Cornbread-Railroad Pie
A hearty, comforting casserole featuring seasoned ground beef, vegetables, and a flavorful tomato-based sauce topped with cornbread, perfect for family dinners and casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Saute onion and green pepper.
- Brown beef in a skillet.
- Add tomato soup, water, drained corn, salt, pepper, and chili powder.
- Mix well and simmer for 15 minutes.
- Pour into a greased 9 x 13-inch casserole or pan, filling it three-quarters full, leaving room for the cornbread topping.
Tips & Substitutions
For a twist on flavor, consider adding a teaspoon of smoked paprika or cumin. If you're short on time, swap the ground beef for pre-cooked rotisserie chicken or turkey. You can also use frozen corn instead of canned for added sweetness. Pair the pie with a dollop of sour cream for a creamy contrast.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the cornbread-railroad pie with a side salad or coleslaw for a refreshing crunch. It also pairs beautifully with cornbread or homemade biscuits for a hearty meal. For a fun twist, top with shredded cheese or jalapeños before baking for added flavor.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, cover with foil and warm in the oven at 350°F until heated through, about 15-20 minutes. You can also microwave individual portions for quick reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cornbread-Railroad Pie contains roughly 298 calories, with 7g protein, 45g carbohydrates, and 12g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (88% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (32% of the Daily Value), and iron (22% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and protein. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1760mg per serving (77% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of meat for this recipe?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken can be used as a leaner option, while vegetarian substitutes like lentils or black beans will work well for a meatless version. Just adjust cooking times accordingly.
What can I use instead of tomato soup?
If you don't have tomato soup, you can use crushed tomatoes or a homemade tomato sauce as a substitute. Adding a bit of sugar or seasoning can help balance the acidity.
How do I make this recipe spicier?
For an extra kick, add diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the mixture. You can also increase the amount of chili powder or add cayenne pepper to taste.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).