Mexican Cornbread Casserole Recipe
If you’re craving a comforting, flavorful dish that brings together the best of savory meat, creamy cornbread, and a touch of Tex-Mex flair, look no further than this Mexican Cornbread Casserole Recipe. It’s a delightful combination of seasoned ground beef, sweet corn, tangy salsa, and cheesy goodness all baked beneath a tender cornbread topping. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just want a hearty dinner that feels like a warm hug, this casserole delivers every time with vibrant flavors and a perfect mix of textures that keep everyone coming back for seconds.
Ingredients You’ll Need
All the ingredients in this Mexican Cornbread Casserole Recipe are straightforward and easy to find, yet each one plays a crucial role in building its comforting layers of flavor, texture, and color. From the hearty ground beef to the creamy sour cream and the sweet bursts of corn, every component matters.
- 1 lb ground beef: This provides the rich, savory base packed with comforting protein and flavor.
- 1 medium onion, diced: Adds sweetness and a gentle crunch when cooked with the beef.
- 1 packet taco seasoning: Brings those classic Mexican spices that elevate everything in the dish.
- 1 can diced tomatoes with green chilies, drained: Injects tang and subtle heat for authentic southwestern zest.
- 1 can corn, drained: Adds natural sweetness and a pop of texture that balances the savory elements.
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese: Melts beautifully on top, creating a golden, cheesy crust.
- 1 box cornbread mix (plus ingredients listed on the box): Creates a tender, slightly sweet topping that seals all the flavors together.
- 1 cup sour cream: Stirred into the cornbread, it makes the topping moist and rich with a slight tang.
- 1 cup salsa: Adds fresh, zesty notes and ties in the toppings and filling with a bright finish.
How to Make Mexican Cornbread Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Dish
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish so your casserole won’t stick and will come out effortlessly once baked to bubbly perfection.
Step 2: Cook the Beef and Onions
In a skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef with the diced onion until the meat is fully cooked and the onions have softened. This step builds the savory foundation of your casserole. Once done, drain any excess fat to keep it from being greasy.
Step 3: Season and Combine
Stir in your taco seasoning, drained diced tomatoes with green chilies, and drained corn to the beef mixture. Let it simmer together for about 5 minutes to marry all the flavors and then remove from heat. This vibrant combination adds layers of authentic Mexican taste.
Step 4: Mix the Cornbread Batter
Prepare the cornbread mix according to the package instructions, but here’s a secret to making this recipe special—stir in the sour cream before baking. This addition keeps the topping extra moist, creamy, and lusciously tender once baked.
Step 5: Assemble the Casserole
Layer the seasoned beef mixture evenly into the greased baking dish. Pour the cornbread batter on top, smoothing it out for even coverage. Then, generously sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the batter to create a golden, melty finish after baking.
Step 6: Bake Until Golden
Place the dish in your preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes. You’re looking for a beautifully golden cornbread topping and a clean toothpick test when inserted in the center. This signals your casserole is perfectly cooked and ready to enjoy!
How to Serve Mexican Cornbread Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
Garnishing your Mexican Cornbread Casserole Recipe can turn a simple meal into a feast for the eyes and taste buds. Freshly chopped cilantro, a dollop of cool sour cream, or slices of ripe avocado add freshness and balance the warmth of the casserole wonderfully.
Side Dishes
This casserole pairs beautifully with crisp salads featuring lime vinaigrette, refried beans for extra creaminess, or Spanish rice to keep the meal authentic and hearty. These sides complement the flavors without overwhelming the star casserole.
Creative Ways to Present
For a festive touch, serve the casserole family-style right from the baking dish to encourage sharing and conversation. You can also scoop portions onto colorful plates and garnish with a squeeze of fresh lime juice and sliced jalapeños for a bit of brightness and heat.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
After enjoying your Mexican Cornbread Casserole Recipe, wrap any leftovers tightly and store them in the refrigerator. It keeps well for up to 3 days, making it a perfect dish for next-day lunches or quick dinners.
Freezing
You can freeze this casserole successfully by covering it securely with foil or an airtight container. Frozen for up to 2 months, it’s a lifesaver for busy nights when you want homemade flavor ready in minutes.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through and the cornbread topping regains its texture. Avoid microwaving if you want to keep the casserole’s delicious crust intact.
FAQs
Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Absolutely! Simply swap the ground beef for sautéed vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, and black beans. The combination of spices and cornbread will still shine and make a filling vegetarian meal.
What can I use if I don’t have sour cream?
If you don’t have sour cream on hand, Greek yogurt is a fantastic substitute that will add creaminess and a bit of tang to the cornbread batter.
Is this recipe spicy?
This Mexican Cornbread Casserole Recipe has a mild heat level from the taco seasoning and diced chilies, but you can easily adjust the spice by adding extra jalapeños or hot sauce if you like it with a kick.
Can I prepare this casserole ahead of time before baking?
Yes! You can assemble the casserole up to 24 hours in advance, keep it covered in the fridge, and then bake it fresh when you’re ready. It’s a great way to save time on busy days.
What kind of cornbread mix works best?
Any standard boxed cornbread mix works perfectly for this recipe. If you prefer homemade from scratch, that works too! Just be sure to stir in the sour cream for that signature moist topping.
Final Thoughts
This Mexican Cornbread Casserole Recipe is one of those dishes that feels like a warm, delicious celebration in every bite. It’s easy to make, packed with flavor, and perfect for anything from weeknight dinners to gathering with friends. Give it a try—you might just find it becoming a new favorite in your recipe rotation.
Print
Mexican Cornbread Casserole Recipe
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
Description
This hearty Mexican Cornbread Casserole combines seasoned ground beef, flavorful vegetables, and a moist cornbread topping for a comforting and delicious meal. With layers of taco-seasoned meat, tangy salsa, and melted cheddar cheese, it’s perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Meat and Vegetables
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 1 packet taco seasoning
- 1 can diced tomatoes with green chilies, drained
- 1 can corn, drained
Dairy and Cheese
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup sour cream
Cornbread
- 1 box cornbread mix (plus ingredients listed on the box)
Other
- 1 cup salsa
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking and allow easy serving.
- Cook Beef and Onions: In a skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef along with the diced onion until the meat is fully cooked and the onions are translucent. Drain any excess fat to reduce greasiness.
- Add Seasonings and Vegetables: Stir in the taco seasoning, drained diced tomatoes with green chilies, and drained corn. Allow the mixture to cook together for about 5 minutes to blend flavors, then remove from heat.
- Prepare Cornbread Mix: Follow the instructions on the cornbread mix box to prepare the batter. Once mixed, gently stir in the sour cream to add moisture and richness.
- Assemble Casserole: Spread the beef mixture evenly in the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Pour the cornbread batter over the beef layer, smoothing it out evenly. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly on top.
- Bake: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 30 to 35 minutes, or until the cornbread is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the cornbread layer comes out clean.
Notes
- Drain the fat after browning the beef for a healthier dish.
- For extra spice, add jalapeños or hot salsa.
- Leftovers can be stored covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Ensure the cornbread mix is well combined with sour cream for best texture.
- You can substitute ground turkey for a leaner option.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mexican
