Mexican Cornbread Casserole

If you’re looking for a cozy meal that warms the heart and fills the belly, this Mexican Cornbread Casserole is just what you need! It’s one of those comforting dishes that brings everyone together, whether it’s a busy weeknight dinner or a fun family gathering. The combination of zesty spices, sweet corn, and gooey cheese all wrapped in a golden cornbread crust makes it special. Your loved ones will be asking for seconds!

This recipe is not only delicious but also super easy to whip up. You can have it in the oven in no time, leaving you with more moments to spend with family or friends. Trust me; this dish is bound to become a favorite at your table!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With just 15 minutes of prep time, you can have this casserole ready for the oven in no time.
• Family-Friendly: Even picky eaters will love it! The flavors are mild yet delicious, making it perfect for everyone.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: Prep it ahead of time and pop it in the oven when you’re ready to eat.
• One-Pan Wonder: Cook and serve from the same skillet! Less mess means more time enjoying your meal.
• Versatile Flavors: Customize it with your favorite toppings or side dishes for a unique twist every time.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s dive into the simple, wholesome ingredients you’ll need to create this mouthwatering Mexican Cornbread Casserole. No fancy stuff here—just good food that you can feel great about serving!

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

One of the best things about this recipe is how flexible it is! Feel free to get creative with these variations to make it your own.

• Swap the protein: Use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef for a lighter option.
• Add more veggies: Toss in some chopped bell peppers or black beans for added nutrition.
• Spice it up: If you like heat, add jalapeños or use spicy taco seasoning for an extra kick.
• Cheese overload: Try mixing different cheeses like Monterey Jack or pepper jack for unique flavors.

How to Make Mexican Cornbread Casserole

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This step ensures that your casserole bakes evenly and comes out perfectly golden brown.

Step 2: Brown the Beef

In a 10” cast iron skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned. This not only adds flavor but also helps render some fat that may be in the meat. Drain any excess grease to keep your dish from becoming too oily.

Step 3: Mix in Vegetables and Spices

Add the cream-style corn, frozen corn, diced tomatoes and green chilies (Rotel), and taco seasoning to the skillet with the ground beef. Stir well and cook for about 5 minutes until everything is combined and heated through. This step builds layers of flavor that make each bite delightful.

Step 4: Add Cheese

Sprinkle 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese over the top of your meat mixture. Melting cheese into this layer adds richness and makes every bite ooey-gooey delicious!

Step 5: Prepare Cornbread Batter

In a separate bowl, prepare the Jiffy cornbread mix by combining it with eggs and milk. Stir until just combined—overmixing can lead to tough cornbread, so be gentle!

Step 6: Pour and Spread

Pour the cornbread batter evenly over the ground beef mixture in your skillet. Spreading it out allows for an even bake so that every slice has that tasty crust on top.

Step 7: Bake

Place your skillet in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes. Keep an eye on it until the cornbread is golden brown and cooked through.

Step 8: Top with More Cheese

After baking, sprinkle another cup of shredded cheddar cheese on top of your casserole. Return it to the oven for an additional 5 minutes until it’s melted and bubbly—this final touch truly takes it over the top!

Step 9: Cool and Serve

Allow your casserole to cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley or green onions if you’d like! Now dig in and enjoy every comforting bite of this amazing Mexican Cornbread Casserole!

Pro Tips for Making Mexican Cornbread Casserole

Making the perfect Mexican Cornbread Casserole is a delightful experience, and these tips will help you elevate your dish to new heights.

• Use fresh ingredients: Opt for fresh produce when possible, such as bell peppers or onions, to enhance the flavor and nutrition of your casserole.

• Customize your spices: Adjust the amount of taco seasoning and add extra spices like cumin or chili powder for a personalized flavor profile that suits your taste buds.

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

• Experiment with cheese: While cheddar cheese is delicious, try mixing in Monterey Jack or pepper jack for an added kick!

• Make it ahead of time: Prepare the casserole in advance and store it in the fridge. Bake it just before serving for a warm, comforting meal without last-minute stress.

How to Serve Mexican Cornbread Casserole

Serving your Mexican Cornbread Casserole can be as fun as making it! Here are some ideas to present this tasty dish beautifully.

Garnishes

• Chopped cilantro: A sprinkle of fresh cilantro adds a burst of color and freshness that complements the flavors of the casserole.

• Sour cream or Greek yogurt: A dollop on top provides a creamy contrast that balances out the spiciness of the dish.

Side Dishes

• Mexican Street Corn Salad: This vibrant salad combines corn, lime juice, cilantro, and spices for a refreshing side that echoes the flavors of the casserole.

• Guacamole: Creamy guacamole adds richness and pairs beautifully with the zesty flavors of your casserole, making every bite more enjoyable.

• Refried beans: Serve warm beans on the side; they add protein and fiber while enhancing the overall meal experience with their creamy texture.

• Simple green salad: A light salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a zesty vinaigrette provides a crunchy contrast to the rich casserole.

Enjoy your Mexican Cornbread Casserole with these delightful garnishes and sides! It’s sure to become a favorite at any dinner table.

Make Ahead and Storage

This Mexican Cornbread Casserole is perfect for meal prep! It not only saves time but also stays delicious, making it an excellent option for busy weeknights.

Storing Leftovers

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

Freezing

• Cool the casserole entirely before freezing.
• Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, then place it in a freezer-safe container.
• Freeze for up to 2-3 months for best quality.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• To reheat, place in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, approximately 20-25 minutes.
• You can also reheat single servings in the microwave until hot.

FAQs

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

Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef for the Mexican Cornbread Casserole?

Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great substitute that still provides plenty of flavor. Just be sure to season it well.

How do I make the Mexican Cornbread Casserole spicier?

To add a kick, consider using spicy diced tomatoes with green chilies or adding sliced jalapeños into the beef mixture. Adjust the spice level to your liking!

Can I prepare the Mexican Cornbread Casserole ahead of time?

Yes! You can assemble the casserole and store it in the refrigerator before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it’s cold from the fridge.

What can I serve with Mexican Cornbread Casserole?

This casserole pairs wonderfully with a fresh salad or some guacamole on the side. You can also top it with sour cream or salsa for added flavor!

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this Mexican Cornbread Casserole as much as I do! It’s not just a dish; it’s a warm and comforting meal that brings friends and family together. Whether it’s for dinner or meal prep, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen. Happy cooking, and I can’t wait for you to try it!