Combining the flavors of cornbread, taco-seasoned ground beef, and creamy cheese, this Mexican Cornbread Casserole is a delicious and hearty dish perfect for family dinners or potlucks. The casserole starts with a cornbread base, topped with a seasoned beef mixture, then layered with sour cream, shredded cheddar cheese, and green onions. Bake until bubbly and golden, and serve hot for a comforting meal. Customize with additional ingredients like black beans or jalapeños for extra flavor. Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 3 months.
This Mexican Cornbread Casserole is a delightful, hearty dish that brings together the flavors of the Southwest in a single, satisfying meal. Now, let's dive into the ingredients you'll need to create this delicious casserole.
INGREDIENTS
- Cornbread/Muffin Mix (8.5 oz): Choose your favorite brand to form the base layer of the casserole.
- Diced Tomatoes and Green Chilies (10 oz, undrained): Adds a spicy and tangy flavor to the cornbread mix.
- Cream-Style Corn (8 oz): Provides moisture and sweetness, blending perfectly with the cornbread.
- Ground Beef (1 pound): Use lean ground beef for a meaty layer that complements the cornbread.
- Taco Seasoning Mix (1 packet): Enhances the beef with classic Mexican spices.
- Water (1/2 cup): Needed to mix with the taco seasoning and ground beef.
- Sour Cream (1/2 cup): Adds a creamy layer between the beef and cheese.
- Shredded Cheddar Cheese (1 cup): Melts into a gooey, delicious topping.
- Chopped Green Onions (1/2 cup): Adds a fresh, vibrant finish to the casserole.
INSTRUCTIONS
- Step 1:
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Step 2:
- Prepare Cornbread Batter: In a bowl, prepare the cornbread mix according to package directions. Add the undrained can of diced tomatoes and green chilies, along with the can of cream-style corn to the cornbread batter. Mix well to combine.
- Step 3:
- Bake Cornbread Layer: Pour the cornbread batter into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish. Bake for 20 minutes or until lightly golden on top.
- Step 4:
- Cook Beef Mixture: While the cornbread is baking, cook the ground beef in a skillet over medium heat until no longer pink. Drain any excess fat. Stir in the taco seasoning and 1/2 cup of water. Let it simmer for about 5 minutes until the sauce thickens.
- Step 5:
- Layer the Casserole: Once the cornbread layer is done baking, spread the beef mixture evenly over the cornbread.
- Step 6:
- Add Toppings: Spread the sour cream over the beef layer. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the sour cream. Top with the chopped green onions.
- Step 7:
- Final Bake: Return the casserole to the oven and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the edges are bubbly.
- Step 8:
- Serve: Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving. Enjoy this delicious and hearty Mexican Cornbread Casserole!
- Serve warm, straight from the oven, for the best texture and flavor.
- Garnish with fresh cilantro and a dollop of sour cream for added freshness.
- Pair with a side salad or steamed vegetables to balance the meal.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheat individual servings in the microwave for 1-2 minutes until warmed through.
- For a spicier version, add a diced jalapeño to the cornbread batter.
- Substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option.
- Use a mix of cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese for a different flavor profile.
- "This casserole is a crowd-pleaser at any gathering," says Chef Maria Gonzalez.
- Chef John recommends using freshly grated cheese for the best melt and flavor.
- Chef Emma suggests adding a layer of black beans for extra protein and texture.
- Chef Liam advises letting the casserole rest for a few minutes after baking to allow the flavors to meld together.
Serving and Storage Tips
In a simple list, here are some tips on how to serve the dish, ideal serving conditions, and any garnishes or accompaniments:
Helpful Notes
In a simple list, here are some variations of the recipe, substitutions for ingredients, and quotes:
Tips from well-known chefs
In a simple list, here are tips from famous chefs around the globe: