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+ servings

California Cowboy Cornbread Casserole with Smoked Beef and Black Beans

A hearty, one-dish dinner featuring smoked beef, black beans, and sweet corn under a golden cornbread crust, perfect for busy weeknights.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 1
Course: American, Casseroles, Dinner, Quick Meals
Cuisine: American
Calories: 420

Ingredients
  

Filling
  • 1 pound smoked beef, cooked and crumbled
  • 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1 cup corn kernels, fresh or frozen
  • 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies
  • 1 small yellow onion, chopped
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder
  • salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Cornbread Topping
  • 1 package (about 8.5 oz) cornbread mix
  • 1 large egg
  • 1 cup whole milk
Cheese Layer
  • 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese or Monterey Jack

Method
 

Prepare the Filling
  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F. Lightly grease a 9x13-inch baking dish.
  2. In a large skillet over medium heat, sauté the chopped onion until translucent, about 3 to 4 minutes.
  3. Add the crumbled smoked beef, black beans, corn, diced tomatoes with green chilies, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Stir well and cook for 2 minutes to blend flavors.
  4. Spread the beef mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish.
Assemble and Bake
  1. In a medium bowl, prepare the cornbread batter by whisking together the cornbread mix, egg, and milk until just combined.
  2. Pour the cornbread batter over the beef mixture, spreading it gently to cover the filling.
  3. Sprinkle the shredded cheese evenly over the top.
  4. Bake for 25 to 30 minutes, until the cornbread is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
  5. Let the casserole rest for 5 to 10 minutes before serving.

Nutrition

Calories: 420kcalCarbohydrates: 38gProtein: 28gFat: 18gSaturated Fat: 8gCholesterol: 85mgSodium: 890mgFiber: 6gSugar: 9g

Notes

To save time, use pre-cooked smoked beef from the deli or leftover brisket. For a vegetarian version, skip the beef and double the beans. Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a 350°F oven or microwave. You can prepare the filling a day ahead and refrigerate; add the cornbread topping just before baking. Avoid overmixing the cornbread batter to keep it tender. Serve with a side of avocado slices or a dollop of sour cream.

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