Western Round-Up: A Southwest Fiesta in a Skillet

There are some dishes that, with a single whiff, transport you back in time. For me, Western Round-Up is one of those culinary portals. I can vividly recall my grandmother, a woman whose kitchen was always a fragrant wonderland, pulling a bubbling skillet from the oven, the aroma of chili and sweet cornbread mingling to create an irresistible siren song. She’d always serve it family-style, straight from the cast iron, a rustic centerpiece that brought us all together. It wasn’t just a meal; it was an event, a celebration of comfort, family, and the hearty flavors of the American Southwest. This dish, with its satisfying chili base and golden cornbread crown, has remained a cherished memory and a go-to recipe for those moments when only true comfort food will do.

Recipe Overview

Here’s a quick look at what makes this Western Round-Up so special:

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 40 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour
• Servings: 6
• Yield: 1 skillet casserole
• Dietary Type: Not specified (can be adapted)

Ingredients

This recipe is beautifully straightforward, relying on pantry staples and one key ingredient for its signature flavor.

For the Chili Filling:

• 1 lb ground beef
• 2 red peppers, cut into 2-inch squares (I prefer to dice them for a more integrated texture)
• 1/4 cup onion, chopped
• 1 (15-ounce) can baked beans
• 1 tablespoon fajita seasoning mix

For the Cornbread Topping:

• 8 1/2 ounces cornbread mix (The original recipe specifically calls for Firenza Traditional Sweet Cornbread mix, noting its superior quality and availability online. If you cannot find this specific mix, opt for a good quality sweet cornbread mix, as the sweetness is integral to the balance of the dish.)
• 1 egg
• 1/3 cup milk

Equipment Needed

• A large oven-safe skillet (10-12 inch diameter is ideal)
• A mixing bowl
• A whisk or fork
• A spatula or spoon
• A toothpick for testing doneness
• Oven mitts

Instructions

Bringing this hearty Western Round-Up to life is a simple process that yields incredibly rewarding results. Follow these steps carefully for a dish that’s sure to become a favorite.

1. Prepare the Skillet and Brown the Meats: Begin by placing your large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef, the prepared red peppers, and the chopped onion to the skillet. Cook, stirring and breaking up the beef, until the beef is thoroughly browned and the onion has become translucent. This process usually takes about 8-10 minutes. Once cooked, carefully drain any excess grease from the skillet.
2. Simmer the Filling: With the skillet still over medium heat, add the baked beans and the fajita seasoning mix to the browned beef and vegetable mixture. Stir everything together to ensure the seasoning is evenly distributed. Allow the filling to heat through, stirring frequently, for about 5-7 minutes. The flavors will meld beautifully during this time.
3. Even Out the Filling: Once the chili filling is heated through, spread it out evenly across the bottom of the skillet. This ensures a consistent base for the cornbread topping. Remove the skillet from the heat for a moment while you prepare the cornbread mixture.
4. Mix the Cornbread Topping: In a separate mixing bowl, combine the cornbread mix, the egg, and the milk. Mix them together according to the instructions on your cornbread mix package. The goal is to create a smooth, pourable batter. Be careful not to overmix; just until the ingredients are combined.
5. Top and Bake: Gently spread the prepared cornbread batter evenly over the chili filling in the skillet. Ensure the entire surface of the chili is covered.
6. Bake to Perfection: Carefully place the skillet into a preheated oven set to 350 degrees Fahrenheit (175 degrees Celsius). Bake for approximately 20 minutes, or until the cornbread layer is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the cornbread comes out clean. This indicates that the cornbread is fully cooked through.
7. Rest and Serve: Once baked, carefully remove the skillet from the oven using oven mitts. Allow the Western Round-Up to cool slightly for about 5-10 minutes before serving. This resting period helps the casserole set and makes it easier to cut.
8. Cut and Enjoy: Cut the Western Round-Up into wedges directly from the skillet and serve.

Expert Tips & Tricks

To elevate your Western Round-Up experience, consider these culinary insights:

• The Magic of Fajita Seasoning: The fajita seasoning is crucial for that authentic Southwest kick. If you find yourself out of a pre-made mix, you can create your own by combining chili powder, cumin, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and a pinch of cayenne.
• Diced vs. Squares: While the recipe mentions 2-inch squares for the red peppers, I personally find dicing them smaller integrates them more seamlessly into the chili. It’s a matter of texture preference, so feel free to experiment.
• Skillet Savvy: Using an oven-safe skillet is non-negotiable for this recipe. Cast iron is ideal as it distributes heat evenly and creates a beautiful crust on the cornbread. Ensure your skillet is large enough to accommodate both the chili filling and the cornbread topping without overflowing.
• Cornbread Consistency: The key to a good cornbread crust is the batter consistency. If your mix calls for slightly different liquid amounts, follow the package directions. The batter should be pourable but not too thin.

Serving & Storage Suggestions

Western Round-Up is a complete meal in itself, but it pairs wonderfully with a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of fresh cilantro. A side of simple green salad can offer a refreshing contrast.

Storage: Leftovers can be stored, covered, in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or oven until heated through. For longer storage, you can freeze the cooled casserole, divided into portions, for up to 2-3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Nutritional Information

Here’s an approximate nutritional breakdown for one serving of Western Round-Up:

Nutrient	Amount per Serving	% Daily Value
Calories	431 kcal	N/A
Calories from Fat	161 kcal	N/A
Total Fat	17.9 g	27%
Saturated Fat	6.3 g	31%
Cholesterol	89.4 mg	29%
Sodium	754.2 mg	31%
Total Carbohydrate	46.6 g	15%
Dietary Fiber	6.4 g	25%
Sugars	16.6 g	66%
Protein	22.2 g	44%

(Note: Nutritional values are estimates and can vary based on specific ingredients used.)

Variations & Substitutions

While this recipe is fantastic as is, there’s always room for a little culinary creativity:

• For a Vegetarian Twist: Omit the ground beef and add an extra can of beans (black beans or kidney beans work well) or some diced firm tofu seasoned with chili powder and cumin.
• Spicy Kick: For those who like it hotter, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or some finely diced jalapeños to the chili filling.
• Cheese Lover’s Dream: Stir in a cup of shredded cheddar cheese into the chili filling before adding the cornbread topping, or sprinkle it over the cornbread during the last 5 minutes of baking.
• Gluten-Free Option: Use a gluten-free cornbread mix for the topping. Ensure all other ingredients are also gluten-free.

FAQs

Q: What is the best type of cornbread mix to use for this recipe?
A: The recipe specifically recommends Firenza Traditional Sweet Cornbread mix for its superior quality and flavor. If unavailable, a good quality sweet cornbread mix will also work well.

Q: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
A: You can prepare the chili filling and store it in the refrigerator. Prepare the cornbread batter just before baking and pour it over the warmed filling.

Q: My cornbread didn’t cook through. What went wrong?
A: Ensure your oven temperature is accurate. Overcrowding the skillet can also lead to uneven baking. Make sure the cornbread batter is spread evenly and that you’ve allowed adequate baking time.

Q: Can I use different types of peppers?
A: Absolutely! While red peppers are specified, green bell peppers or a mix of colors can add visual appeal and slightly different flavor notes.

Q: Is this recipe spicy?
A: The heat level will depend on the fajita seasoning mix used. If you prefer a milder dish, opt for a milder seasoning blend or reduce the amount slightly.

Final Thoughts

Western Round-Up is more than just a recipe; it’s a warm hug on a plate, a taste of comfort and tradition that resonates with simple, honest flavors. It’s the kind of dish that brings people to the table, sparking conversation and creating memories. Whether you’re looking for a hearty weeknight meal or a crowd-pleasing potluck dish, this skillet casserole delivers. Gather your ingredients, embrace the rustic charm of baking in a skillet, and prepare to be delighted. I’d love to hear your feedback, and perhaps how you’ve put your own spin on this Southwestern classic!