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Cowboy Cornbread Casserole

This hearty Cowboy Cornbread Casserole combines seasoned ground beef with corn, beans, and salsa, topped with a moist, homemade cornbread layer. The casserole features two distinct textures - a zesty Tex-Mex beef filling and a sweet-savory cornbread crust made extra tender with creamed corn.
Perfect for family dinners, this comforting dish can be made ahead and freezes beautifully.

Ingredients
  

Ground Beef Filling:

  • 2 pounds lean ground beef 93% or 96% lean
  • 2 cups salsa
  • 14.5 ounce can kidney beans drained
  • 14 ounce can corn drained
  • 1 ounce packet taco seasoning
  • 1 cup water
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder
  • cups Colby Jack cheese shredded

Cornbread Topping:

  • 8.5 ounce box Jiffy corn muffin mix
  • 8.25 ounce can creamed corn
  • 2 tablespoons milk
  • ¼ cup sour cream

Instructions
 

  • Preheat your oven to 350°F. Spray a 9x13 inch baking dish with nonstick cooking spray to prevent sticking.
  • Place a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and break it up with a wooden spoon. Cook until no pink remains, about 7-8 minutes. Drain any excess fat if needed.
  • To the cooked beef, add the salsa, drained kidney beans, drained corn, taco seasoning, water, salt, black pepper, and garlic powder. Stir well to combine. Let simmer for 3-4 minutes until slightly thickened.
  • Transfer the beef mixture to your prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly. Sprinkle the shredded Colby Jack cheese evenly over the top.
  • In a medium bowl, make the cornbread topping. Mix together the Jiffy corn muffin mix, creamed corn, milk, and sour cream until just combined. Don't overmix - a few small lumps are okay.
  • Carefully pour and spread the cornbread mixture over the cheese layer, making sure to cover the entire surface.
  • Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the cornbread is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
  • Let the casserole rest for 10 minutes before serving. This helps it set and makes it easier to portion.
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