Ground Beef Cornbread Casserole
A hearty casserole combining seasoned ground beef, beans, and cornbread topping, perfect for comforting family dinners with bold flavors and satisfying textures.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown the hamburger and chopped onion over medium heat.
- Spoon off excess fat from the meat mixture.
- Add chili powder, garlic salt, and salt; mix well.
- Stir in tomato sauce, water, and beans.
- Spread the meat mixture evenly in a casserole dish.
- Prepare the cornbread mix according to package instructions.
- Pour the cornbread batter over the meat mixture.
- Bake until the cornbread is golden and cooked through, about 20-25 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a spicier kick, consider adding diced jalapeños or cayenne pepper to the meat mixture. If you don’t have Ranch Style beans, pinto or black beans can work just as well. Opt for homemade cornbread if you prefer a from-scratch approach, but the packaged mix saves time and effort. Make sure to let the casserole rest for a few minutes before serving to set the layers.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Ground Beef Cornbread Casserole with a side of coleslaw or a simple green salad for a balanced meal. It pairs beautifully with Fiesta Cornbread Salad for a delightful twist. Consider topping individual servings with sour cream or shredded cheese for added flavor. This dish is perfect for potlucks or family gatherings.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place portions in the microwave for 1-2 minutes or until heated through. Alternatively, you can reheat in the oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes until warmed evenly. This casserole also freezes well for up to 3 months.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Ground Beef Cornbread Casserole contains roughly 360 calories, with 8g protein, 57g carbohydrates, and 12g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (30% of the Daily Value) and iron (22% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A and protein. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2071mg per serving (90% 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 ground turkey instead of ground beef?
Yes, ground turkey is a great substitute for ground beef in this recipe, making it a leaner option. Just be aware that turkey may require a bit more seasoning to enhance flavor, so consider increasing spices like chili powder or adding a splash more salt.
How can I make this dish vegetarian?
To make a vegetarian version, replace the ground beef with a plant-based meat substitute or use lentils for added protein. Ensure that the cornbread mix is also vegetarian-friendly, and consider adding extra vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini to enhance the texture and flavor.
Can I prepare this casserole in advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare the meat mixture and cornbread batter separately in advance. Assemble them in the casserole dish, cover tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, simply add a few extra minutes to the cooking time to ensure it’s heated through.
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).