Go Back
–+ servings
Savory BBQ Beef Cornbread Pie

Savory BBQ Beef Cornbread Pie

Juicy BBQ-sauced beef baked under a golden cornbread crust with melty cheddar. Simple comfort food that feeds a crowd.
Pin This Recipe For Later! Share The Yum On Facebook Print
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Total Time: 55 minutes
Servings: 8

Ingredients
 

Main Ingredients

  • 1.25 lb ground beef about 80–85% lean
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 0.75 cup diced onion
  • 0.5 cup diced green bell pepper
  • 1 tbsp minced garlic
  • 1 cup barbecue sauce
  • 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
  • 2 tbsp tomato paste
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1 tsp chili powder
  • 0.75 tsp kosher salt plus more to taste
  • 0.5 tsp black pepper
  • 1 cup corn kernels canned or frozen, drained
  • 1.5 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 2 cup cornbread mix
  • 1 cup milk
  • 3 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
  • 0.25 cup chopped jalapeño optional, for heat

Instructions

Preparation Steps

  • Preheat oven to 400°F. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
  • Warm olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add onion and bell pepper; cook until softened, about 4 minutes.
  • Stir in garlic and cook 30 seconds. Add ground beef; brown, breaking it up, 5–7 minutes. Drain excess fat.
  • Blend in barbecue sauce, tomato paste, Worcestershire, paprika, chili powder, salt, and black pepper. Simmer 3 minutes.
  • Fold in corn and jalapeño if using. Taste and adjust seasoning.
  • Spread beef mixture in the baking dish. Sprinkle cheddar evenly over the top.
  • In a bowl, whisk cornbread mix, milk, and melted butter just until combined. Do not overmix.
  • Pour batter over the cheese and smooth to the edges. Bake 25–30 minutes until golden and set.
  • Let rest 10 minutes before slicing so the layers hold together.

Notes

Variation: Swap ground turkey for the beef and add 1 extra tablespoon of olive oil for richness. For a spicier pie, use pepper jack instead of cheddar and keep the jalapeño seeds.
Storage: Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Reheat at 350°F, covered, until warm.
This recipe is an original creation inspired by classic Savory BBQ Beef Cornbread Pie flavors. All ingredient ratios and instructions are independently developed.