Cowboy Pie: A Hearty and Flavorful One-Pan Meal
Saddle up for a taste adventure with Cowboy Pie, a hearty and satisfying dish that’s sure to please the whole family. Packed with savory smoked sausage, aromatic spices, and zesty jalapeños, this cowboy-inspired recipe brings the flavors of the Wild West straight to your dinner table. Whether you’re a seasoned cowboy or a city slicker, this dish is guaranteed to satisfy your hunger and leave you craving more. So, grab your cast iron skillet and get ready to rustle up some cowboy comfort food!
Ingredients:
- 1 (14 ounce) package Hillshire Farm® Smoked Sausage, diagonally cut into 1/4-inch slices
- 1 medium onion, 1/2-inch dice
- 1 green bell pepper, 1/2-inch dice
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons chili powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 (14 ounce) can diced tomatoes
- 1 (14 ounce) can black beans, drained
- 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
- 1 jalapeño, minced
- 1 (8.5 ounce) package dry corn muffin mix, batter prepared as directed on the box
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large skillet, cook the smoked sausage over medium heat until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add the diced onion and green bell pepper. Cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
- Add the minced garlic, chili powder, cumin, and salt to the skillet. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, until fragrant.
- Stir in the diced tomatoes and black beans, along with the cooked smoked sausage. Cook for another 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
- Transfer the sausage and vegetable mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish. Sprinkle the shredded Monterey Jack cheese on top.
- Prepare the corn muffin mix according to the package instructions, then spread it evenly over the sausage and vegetable mixture in the baking dish.
- Sprinkle the minced jalapeño over the cornbread batter.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the cornbread is golden brown and cooked through.
- Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
Cook Notes and Variations:
- Spice Level: Adjust the amount of chili powder and jalapeño according to your preference for heSet featured imageat.
- Vegetarian Option: Omit the smoked sausage and add extra vegetables such as mushrooms, zucchini, or corn for a vegetarian version.
- Cheese Varieties: Experiment with different types of cheese, such as cheddar, pepper jack, or Colby jack, for unique flavor combinations.
- Toppings: Serve with a dollop of sour cream, sliced avocado, or chopped cilantro for added freshness and flavor.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
Q: Can I use a different type of sausage? A: Yes, feel free to use your favorite type of sausage, such as Italian sausage or chorizo, for a different flavor profile.
Q: Can I make this dish ahead of time? A: Yes, you can assemble the Cowboy Pie ahead of time and refrigerate it until ready to bake. Just be sure to add a few extra minutes to the baking time if baking from cold.
Q: Is there a way to make this recipe keto-friendly? A: Yes, you can make a keto version of this recipe by substituting the corn muffin mix with a low-carb alternative made with almond flour or coconut flour. Additionally, you can omit the black beans and reduce the amount of onion to lower the carb content.
Q: Can I freeze leftovers? A: Yes, you can freeze leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply thaw overnight in the refrigerator and bake in the oven until warmed through.
Cowboy Pie is a delicious and satisfying one-pan meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings. With its flavorful combination of smoked sausage, vegetables, beans, and cheesy cornbread topping, it’s sure to become a new family favorite. Whether you’re serving it for dinner or bringing it to a potluck, this hearty dish is guaranteed to impress. So, gather your ingredients and give Cowboy Pie a try for a taste of the Wild West right in your own kitchen!
