Mexican Cornbread Casserole

If you’re looking for a cozy dish that warms the heart and fills the belly, my Mexican Cornbread Casserole is just what you need! This recipe is not only packed with flavor but also brings a delightful combination of textures to the table. Imagine layers of tender ground beef, zesty spices, and creamy corn topped with a golden cornbread crust. It’s perfect for busy weeknights, family gatherings, or even when you want to impress friends at a potluck.

This casserole is one of my go-to recipes because it’s so easy to whip up and always gets rave reviews. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to bring everyone together around the dinner table!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With just a few simple steps, you can have this delicious casserole ready in under an hour.
• Family-Friendly: This dish appeals to all ages, making it a hit for family dinners or gatherings with friends.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: You can prepare it in advance and simply bake it when you’re ready to eat!
• Flavorful Layers: Each bite offers a wonderful blend of savory beef, sweet corn, and gooey cheese that will leave you wanting more.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple, wholesome ingredients that come together beautifully in this Mexican Cornbread Casserole. Each one plays an important role in creating that delicious flavor profile we love!

For the Beef Mixture

• 1 Pound Ground Beef
• 1 Can (14.75 Ounces) Cream-Style Corn
• 1 Cup Frozen Corn
• 1 Can (10 Ounces) Diced Tomatoes and Green Chilies (Rotel)
• 1 Packet (1 Ounce) Taco Seasoning
• 2 Cups Shredded Cheddar Cheese

For the Cornbread Topping

• 1 Box (8.5 Ounces) Jiffy Cornbread Mix
• 2 Eggs
• ⅓ Cup Whole Milk

Variations

This Mexican Cornbread Casserole is quite flexible! Here are some fun ways to mix things up:

• Swap the protein: Use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef for a lighter option.
• Add veggies: Toss in some chopped bell peppers or spinach for extra nutrition and flavor.
• Spice it up: If you like heat, add jalapeños or swap regular taco seasoning for spicy.
• Cheese options: Experiment with different types of cheese like Monterey Jack or pepper jack for a unique twist.

How to Make Mexican Cornbread Casserole

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures that your casserole will cook evenly and develop that lovely golden crust on top.

Step 2: Brown the Beef

In a 10” cast iron skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned. This step is crucial as browning adds depth of flavor. Drain any excess grease to keep your casserole from being too oily.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients

Add the cream-style corn, frozen corn, diced tomatoes and green chilies (Rotel), and taco seasoning to the skillet with the browned beef. Stir everything together and let it cook for about 5 minutes until well combined and heated through. This melding of flavors creates that irresistible taste we all love!

Step 4: Add Cheese

Sprinkle 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese over the top of your beef mixture. The cheese adds creaminess and enhances overall flavor; who can resist cheesy goodness?

Step 5: Prepare Cornbread Batter

In a separate bowl, prepare the Jiffy cornbread mix by combining it with the eggs and milk. Stir until just combined; overmixing can make your cornbread tough.

Step 6: Pour Batter Over Beef Mixture

Pour the cornbread batter over the ground beef mixture in your cast iron pan, spreading it out evenly. This layer will rise beautifully while baking!

Step 7: Bake Until Golden

Bake in your preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until the cornbread is golden brown and cooked through. The aroma wafting through your kitchen will be absolutely mouthwatering!

Step 8: Add More Cheese

Remove the casserole from the oven and sprinkle the remaining cup of shredded cheddar cheese on top. Return it to the oven for an additional 5 minutes until melted and bubbly—trust me; this step is worth it!

Step 9: Cool & Serve

Allow your casserole to cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley or green onions if desired, then dig in! Enjoy every cheesy bite of this delightful Mexican Cornbread Casserole!

Pro Tips for Making Mexican Cornbread Casserole

Creating the perfect Mexican Cornbread Casserole is all about the little details that make a big difference! Here are some handy tips to elevate your dish.

• Use a cast iron skillet: Cooking in a cast iron skillet not only gives you even heat distribution but also creates a lovely crust on the cornbread, enhancing both texture and flavor.

• Don’t rush the browning: Taking the time to brown the ground beef properly adds depth of flavor to your casserole. It brings out those savory notes that make every bite delicious.

• Customize your spice level: If you love heat, consider adding sliced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to your ground beef mixture. Adjusting the spice level makes this dish versatile for everyone at the table.

• Experiment with cheese types: While cheddar is classic, feel free to mix in Monterey Jack or pepper jack cheese for an extra kick. Different cheeses can bring unique flavors and creaminess to your casserole.

• Let it rest before serving: Allowing the casserole to cool for a few minutes before serving helps it set up better, making it easier to slice and serve without falling apart!

How to Serve Mexican Cornbread Casserole

Serving this delightful casserole is just as fun as making it! Here are some ideas to present it beautifully while enhancing its flavors.

Garnishes

• Fresh cilantro: Chopped fresh cilantro adds a burst of freshness that complements the hearty flavors in the casserole.
• Sour cream or Greek yogurt: A dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt provides a creamy contrast that balances out the spices beautifully.
• Sliced green onions: Scattered on top, these add color and a mild onion flavor that brightens each bite.

Side Dishes

• Mexican street corn salad: This vibrant salad combines sweet corn with lime, chili powder, and queso fresco for a refreshing side that pairs perfectly with your casserole.
• Refried beans: Creamy refried beans offer a rich texture and additional protein, making them an ideal accompaniment that enhances the meal’s heartiness.
• Guacamole and tortilla chips: The creamy guacamole paired with crispy tortilla chips offers an added layer of flavor and crunch that guests will love.
• Simple green salad: A light green salad with romaine lettuce, cherry tomatoes, and a zesty lime vinaigrette provides a crisp contrast, balancing out the richness of the casserole.

With these serving suggestions and pro tips, your Mexican Cornbread Casserole will be the star of any dinner table! Enjoy sharing this warm, comforting dish with friends and family.

Make Ahead and Storage

This Mexican Cornbread Casserole is perfect for meal prep! It keeps well and can be enjoyed throughout the week, making it a fantastic choice for busy days.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the casserole to cool completely before storing.
• Transfer leftovers to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing

• Cool the casserole completely.
• Cut into portions and wrap tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Place wrapped portions in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• Freeze for up to 2-3 months for optimal freshness.

Reheating

• Thaw the casserole in the refrigerator overnight if frozen.
• To reheat, place in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, about 15-20 minutes.
• Alternatively, microwave individual portions on high for 1-2 minutes, or until warm.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about this delicious dish:

Can I make Mexican Cornbread Casserole without ground beef?

Absolutely! You can substitute ground turkey, chicken, or even a plant-based meat alternative for a lighter option.

What can I serve with Mexican Cornbread Casserole?

This dish pairs wonderfully with fresh salads, avocado slices, or your favorite salsa for added flavor and freshness!

How do I customize my Mexican Cornbread Casserole?

Feel free to add black beans, bell peppers, or any of your favorite vegetables to enhance flavor and nutrition.

Is Mexican Cornbread Casserole suitable for meal prep?

Yes! This recipe is great for meal prep as it stores well in the fridge and freezes beautifully.

Can I use other types of cheese in my Mexican Cornbread Casserole?

Of course! While cheddar is delicious, feel free to experiment with Monterey Jack or pepper jack cheese for added spice.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this wonderful Mexican Cornbread Casserole as much as I do! It’s not just a meal; it’s a comforting dish that brings everyone together. Whether you’re serving it at family gatherings or enjoying it throughout the week, it’s sure to become a favorite. Happy cooking, and don’t hesitate to share your experience!