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Comfort food dinner scene featuring cornbread casserole with ground beef side dishes on a family table.

Ultimate Cornbread Casserole with Ground Beef

This cheesy, hearty cornbread casserole is the ultimate comfort food, perfect for busy weeknights! With ground beef, melty cheese, and a golden cornbread topping, it's ready in just 30 minutes and completely customizable.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Resting Time 5 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 6 people
Course: Casserole, dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American, Southern
Calories: 420
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • Ground Beef Layer
  • 1 lb ground beef
  • 1 small onion diced
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 can 15 oz diced tomatoes, drained
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1 tsp chili powder optional
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Cornbread Topping
  • 1 box cornbread mix e.g. Jiffy
  • 1/3 cup milk
  • 1 egg
  • 1/2 cup shredded cheddar or pepper jack
  • 1 can 15 oz corn, drained (optional)

Equipment

  • Skillet
  • Mixing Bowl
  • 9x9 Baking Dish
  • Spatula
  • Oven

Method
 

  1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
  2. In a skillet over medium heat, cook ground beef and diced onion until browned. Drain any excess fat.
  3. Add garlic, tomatoes, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Stir and simmer for 2–3 minutes. Remove from heat and stir in shredded cheese.
  4. In a bowl, combine cornbread mix, milk, and egg. Stir until just mixed, then fold in cheese and corn.
  5. Spread beef mixture in a greased 9x9-inch baking dish. Pour cornbread batter over the top and smooth gently.
  6. Bake for 18–22 minutes, or until the cornbread is golden and cooked through.
  7. Let rest for 5 minutes before serving. Enjoy!

Notes

  • Add jalapeños or taco seasoning for a Tex-Mex twist.
  • Substitute ground turkey or mushrooms for a lighter or vegetarian version.
  • Freezer-friendly, wrap tightly and freeze up to 3 months.