Ground Beef And Cornbread Casserole

Name: Ground Beef And Cornbread Casserole
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 1 h
Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients: 1 pound ground beef; 1 medium onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 can (15 oz) corn, drained; 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes; 1 teaspoon chili powder; 1 teaspoon cumin; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 package (8.5 oz) cornbread mix; 1 egg; 1/3 cup milk

Highlighted under: Comfort Delights

I love making Ground Beef And Cornbread Casserole because it's a hearty comfort food that brings the whole family together. The combination of seasoned beef with rich cornbread topping creates a delightful experience with each bite. It’s simple to prepare and can easily be customized with your favorite vegetables or spices. Cooking it all in one dish not only saves time on cleanup but also lets the flavors meld beautifully. It's my go-to recipe for busy weeknights or when entertaining friends!

Created by

Gwendolyn Reed

Last updated on 2026-02-24T02:57:36.310Z

When I first discovered Ground Beef And Cornbread Casserole, it quickly became a staple in my kitchen. I remember the first time I served it at a family gathering; the aroma filled the air, and everyone couldn't wait to dig in. I used lean ground beef seasoned with garlic and onion for a savory foundation, which paired perfectly with the sweet cornbread topping that baked to a golden perfection.

One of my favorite tips is to let the casserole sit for a few minutes after baking. This allows the cornbread to set, making it easier to slice and serve. The leftovers are just as good, making it a fantastic meal-prep option for busy days ahead!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
A delightful blend of seasoned beef and sweet cornbread topping
Comfort food that the whole family will enjoy
Easy to customize with your favorite vegetables

Selecting the Perfect Beef

The type of ground beef you choose greatly influences the flavor and texture of this casserole. I recommend using 80/20 ground beef for a good balance of fat and lean meat, which keeps the dish moist without being overly greasy. Avoid using extra-lean varieties, as they may result in a dry casserole. If you're looking for a healthier option, ground turkey or chicken can also work well, but be sure to season them more generously to enhance their flavor.

When browning the beef, ensure your skillet is properly heated before adding the meat. This will help achieve a nice sear, which enhances the overall richness of the dish. Use a wooden spoon or spatula to break the meat into smaller pieces as it cooks. Look for a rich brown color—this caramelization adds depth to the flavor of the beef mixture.

Mastering the Cornbread Topping

The cornbread topping is not just a layer; it’s an essential component that should be fluffy and slightly sweet to complement the savory beef below. When preparing the cornbread mixture, be careful not to overmix—stirring until just combined ensures a lighter texture. A few lumps are okay and will create delightful pockets of texture when baked. If you want to add a twist, consider folding in shredded cheese or jalapeños to the cornbread batter for an extra kick.

Once the cornbread is baked, let the casserole sit for about 5 minutes before serving. This brief resting time allows the flavors to settle and makes it easier to cut portions without falling apart. The golden, slightly crisp edges of the cornbread not only enhance the presentation but also provide a pleasing contrast to the moist filling underneath.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients:

Ingredients for the Casserole

1 pound ground beef
1 medium onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 can (15 oz) corn, drained
1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
1 teaspoon chili powder
1 teaspoon cumin
Salt and pepper to taste
1 package (8.5 oz) cornbread mix
1 egg
1/3 cup milk

Mix well and set aside until ready to use.

Instructions

Follow these steps to prepare your casserole:

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) to prepare for baking.

Cook the Beef

In a skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned. Add in the chopped onion and minced garlic, cooking until the onion is translucent.

Combine Ingredients

Stir in the corn, diced tomatoes, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Mix everything well and remove from heat.

Prepare Cornbread Mixture

In a bowl, combine the cornbread mix, egg, and milk. Stir until just combined.

Assemble the Casserole

Pour the beef mixture into a greased baking dish, then pour the cornbread batter over the top, spreading it evenly.

Bake

Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the cornbread is golden and cooked through.

Let it cool slightly before serving to allow the casserole to set.

Pro Tips

For added flavor, consider adding spices like paprika or a dash of hot sauce to the beef mixture. You can also mix in vegetables like bell peppers or jalapeños for extra crunch and taste.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

If you want to prepare this casserole ahead of time, you can assemble it in the baking dish without baking it. Cover it tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. When you're ready to bake, simply remove it from the fridge, uncover it, and bake as directed. Just be aware that it might take a few extra minutes to cook through since it’ll be starting from a cooler temperature.

Leftover casserole can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes or until heated through, covering it with foil if it starts to brown too much on top. This casserole also freezes well; cut it into portions and freeze for up to three months.

Serving Suggestions

Ground Beef and Cornbread Casserole is a versatile dish that pairs wonderfully with a side salad or steamed vegetables to provide a fresh contrast to its richness. You can also serve it with a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of fresh cilantro for added flavor. For a fun twist, try serving it alongside some spicy pickled jalapeños or a tangy coleslaw, which can enhance the overall meal experience.

For an extra hit of flavor, consider drizzling a little barbecue sauce over individual servings before eating. This adds a lovely sweetness that complements the toppings beautifully. Making a larger batch allows for a delicious meal prep option, making this dish perfect for feeding a crowd or enjoying multiple meals throughout the week.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use turkey instead of beef?

Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great lean alternative.

→ How can I make this dish vegetarian?

Substitute the ground beef with black beans or lentils and use vegetable broth instead.

→ Can leftovers be frozen?

Yes, you can freeze leftovers for up to three months. Just reheat in the oven before serving.

→ What sides pair well with this casserole?

A simple side salad or steamed vegetables complement the dish perfectly.