Cowboy Casserole Apart

Comforting and Hearty

The blend of ingredients in Cowboy Casserole creates a warm, comforting dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With ground beef, onion, and bell pepper simmering together, the flavors meld beautifully, making every bite satisfying.

Easy to Prepare

This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights. With simple steps and minimal prep, you can have a delicious meal ready in no time. You can even prepare it ahead of time and bake it when you’re ready to eat!

Family-Friendly

Kids love this dish! The combination of meat, beans, and a sweet cornbread topping is always a hit with little ones. Even picky eaters will find it hard to resist.

Versatile Ingredients

You can easily customize Cowboy Casserole based on what’s in your pantry. Swap out pinto beans for black beans, or use ground turkey instead of ground beef. The possibilities are endless!

Great for Leftovers

This casserole reheats beautifully, making it perfect for meal prep. You can store leftover portions in the fridge for up to four days or freeze them for later. Just warm it up, and you’ve got a quick meal ready to go!

Main Ingredients for Cowboy Casserole

The ingredients in Cowboy Casserole are what make it so special. Each component plays a crucial role in creating the hearty, comforting flavors that make this dish a family favorite. The combination of ground beef, beans, and a delightful cornbread topping ensures that each bite is satisfying and packed with flavor. Let’s explore the key players in this delicious casserole.

1.5 pounds lean ground beef: This is the star of the dish, providing protein and richness.
1 onion, diced: Adds sweetness and depth of flavor.
1 bell pepper, diced: Contributes a fresh crunch and vibrant color.
1 can pinto beans (16 ounces), drained: Provides fiber and heartiness.
1 can corn (15.25 ounces), drained: Adds sweetness and texture.
1 can Rotel tomatoes with green chiles (10 ounces): Brings a zesty kick.
8 ounces tomato sauce, (1 small can): Incorporates moisture and flavor.
3 tablespoons taco seasoning: Perfectly spices up the dish.
1 box Jiffy cornbread mix (8.5 ounces): For the sweet and fluffy topping.
1 egg: Binds the cornbread mixture together.
1 cup creamed corn: Adds moisture and sweetness.
Sour cream: For serving, enhances creaminess.
Cilantro: Fresh garnish that adds a pop of flavor.

The Method for Cowboy Casserole

Making Cowboy Casserole is a straightforward process that yields delicious results. Follow these steps to create a flavorful and hearty dish your family will love. Let’s get cooking!

Preheat your oven to 375˚F. This ensures that your casserole bakes evenly and thoroughly.
In a medium bowl, prepare the cornbread topping. Mix together the Jiffy cornbread mix, egg, and creamed corn until just combined. Set this mixture aside while you prepare the filling.
In a large, oven-safe skillet, add the ground beef, onion, and bell pepper. Cook on medium-high heat, stirring frequently, until the beef is browned and the onion and peppers are soft, about 5 to 7 minutes. Make sure to drain any excess grease to keep your casserole from being too oily.
Reduce the heat to low, and add in the drained pinto beans, drained corn, Rotel tomatoes, tomato sauce, and taco seasoning. Stir well to combine all the ingredients and let them simmer for about 3 to 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
Spread the prepared cornbread mixture evenly over the top of the beef and bean mixture in the skillet. Make sure to cover the beef mixture as evenly as possible with a thin layer of cornbread.
Transfer the skillet to the oven and bake for 18 to 22 minutes, or until the cornbread topping is set and lightly golden. Keep an eye on it to prevent overbaking.
Once baked, remove the skillet from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. This will make it easier to serve.
Serve warm with a generous dollop of sour cream on top and a sprinkle of cilantro for a fresh burst of flavor!

Things Worth Knowing

Use high-quality beef: It’s essential to use quality ground beef for the best flavor. Lean cuts work well and reduce excess grease.
Customize your toppings: Feel free to add your favorite toppings, such as jalapeños or cheese, for added flavor.
Cooking time may vary: Ovens can vary, so keep an eye on the casserole to ensure the cornbread topping is baked perfectly.
Let it rest: Allowing the casserole to sit for a few minutes before serving allows for easier slicing and serving.

Pro Tips and Tweaks

Here are some helpful tips to ensure your Cowboy Casserole turns out perfectly every time! Whether you’re making it for a family dinner or a gathering, these tweaks can make a difference.

Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 to 4 days. This will keep your casserole fresh and ready to enjoy again.
Freezing: This casserole freezes well, either before or after baking. Just make sure to store it in a freezer-safe container, and it can last for up to three months.
Pairing: Serve it alongside a simple green salad or some crusty bread to balance the richness of the casserole.
Scaling: This recipe can easily be doubled for a large crowd or halved for smaller portions. Just adjust your skillet size accordingly.
Variations: Feel free to swap pinto beans for black beans, or use ground turkey instead of ground beef for a different flavor.

Serve This Cowboy Casserole With

When it comes to serving Cowboy Casserole, the options are plentiful. Here are some ideas to consider:

Fresh Green Salad: A crisp salad provides a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the casserole.
Garlic Bread: Pairing it with warm, buttery garlic bread makes for a satisfying meal.
Coleslaw: A crunchy coleslaw adds a delightful texture and flavor that complements the casserole.
Chips and Salsa: For an appetizer, serve tortilla chips with salsa while the casserole bakes.
Occasions: This dish is perfect for casual family dinners, potlucks, or even game day gatherings.
Storage Tips: Make sure to refrigerate leftovers promptly to keep them fresh.

FAQ

Absolutely! You can prepare the Cowboy Casserole up to a day ahead. Just assemble the dish and cover it in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to bake, let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before you pop it in the oven. This will help it cook evenly. It’s a fantastic time saver for busy weeknights or family gatherings!

This dish pairs wonderfully with a simple green salad, crusty bread, or even coleslaw for a refreshing crunch. You can also serve it with tortilla chips and salsa as an appetizer while the casserole bakes. The options are endless, and it’s great for potlucks and gatherings!

Yes, Cowboy Casserole freezes beautifully! You can freeze it before or after baking. Just make sure to use an airtight container or wrap it tightly in foil. When you’re ready to eat it, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight, then reheat it in the oven until it’s heated through. It’s perfect for meal prepping!

Leftovers of Cowboy Casserole will last for about 3 to 4 days in the refrigerator when stored in an airtight container. Be sure to cool it to room temperature before sealing it up. For best quality, reheat it gently in the oven or microwave until warmed through.

Conclusion

Cowboy Casserole is truly special, bringing together hearty flavors and comfort in one delicious dish. It’s perfect for feeding a crowd or enjoying leftovers throughout the week. I encourage you to try making this delightful casserole for your next family meal; I promise it will be a hit!