Go Back
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.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Resting Time 5 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Course Casserole, dinner, Main Course
Cuisine American, Southern
Servings 6 people
Calories 420 kcal

Equipment

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

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)

Instructions
 

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