Mexican Cornbread Casserole: A Comforting, Flavorful Bake for Cozy Evenings

As the days grow cooler, there’s nothing quite like the warmth of a freshly baked Mexican Cornbread Casserole. This recipe combines the hearty texture of cornbread with spicy, savory Mexican-inspired flavors, making it an ideal dish for fall and winter gatherings or family dinners. Packed with seasoned ground beef, vibrant vegetables, and topped with cheesy cornbread, this casserole is sure to become a go-to comfort meal.

Prep and Cook Times for Mexican Cornbread Casserole

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 35 minutes
• Total Time: 50 minutes

Ingredients for Mexican Cornbread Casserole

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious Mexican Cornbread Casserole. For dietary preferences, consider some of the suggested ingredient swaps:

• 1 lb ground beef (or ground turkey for a leaner option)
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 1 bell pepper, diced (red or green for extra color and flavor)
• 1 cup corn kernels (fresh, frozen, or canned)
• 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies (for added spice)
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional for dairy-free: use dairy-free cheese)
• 1 packet taco seasoning mix (or homemade blend)
• Salt and pepper to taste

For the cornbread topping:

• 1 cup cornmeal
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 tbsp sugar (optional for a touch of sweetness)
• 1 tbsp baking powder
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1 cup milk (or plant-based milk for dairy-free)
• 1/4 cup vegetable oil
• 1 large egg (or flax egg for vegan)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat and Prepare

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish or casserole pan to prevent sticking.

2. Cook the Filling

In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon. Add the diced onion and bell pepper, and cook for 3-5 minutes, until softened.

3. Add Seasoning and Vegetables

Sprinkle the taco seasoning over the beef mixture, stirring to coat evenly. Then add the corn, black beans, and diced tomatoes (with juices) to the skillet. Stir well and season with salt and pepper to taste. Simmer for about 5 minutes until the flavors meld.

4. Prepare the Cornbread Topping

In a large bowl, whisk together the cornmeal, flour, sugar (if using), baking powder, and salt. Add the milk, oil, and egg, and stir until just combined. Avoid over-mixing to keep the cornbread light and fluffy.

5. Assemble the Casserole

Pour the beef and vegetable mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly. Sprinkle a layer of shredded cheese on top for extra richness. Then, pour the cornbread batter over the cheese layer, spreading it out with a spatula for even coverage.

6. Bake and Serve Mexican Cornbread Casserole

Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the cornbread topping is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let the casserole cool for 5 minutes before serving.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

• Calories: 400 kcal
• Protein: 18g
• Carbohydrates: 45g
• Fat: 15g
• Fiber: 7g
• Serving Size: Serves 6-8

Variations for Mexican Cornbread Casserole

This Mexican Cornbread Casserole is versatile and can be adapted to fit various dietary needs:

• Vegetarian: Swap ground beef for crumbled tofu, a plant-based ground meat alternative, or extra black beans.
• Dairy-Free: Use plant-based cheese and milk substitutes.
• Gluten-Free: Replace the flour in the cornbread with a gluten-free baking blend.

Share Your Tips and Variations!

We’d love to hear your take on this Mexican Cornbread Casserole! Did you add a twist or try a unique topping? Let us know in the comments below. Don’t forget to share your feedback and any creative ideas with the 101SimplyRecipes community!