Craving a meal that’s both comforting and easy to prepare? Look no further than the Pioneer Woman Cornbread Casserole. Inspired by Ree Drummond’s signature style of hearty, family-friendly cooking, this casserole takes the humble cornbread to a whole new level. Imagine layers of savory ground beef, hearty beans, sweet corn, and melted cheese, all topped with a blanket of golden, slightly sweet cornbread. This isn’t just dinner; it’s a warm hug on a plate.
This recipe, sometimes referred to as “Cowboy Cornbread Casserole,” is perfect for busy weeknights, potlucks, or any occasion where you need to feed a crowd without spending hours in the kitchen. It’s a dish that’s guaranteed to please even the pickiest eaters and leave everyone feeling satisfied and happy. Let’s dive into what makes this Pioneer Woman-inspired cornbread casserole a must-try recipe for your family.
Hearty and delicious Pioneer Woman Cornbread Casserole with layers of ground beef, beans, corn, and cornbread.
Why You’ll Love This Cornbread Casserole Recipe
This Pioneer Woman Cornbread Casserole isn’t just another recipe; it’s a kitchen staple for several reasons:
- Effortless to Make: This recipe is all about simplicity. Using boxed cornbread mix cuts down on prep time, making it a breeze to throw together even on your busiest days.
- Crowd-Pleasing Flavors: The combination of seasoned ground beef, beans, corn, and cheese nestled under a layer of cornbread is a flavor explosion that appeals to all ages. It’s a comforting, familiar taste with a Tex-Mex twist.
- Versatile and Customizable: Like many of Ree Drummond’s recipes, this casserole is incredibly versatile. You can easily adjust the spice level, add extra veggies, or swap out ingredients to suit your family’s preferences and what you have on hand.
- Budget-Friendly Meal: With affordable ingredients like ground beef, canned beans, and boxed cornbread mix, this casserole is a budget-friendly way to feed a large family or group.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: Need to get ahead on dinner? You can assemble this casserole in advance and bake it later, making it perfect for meal prepping or potlucks.
Close-up shot of Pioneer Woman Cornbread Casserole showing the texture of the cornbread and savory filling.
Key Ingredients for Pioneer Woman Cornbread Casserole
Here’s what you’ll need to create this delicious Pioneer Woman-style cornbread casserole:
- Cornbread Mix: Two boxes of your favorite cornbread mix form the perfect slightly sweet and crumbly topping for the casserole.
- Ground Beef: The heart of the savory filling, ground beef provides a rich, meaty base. You can use lean ground beef or ground chuck for more flavor.
- Taco Seasoning: A packet of taco seasoning infuses the ground beef with classic Tex-Mex flavors, adding depth and spice.
- Canned Corn: Drained canned corn adds a touch of sweetness and texture to the filling.
- Canned Pinto Beans: Undrained pinto beans contribute a creamy texture and hearty protein to the casserole. Ranch style beans can also be used for a bolder flavor.
- Rotel Tomatoes: A can of Rotel diced tomatoes and green chilies (undrained) adds a zesty kick and moisture to the filling. If you can’t find Rotel, you can substitute with diced tomatoes and a small can of diced green chilies.
- Shredded Cheese: Mexican blend cheese creates a melty, cheesy layer that binds all the ingredients together. Feel free to use cheddar, Monterey Jack, or your favorite cheese blend.
- Eggs and Milk: These are the standard additions to your cornbread mix, helping to create a moist and tender cornbread topping.
Ingredients for Pioneer Woman Cornbread Casserole including cornbread mix, ground beef, canned goods, and taco seasoning.
Step-by-Step Guide to Making Cornbread Casserole
Follow these simple steps to create your own Pioneer Woman Cornbread Casserole:
- Prepare the Cornbread Batter: In a mixing bowl, prepare the cornbread batter according to the package directions, typically involving eggs and milk. Set aside.
- Brown the Ground Beef: In a large skillet, brown the ground beef over medium-high heat. Drain off any excess grease.
- Season the Beef Mixture: Add taco seasoning to the browned ground beef and stir to combine. Then, add the undrained Rotel tomatoes, undrained pinto beans, and drained corn to the skillet. Stir gently to mix all ingredients.
- Simmer the Filling: Let the mixture simmer for about 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
- Combine and Assemble: Prepare a 9×13 inch baking dish with non-stick cooking spray. Pour the cornbread batter into the baking dish. Then, spoon the ground beef mixture evenly over the cornbread batter. Gently stir to combine the cornbread and meat mixture.
- Bake the Casserole: Cover the dish with foil and bake in a preheated oven at 425°F (220°C) for 45 minutes.
- Check for Doneness: After 45 minutes, remove the foil and insert a toothpick into the center of the cornbread. If the toothpick comes out clean, the casserole is done. If not, bake for another 5-10 minutes.
- Serve and Enjoy: Let the casserole cool slightly before serving. Top with your favorite toppings like sour cream, salsa, pico de gallo, or extra cheese.
Tips for the Best Pioneer Woman Cornbread Casserole
- Don’t Overmix: When combining the cornbread batter and meat mixture, stir gently until just combined. Overmixing can result in tough cornbread.
- Customize the Spice Level: If you prefer a spicier casserole, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the ground beef mixture or use hot taco seasoning and hot Rotel tomatoes. For a milder version, use mild taco seasoning and regular diced tomatoes.
- Add Extra Veggies: Feel free to add other vegetables to the filling, such as diced onions, bell peppers, or black olives. Sauté them with the ground beef for added flavor and nutrition.
- Cheese Lovers Rejoice: If you love cheese, feel free to add an extra layer of shredded cheese on top of the casserole during the last 10 minutes of baking for a golden, cheesy crust.
- Make it Ahead: Assemble the casserole up to a day ahead of time and store it covered in the refrigerator. Bake as directed when ready to serve, adding about 10-15 minutes to the baking time if baking from cold.
Baked Pioneer Woman Cornbread Casserole with golden brown cornbread topping ready to be served.
Serving Suggestions for Cornbread Casserole
This Pioneer Woman Cornbread Casserole is a complete meal on its own, but you can elevate it further with delicious toppings and side dishes:
- Toppings: Sour cream, guacamole, pico de gallo, salsa, chopped cilantro, sliced green onions, jalapenos, cotija cheese, or your favorite hot sauce.
- Side Dishes: A fresh green salad, coleslaw, roasted vegetables, or a simple side of fruit complements the richness of the casserole.
Pioneer Woman Approved: A Cornbread Casserole Your Family Will Devour
Just like Ree Drummond’s signature recipes, this Pioneer Woman Cornbread Casserole is all about bringing families together with delicious, fuss-free food. It’s a hearty, flavorful, and incredibly easy meal that’s perfect for any night of the week. So gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to enjoy a taste of Pioneer Woman comfort food right in your own kitchen!
Serving of Pioneer Woman Cornbread Casserole topped with fresh cilantro, highlighting the layers and textures.
Cowboy Cornbread Casserole Recipe
Pioneer Woman Cowboy Cornbread Casserole close up recipe image.
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
Servings: 8-10 servings
Ingredients
- 2 boxes cornbread mix, plus ingredients listed on box (usually eggs and milk)
- 1-2 pounds ground beef
- 1 packet taco seasoning
- 1 (10-11 ounce) can Rotel tomatoes, undrained
- 1 (15 ounce) can pinto beans, undrained
- 1 (15 ounce) can corn, drained
- 1 cup shredded Mexican blend cheese
- Optional toppings: sour cream, salsa, pico de gallo, guacamole, cilantro, etc.
Equipment
- 9×13 inch baking dish
- Large skillet
- Mixing bowl
- Foil
- Non-stick cooking spray
- Toothpick
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with non-stick cooking spray.
- Prepare cornbread batter according to package directions. Set aside.
- In a large skillet, brown ground beef over medium-high heat. Drain excess grease.
- Stir in taco seasoning, Rotel tomatoes, pinto beans, and corn to the skillet with the ground beef. Simmer for 5 minutes.
- Pour cornbread batter into the prepared baking dish. Spoon the ground beef mixture evenly over the cornbread batter. Gently stir to combine.
- Cover the dish with foil and bake for 45 minutes.
- Remove foil and check for doneness with a toothpick. Bake longer if needed.
- Let cool slightly before serving. Top with desired toppings and enjoy!
