Mexican Cornbread Casserole Recipe

This Mexican Cornbread Casserole is a fun and flavorful twist on classic cornbread! Imagine a savory ground beef and corn filling topped with a fluffy and cheesy cornbread crust. It’s a hearty and satisfying dish that’s perfect for a casual family dinner or a potluck with friends.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Flavorful and Cheesy: The combination of ground beef, corn, Rotel tomatoes, and Mexican cheese blend creates a delicious and savory filling that’s topped with a cheesy cornbread crust for a double dose of cheesy goodness.
• Easy to Make: This recipe is surprisingly simple to prepare, even for beginner cooks.
• Crowd-Pleaser: This casserole is always a hit with both kids and adults. It’s a fun and unexpected way to enjoy a comforting meal.
• Versatile: Feel free to customize the filling with your favorite vegetables or spices.

this Recipe

Ingredients

• Ground beef: The base of the flavorful filling. Use lean ground beef for a healthier option.
• Cream-style corn: Adds sweetness and creaminess to the filling.
• Canned corn: Adds texture and sweetness.
• Rotel diced tomatoes and green chilies: Adds a zesty kick and a touch of heat.
• Taco seasoning: Adds a blend of spices for that classic taco flavor.
• Salt and pepper: Season the filling to perfection.
• Onion powder: Adds a subtle onion flavor.
• Shredded Mexican cheese blend: Adds a cheesy and flavorful topping.

Cornbread Topping

• Jiffy cornbread mix: A convenient and easy-to-use cornbread mix.
• Eggs: Bind the cornbread batter together.
• Milk: Adds moisture to the cornbread batter.

Note: For exact measurements, see the recipe card below!

How to Make Mexican Cornbread Casserole

Step 1: Preheat and Brown Beef

Preheat your oven to 400°F. In a large skillet over medium-high heat, brown the ground beef. Crumble the beef well and cook until it’s no longer pink. Drain any excess grease.

Step 2: Make the Filling

Reduce the heat to medium. Add the cream-style corn, canned corn, and Rotel tomatoes and green chilies to the skillet. Stir well to combine. Add the taco seasoning, salt, pepper, and onion powder. Stir and simmer for 5 minutes, or until the mixture thickens slightly.

Step 3: Add Cheese and Assemble

Remove the skillet from the heat and stir in 2 cups of the shredded Mexican cheese blend until melted and smooth. Pour the mixture into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish and spread it evenly.

Step 4: Make the Cornbread Topping

In a large bowl, combine the Jiffy cornbread mix, eggs, and milk. Stir until no large lumps remain. Pour the cornbread batter over the ground beef mixture in the baking dish.

Step 5: Bake and Finish

Bake the casserole for 17-20 minutes, or until the cornbread is starting to brown on top. Remove the dish from the oven and sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of shredded cheese over the cornbread. Return the dish to the oven and bake for another 4-5 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving.

Pro Tips for Making the Recipe

• Use lean ground beef: For a healthier option, use lean ground beef or ground turkey.
• Don’t overcook the beef: Overcooked ground beef will be dry. Cook it just until it’s browned and no longer pink.
• Adjust the spice level: If you prefer a milder filling, use less taco seasoning or a mild variety of Rotel. For a spicier filling, use more taco seasoning or a hotter variety of Rotel.
• Make ahead: You can assemble the casserole ahead of time and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking.

How to Serve

This Mexican Cornbread Casserole is a hearty and satisfying meal on its own, but here are some serving suggestions:

• Side Salad: A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette adds a refreshing contrast to the richness of the casserole.
• Sour Cream and Guacamole: Top with a dollop of sour cream and guacamole for extra flavor and creaminess.
• Salsa: Serve with salsa for an extra kick of flavor.

Make Ahead and Storage

This Mexican Cornbread Casserole is great for making ahead of time or storing leftovers.

Storing Leftovers

Store leftover casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Reheating

Reheat gently in the oven at 350°F until heated through, or reheat individual portions in the microwave.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of cornbread mix? Yes, you can! You can use any cornbread mix you like, but the Jiffy cornbread mix is a convenient and readily available option.

2. Can I add other ingredients to the filling? Absolutely! Feel free to add your favorite vegetables, such as diced bell peppers, chopped onions, or black beans.

3. Can I make this recipe vegetarian? Yes, you can! Omit the ground beef and use a plant-based ground meat substitute or add more vegetables, such as lentils, black beans, or chopped mushrooms.

4. Can I make this casserole ahead of time? Yes, you can! Assemble the casserole and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking.

This Mexican Cornbread Casserole Recipe is a fun, flavorful, and easy way to enjoy a comforting and cheesy meal. With its simple preparation, versatile ingredients, and satisfying flavors, it’s a recipe you’ll want to make again and again!

Print