Ground Beef And Cornbread Casserole

Name: Ground Beef And Cornbread Casserole
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients: 1 lb ground beef; 1 medium onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup corn kernels (fresh, frozen, or canned); 1 can diced tomatoes (14.5 oz), drained; 1 tsp chili powder; 1 tsp cumin; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 box cornbread mix (8.5 oz); 1 egg; 1/3 cup milk; 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or your choice)

Highlighted under: Soulful Meals

I absolutely love making Ground Beef and Cornbread Casserole for my family, especially on busy weeknights. It’s quick to whip up, and the combination of savory ground beef with sweet, fluffy cornbread is simply irresistible. I think what makes this dish so special is how it brings everyone together at the table. You can customize it by adding your favorite veggies or spices, making it a versatile recipe that adapts to whatever you have on hand. Trust me, it will become a family favorite in no time!

Created by

Penelope Dawson

Last updated on 2026-02-23T21:57:36.734Z

When I first created this Ground Beef and Cornbread Casserole, I wanted something hearty that would please my picky eaters. The layers of seasoned ground beef and the soft cornbread topping create a comforting dish that’s perfect for cooler evenings. I found that browning the beef with onions and garlic before adding the cornbread mix elevates the flavors significantly.

One tip I discovered is to let the casserole sit for a few minutes after baking. This not only helps it set nicely but allows the flavors to meld together beautifully. Serve it hot with a side salad for a complete meal that everyone will love!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Hearty and comforting flavor combinations
Simple prep with plenty of room for creativity
Perfect for feeding a crowd or freezing leftovers

Maximizing Flavor in Your Casserole

The key to enhancing the flavor of your Ground Beef and Cornbread Casserole lies in the seasoning. While chili powder and cumin provide a solid base, consider experimenting with smoked paprika or a dash of cayenne for heat. These spices not only complement the beef but also elevate the overall dish. Feel free to adjust the seasoning to match your taste preference; just remember to taste as you go. If you prefer a milder flavor, you can always start with half the spices and add more gradually.

To ensure your beef mixture doesn't become too watery, be mindful of the moisture in the diced tomatoes and corn you're using. If you're using fresh corn, sauté it a bit before adding it to the mix. A slightly thicker mixture will hold its shape better once baked, providing a satisfying bite instead of a mushy texture. A great tip is to let your beef mixture cool for a few minutes after cooking, which will help it absorb those flavors before assembly.

Perfecting the Cornbread Topping

When preparing the cornbread topping, consider adding extra ingredients for a boost of texture and flavor. Chopped jalapeños, bits of cooked bacon, or even some grated zucchini can add an unexpected twist. Just make sure that any added moisture doesn’t overpower the cornbread batter, or it could affect the oven time. Additionally, for a slightly sweet flavor that contrasts well with the savory beef, you could mix in a tablespoon of honey or maple syrup into the cornbread batter.

To ensure the cornbread bakes evenly, pour it over the beef mixture gently using a spatula, allowing it to settle and fill in any gaps. This technique minimizes the need for excessive stirring, which could disrupt the cornbread's fluffy texture. Visual cues are important here; the cornbread should develop a beautiful golden-brown top during baking, which indicates it is cooked through. If you find the top is browning too quickly, you can cover it loosely with aluminum foil midway through baking.

Ingredients

For the Casserole

1 lb ground beef
1 medium onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup corn kernels (fresh, frozen, or canned)
1 can diced tomatoes (14.5 oz), drained
1 tsp chili powder
1 tsp cumin
Salt and pepper to taste
1 box cornbread mix (8.5 oz)
1 egg
1/3 cup milk
1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or your choice)

Instructions

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).

Cook the Beef Mixture

In a large skillet, brown the ground beef over medium-high heat. Drain excess fat. Add chopped onion and garlic, cooking until the onion becomes translucent. Stir in corn, diced tomatoes, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper, mixing well to combine.

Prepare the Cornbread Topping

In a bowl, prepare the cornbread mix according to package instructions, incorporating the egg and milk.

Assemble the Casserole

Spread the beef mixture evenly in a greased baking dish. Pour the cornbread batter over the top, ensuring even coverage. Sprinkle shredded cheese on top of the cornbread layer.

Bake the Casserole

Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for about 30 minutes, or until the cornbread is golden and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Let it Rest

Remove the casserole from the oven and let it sit for 5-10 minutes before slicing. Serve warm.

Pro Tips

Feel free to customize the filling by adding vegetables like bell peppers or swapping ground beef for ground turkey for a lighter option.

Storing and Reheating

After enjoying your Ground Beef and Cornbread Casserole, you may find yourself with leftovers. Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To keep the cornbread moist, you can cover it with plastic wrap before sealing it in the container. If you want to make it ahead, assemble the casserole but hold off on baking it. Instead, refrigerate it uncooked for up to a day and pop it in the oven when you're ready to eat.

For longer storage, consider freezing individual portions. Allow the casserole to cool completely, then cut it into serving sizes. Wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil for an extra layer of protection against freezer burn. When you’re ready to enjoy a slice, thaw it in the fridge overnight and reheat it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 20-25 minutes until heated through.

Variations to Try

One of the best things about this recipe is its versatility. You can transform the basic flavors by changing up the meat. Ground turkey or chicken can be excellent substitutes for those looking for a leaner option. If you want to make it vegetarian, consider using black beans or lentils instead of beef. Just make sure to spice the mixture well to compensate for the missing meat flavor and texture.

For a different twist, you could incorporate different cheeses into the topping, like pepper jack for heat or feta for a tangy flavor. Additionally, you can swap out the corn for black olives or bell peppers to play with different textures and flavors. This flexibility makes it a fun dish to adapt based on seasonal ingredients or personal preferences!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare it the night before and refrigerate it. Just bake it when you're ready to serve.

→ What can I serve with it?

A simple green salad or some steamed vegetables make great side dishes.

→ Can I freeze leftovers?

Yes, you can freeze individual portions or the entire casserole. Just ensure it's stored in an airtight container.

→ How can I make this dish gluten-free?

Use a gluten-free cornbread mix to make this casserole suitable for a gluten-free diet.