Mexican Cornbread Casserole

If you’re looking for a comforting dish that warms the heart and fills the belly, then this Mexican Cornbread Casserole is just what you need! This recipe is one of my all-time favorites because it brings together layers of ground beef, zesty spices, and gooey cheese, all tucked beneath a golden cornbread crust. It’s perfect for busy weeknights when you want something hearty yet easy to make. Plus, it’s always a hit at family gatherings and potlucks!

The beauty of this Mexican Cornbread Casserole lies in its simplicity and flavor. It’s a crowd-pleaser that even picky eaters will love! You can whip it up quickly, making it an excellent go-to dish for any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to prepare: With straightforward steps and simple ingredients, this casserole comes together in no time.
• Family-friendly: Kids and adults alike enjoy the delightful flavors, making it perfect for dinner with loved ones.
• Make-ahead convenience: You can prep it ahead of time and pop it in the oven when you’re ready to eat!
• Deliciously satisfying: The combination of textures—tender beef, sweet corn, and crispy cornbread—will leave you craving more.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering your ingredients is a breeze! These are simple, wholesome items that you might already have in your pantry. Let’s take a look at what you’ll need to create this mouthwatering Mexican Cornbread Casserole:

For the Casserole

• 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 recipe is quite flexible! Feel free to get creative with variations that suit your taste or dietary preferences. Here are some fun ideas to mix things up:

• Swap the protein: Try using ground turkey or chicken instead of beef for a lighter option.
• Add more veggies: Sneak in diced bell peppers or chopped spinach for extra nutrition.
• Change up the cheese: Experiment with different cheeses like pepper jack for a spicy kick or mozzarella for a milder flavor.
• Make it vegetarian: Substitute the ground beef with black beans or lentils for a delicious veggie version.

How to Make Mexican Cornbread Casserole

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

First things first! Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This step ensures that your casserole bakes evenly and gets that perfect golden color on top.

Step 2: Cook the Ground Beef

In a 10” cast iron skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned. Be sure to drain any excess grease afterward. Browning the meat adds flavor and creates a nice texture that pairs perfectly with the other ingredients.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients

Add in the cream-style corn, frozen corn, diced tomatoes and green chilies (Rotel), and taco seasoning. Stir everything together and allow it to cook for about 5 minutes until well combined and heated through. This step is crucial as it melds all those wonderful flavors together!

Step 4: Add Cheese

Sprinkle 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese over the top of your mixture. The cheese will melt beautifully while baking, adding richness to every bite.

Step 5: Prepare the Cornbread Batter

In a separate bowl, combine the Jiffy cornbread mix with eggs and whole milk. Stir until just combined; don’t overmix! This will create that fluffy texture we all love.

Step 6: Assemble the Casserole

Pour the cornbread batter over the ground beef mixture in your skillet, spreading it out evenly. This will form a lovely topping that contrasts nicely with the savory filling below.

Step 7: Bake

Place your skillet in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes until the cornbread is golden brown and cooked through. Keeping an eye on it during baking helps ensure you achieve that perfect crust!

Step 8: Add More Cheese

Once baked, remove from oven and sprinkle on the remaining cup of shredded cheddar cheese. Pop it back into the oven for an additional 5 minutes until melted and bubbly—this is where magic happens!

Step 9: Cool & Serve

Let your casserole cool for a few minutes before serving—this helps everything settle nicely so each slice holds its shape. Garnish with fresh parsley or green onions if desired. Now dig in and enjoy every delicious bite!

Pro Tips for Making Mexican Cornbread Casserole

Making this Mexican Cornbread Casserole is a breeze, but a few pro tips can elevate your dish to the next level!

• Use fresh ingredients – Opting for fresh veggies and quality ground beef enhances the flavor profile and gives your casserole that homemade touch.
• Customize the spice level – Feel free to adjust the taco seasoning or add jalapeños for extra heat, tailoring the dish to your family’s taste preferences.
• Let it rest before serving – Allowing the casserole to sit for about 5-10 minutes after baking helps it set up nicely, making it easier to cut and serve.
• Experiment with toppings – Try adding toppings like avocado slices or a dollop of sour cream for added creaminess and flavor contrast!
• Make it ahead of time – You can prepare the meat mixture a day in advance. Just assemble and bake when you’re ready for an effortless meal.

How to Serve Mexican Cornbread Casserole

This delightful casserole is perfect for family dinners or gatherings. Serve it warm from the oven, and let its comforting aroma fill your kitchen!

Garnishes

• Fresh cilantro or parsley – A sprinkle of fresh herbs adds a pop of color and freshness that brightens up each bite.
• Sour cream or Greek yogurt – A dollop of creamy goodness offsets the spicy flavors beautifully while adding richness.

Side Dishes

• Mexican Street Corn Salad – This vibrant salad combines corn, lime juice, fresh herbs, and cheese, providing a refreshing contrast to the hearty casserole.
• Guacamole and Tortilla Chips – Creamy guacamole paired with crunchy tortilla chips makes for a fantastic appetizer or side that complements the flavors perfectly.
• Refried Beans – Rich and savory refried beans are a classic side that rounds out the meal, providing additional protein and fiber.
• Simple Green Salad – A light salad with mixed greens, tomatoes, and avocado dressed in lime vinaigrette adds a refreshing element that balances the richness of the casserole.

Enjoy creating your delicious Mexican Cornbread Casserole experience! It’s not just food; it’s an invitation to gather around the table with loved ones.

Make Ahead and Storage

This Mexican Cornbread Casserole is perfect for meal prep! You can easily make it ahead of time, store it, and enjoy it throughout the week. Here’s how you can keep your delicious casserole fresh.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the casserole to cool completely before storing.
• Cover the skillet with a lid or plastic wrap, or transfer the leftovers to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing

• Ensure the casserole is completely cooled.
• Cut into individual portions for easier reheating later.
• Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil, or place in freezer-safe containers.
• Freeze for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• For refrigerated leftovers, simply preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Place the casserole in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 15-20 minutes or until warmed through.
• If reheating frozen portions, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before following the same steps.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making this comforting dish!

Can I make Mexican Cornbread Casserole without meat?

Absolutely! You can substitute the ground beef with black beans or lentils for a vegetarian version that still packs a flavorful punch.

How can I spice up my Mexican Cornbread Casserole?

Feel free to add jalapeños or diced bell peppers into the beef mixture for extra flavor and heat! You could also experiment with different types of cheese.

What sides go well with Mexican Cornbread Casserole?

This casserole pairs beautifully with a simple green salad, guacamole, or tortilla chips and salsa for a complete meal!

How long does Mexican Cornbread Casserole last in the fridge?

When stored properly in an airtight container, it can last for about 3-4 days in the refrigerator without losing its deliciousness.

Final Thoughts

I hope this Mexican Cornbread Casserole brings warmth and joy to your dinner table. It’s such a special recipe that combines comfort food with vibrant flavors. Don’t hesitate to make it your own by adding personal touches! I can’t wait for you to try it—enjoy every bite!