Craving a comforting, filling dish that’s packed with flavor? Look no further than the cowboy casserole! This hearty meal combines ground beef, savory vegetables, and a cheesy cornbread topping to create a delightful dish perfect for any occasion. Easy to prepare and even easier to enjoy, cowboy casserole is sure to become a favorite at your dinner table.
Ingredients
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 can (15 oz) corn, drained
– 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 cup diced tomatoes
– 1 packet taco seasoning
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1 cup cornbread mix
– 1 egg
– 1 cup milk
– 1/2 cup diced onion
– Salt and pepper to taste
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe serves 6. Preparation time is approximately 15 minutes, and cooking time is about 30 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Each serving (1/6 of the casserole) contains approximately 350 calories, 20g protein, 15g fat, 35g carbohydrates, and 5g fiber. This is a hearty meal that provides essential nutrients.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat.
3. Drain excess fat and add onions, cooking until softened.
4. Stir in taco seasoning and tomatoes, mixing well.
5. Add corn and black beans, combining all ingredients.
6. Transfer the beef mixture into a greased baking dish.
7. In a bowl, mix cornbread mix, egg, and milk until smooth.
8. Pour the cornbread mixture over the beef mixture evenly.
9. Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese on top.
10. Bake for 25-30 minutes until the cornbread is golden and cooked through.
Alternative Ingredients
You can substitute ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option. Additionally, feel free to use frozen vegetables instead of canned for a fresher taste.
Serving and Pairings
Cowboy casserole pairs wonderfully with a side of fresh salad or some crusty bread. A dollop of sour cream or guacamole on top can elevate the flavors even more.
Storage and Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply microwave or bake until heated through. This dish can be frozen for up to 3 months; thaw in the fridge before reheating.
Cooking Mistakes
- Don’t skip browning the beef; it adds vital flavor.
- Avoid overcooking the cornbread topping to keep it moist.
- Ensure to drain canned goods well to prevent sogginess.
- Don’t rush the mixing of cornbread; lumps can affect texture.
- Season to taste; underseasoning can make the dish bland.
Helpful Tips
- Use a cast-iron skillet for even cooking.
- Experiment with different types of cheese for variety.
- Add jalapeños for a spicy kick.
- Let the casserole sit for a few minutes before serving.
FAQs
Can I make cowboy casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. Just bake it when you’re ready to serve.
What can I use instead of cornbread mix?
You can make your own cornbread from scratch using cornmeal, flour, sugar, baking powder, milk, and eggs, if preferred.
Is cowboy casserole gluten-free?
To make it gluten-free, ensure you use gluten-free cornbread mix and check the labels of canned goods.
Can I add more vegetables?
Absolutely! Feel free to add bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach for added nutrition and flavor.
How do I know when it’s done baking?
The casserole is done when the cornbread topping is golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Conclusion
Cowboy casserole is a versatile and satisfying dish that brings comfort to your table. With its rich flavors and simple preparation, it’s perfect for busy weeknights. Try this recipe, and enjoy a taste of the Wild West in your own home!
Cowboy Casserole Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 can 15 oz corn, drained
- 1 can 15 oz black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup diced tomatoes
- 1 packet taco seasoning
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup cornbread mix
- 1 egg
- 1 cup milk
- 1/2 cup diced onion
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- In a skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat.
- Drain excess fat and add onions, cooking until softened.
- Stir in taco seasoning and tomatoes, mixing well.
- Add corn and black beans, combining all ingredients.
- Transfer the beef mixture into a greased baking dish.
- In a bowl, mix cornbread mix, egg, and milk until smooth.
- Pour the cornbread mixture over the beef mixture evenly.
- Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese on top.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes until the cornbread is golden and cooked through.
