A hearty, cheesy, and flavorful casserole layered with seasoned beef, corn, and creamy cornbread. This comforting dish is perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or casual gatherings. With its rich flavors and easy preparation, it’s sure to become a go-to recipe for busy weeknights.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Make – Simple ingredients and minimal prep make this casserole a stress-free meal.
- Family-Friendly – Kids and adults alike will love the cheesy, flavorful layers.
- Hearty & Satisfying – Packed with ground beef, corn, and cornbread, this dish is a complete meal.
- Great for Leftovers – The flavors meld beautifully, making it just as delicious the next day.
- Customizable – Easily switch up the ingredients to match your taste preferences.
Ingredients
(Tip: You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- lean ground beef
- cream-style corn
- canned corn
- Rotel diced tomatoes and green chilies
- taco seasoning
- salt
- pepper
- onion powder
- shredded Mexican cheese blend
- Jiffy cornbread mix
- large eggs
- milk
Directions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Grease a 9 x 13-inch baking dish and set aside.
- In a large sauté pan, cook the ground beef over medium-high heat, crumbling it as it cooks. Drain excess grease and reduce the heat to medium.
- Without draining, add the cream-style corn, canned corn, and Rotel tomatoes to the pan. Stir well to combine.
- Add taco seasoning, salt, pepper, and onion powder to the mixture. Simmer for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Remove the pan from the heat and stir in 2 cups of shredded Mexican cheese until melted.
- Transfer the beef mixture to the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the Jiffy cornbread mix, eggs, and milk. Stir until smooth.
- Pour the cornbread batter over the beef mixture in the baking dish, spreading it evenly.
- Bake for 17-20 minutes, or until the cornbread is golden brown.
- Remove the casserole from the oven and sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of shredded cheese over the top.
- Return the dish to the oven and bake for another 4-5 minutes, until the cheese is melted.
- Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy!
Servings and Timing
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cooking Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Servings: 6
Variations
- Spicy Kick – Add diced jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper for extra heat.
- Protein Swap – Substitute ground beef with ground turkey or shredded chicken.
- Vegetarian Option – Skip the meat and add black beans for a delicious meat-free version.
- Extra Toppings – Serve with sour cream, salsa, or avocado for added flavor.
- Different Cheese – Try cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a spicy pepper jack for a unique twist.
Storage/Reheating
- Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: Freeze in a sealed container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating.
- Reheating: Warm in the microwave in 30-second intervals or bake at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes.
FAQs
How can I make this casserole spicier?
Add diced jalapeños, extra chili powder, or a few dashes of hot sauce to the beef mixture.
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes! Prepare the casserole up to the baking step, cover, and refrigerate. Bake when ready to serve.
What can I serve with Mexican Cornbread Casserole?
It pairs well with a fresh salad, guacamole, or a side of refried beans.
Can I use homemade cornbread instead of Jiffy mix?
Absolutely! Just ensure the batter has a similar consistency before pouring it over the casserole.
What if I don’t have Rotel?
You can substitute it with a mix of diced tomatoes and canned green chilies.
Can I use a different type of meat?
Yes! Ground turkey, shredded chicken work well in this dish.
How do I prevent the cornbread from being too dry?
Make sure to measure the milk accurately and avoid overbaking.
Can I add beans to this casserole?
Yes! Black beans or pinto beans make a great addition for extra protein and texture.
What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?
Reheat in the oven at 350°F for best results, or use the microwave for convenience.
Can I make this in a slow cooker?
Yes! Cook the beef mixture first, then add it to the slow cooker with the cornbread batter on top. Cook on high for 2-3 hours.
Conclusion
Mexican Cornbread Casserole is a crowd-pleasing dish that combines bold flavors with comforting textures. Whether you're making it for a weeknight dinner, a potluck, or meal prep, this recipe is sure to impress. With its cheesy, beefy filling and fluffy cornbread topping, it’s a meal the whole family will love. Give it a try and make it your own with your favorite add-ins and toppings!
