Hamburger Casserole With Corn Bread
A hearty and flavorful casserole combining seasoned ground beef, tomatoes, kidney beans, topped with fluffy cornbread, perfect for family dinners and comforting occasions.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown the hamburger and chopped onion in butter.
- Add chili powder, salt, Worcestershire sauce, and tomatoes; cover and simmer over low heat for 15 minutes.
- Stir in drained kidney beans and cook for an additional 5 minutes.
- Pour the meat mixture into a greased 1 1/2-quart baking dish.
- Spread corn bread batter carefully over the meat mixture with a wet knife.
- Bake at 425°F for 10 minutes until golden.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance the flavor, consider adding minced garlic or bell peppers to the meat mixture. If you're looking for a healthier option, use ground turkey instead of hamburger. For a twist, add a cup of frozen corn to the casserole before baking. Make sure the cornbread batter is spread evenly to ensure even cooking. This dish is a great way to use up leftover ingredients from other American recipes.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the casserole hot, garnished with fresh cilantro or sliced jalapeños for a spicy kick. It pairs beautifully with a side of Spinach And Tomato Salad for a refreshing contrast. You can also offer a dollop of sour cream or shredded cheese on top for added richness. This hearty dish is perfect for family gatherings or casual weeknight dinners.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 20 minutes, or until warmed through. You can also microwave individual portions for 2-3 minutes, checking to ensure it heats evenly. Avoid reheating multiple times, as this can affect texture and flavor.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Hamburger Casserole With Corn Bread contains roughly 427 calories, with 28g protein, 75g carbohydrates, and 3g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (107% of the Daily Value), iron (61% of the Daily Value), and protein (55% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C and calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2104mg per serving (91% 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 make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole up to the baking step and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, simply add a few extra minutes to the baking time to ensure it's heated through. This is a great way to save time on busy nights.
What can I substitute for kidney beans?
If you don’t have kidney beans on hand, black beans or pinto beans make excellent substitutes. They will provide a similar texture and flavor. You can also omit the beans altogether if you're looking for a meatier dish or replace them with cooked lentils for a different twist.
How can I make this casserole spicier?
To increase the spice level, add chopped jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the meat mixture. You can also use spicy chili powder or add crushed red pepper flakes. Adjust to your taste preference, and remember that the cornbread will balance out the heat somewhat.
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).