If you are looking for a comforting, crowd-pleasing dish that bursts with flavor, this Mexican Cornbread Casserole Recipe is exactly what you need on your dinner table. Combining savory ground beef seasoned with zesty taco spices, sweet corn, tangy diced tomatoes with green chilies, and the unmistakable richness of cornbread and cheddar cheese, this casserole hits all the right notes. Whether you’re cooking for your family or bringing a dish to a potluck, it’s a guaranteed favorite that blends the warmth of homey cornbread with the festive spirit of Mexican flavors.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting ready to make this sizzling dish is really about gathering simple, staple ingredients that each bring their own delightful touch to the casserole’s overall taste and texture. From the hearty ground beef to creamy sour cream, every component plays a key role in creating this irresistible layered masterpiece.
- Ground beef (1 lb): Provides rich, savory protein and forms the flavorful base of the casserole.
- Medium onion, diced: Adds sweetness and depth when sautéed with the beef.
- Taco seasoning packet: Infuses the mixture with authentic Mexican spices for that signature kick.
- Can of diced tomatoes with green chilies, drained: Introduces a tangy, mildly spicy note that brightens the dish.
- Can of corn, drained: Brings bursts of natural sweetness and adds texture contrast.
- Shredded cheddar cheese (1 cup): Melts beautifully on top, creating a luscious golden crust.
- Cornbread mix (1 box): The fluffy, slightly sweet topping that makes this recipe so unique and comforting.
- Sour cream (1 cup): Mixed into the cornbread batter for added moisture and a smooth tang.
- Salsa (1 cup): Adds moisture and a bright, fresh flavor to the cornbread layer.
How to Make Mexican Cornbread Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Pan
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it warms up, grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to ensure the casserole won’t stick and you get those perfect edges when it’s time to serve.
Step 2: Cook the Beef and Onions
Next, brown the ground beef with the diced onion in a skillet over medium heat. Cooking until the meat is fully browned and onions are tender brings out their natural sweetness and rich flavor. Remember to drain any excess fat off to keep the casserole from becoming greasy.
Step 3: Season and Simmer
To the cooked beef and onions, stir in the taco seasoning, diced tomatoes with green chilies, and drained corn. Let this mixture cook together for about 5 minutes so the flavors meld beautifully. Once ready, remove the skillet from heat.
Step 4: Mix the Cornbread Batter
Follow the instructions on your cornbread mix box, then stir in the sour cream and salsa. This addition ensures the cornbread topping stays moist and adds a vibrant flavor that complements the savory beef layer underneath.
Step 5: Assemble the Casserole
In your prepared baking dish, spread the beef mixture evenly on the bottom. Pour the cornbread batter over the top and smooth it out gently. Finally, sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly across the surface to create that ooey-gooey, golden finish.
Step 6: Bake Until Golden and Delicious
Bake the casserole for 30 to 35 minutes, or until the cornbread topping turns a perfect golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. This tells you the cornbread is cooked through, and the whole dish is ready to enjoy.
How to Serve Mexican Cornbread Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
To take your Mexican Cornbread Casserole Recipe to the next level, try garnishing it with fresh chopped cilantro, a dollop of sour cream, or slices of ripe avocado. These fresh toppings add brightness and balance the rich flavors beautifully.
Side Dishes
This casserole pairs wonderfully with simple sides that won’t compete with its bold flavors. Think along the lines of a crisp green salad tossed in lime vinaigrette, Spanish rice, or a bowl of black beans seasoned with cumin and garlic for a complete, satisfying meal.
Creative Ways to Present
Why not serve this dish family-style right from the baking dish for a cozy dinner vibe? Alternatively, scoop individual portions into colorful bowls and top each with a squeeze of fresh lime juice and a sprinkle of queso fresco. It’s all about making each serving feel special and inviting.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Mexican Cornbread Casserole Recipe keeps beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just cover it tightly to preserve moisture and flavors.
Freezing
If you want to take advantage of leftovers or prep ahead, freeze the casserole in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Make sure it’s completely cooled before sealing to maintain quality.
Reheating
To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge if frozen, then warm individual portions in the microwave or the whole dish covered in the oven at 350°F until heated through. You might want to add a little extra cheese on top for a melty finish.
FAQs
Can I make the casserole vegetarian?
Absolutely! Swap the ground beef with a plant-based meat alternative or extra beans for protein. The other ingredients stay the same and deliver plenty of flavor and texture.
What kind of cornbread mix works best?
Choose your favorite boxed cornbread mix—whether classic yellow or one with a hint of sweetness—as it provides that essential fluffy structure and traditional taste that makes this recipe shine.
Can I use fresh corn instead of canned?
Yes, fresh corn kernels add a naturally sweet crunch. Just sauté or steam them slightly before adding so they meld well with the other ingredients.
Is it possible to make this gluten-free?
You can easily substitute the cornbread mix with a gluten-free version, ensuring the rest of your ingredients (like taco seasoning) are gluten-free too. This keeps the dish safe for gluten-sensitive eaters without losing flavor.
How spicy is this casserole?
The heat level depends mostly on the taco seasoning and diced tomatoes with chilies you choose. You can adjust by selecting mild or hot versions and adding a dash of hot sauce on the side for those who want a fiery kick.
Final Thoughts
I can’t recommend this Mexican Cornbread Casserole Recipe enough if you want a meal that feels like a warm hug in food form. It’s easy to make, bursting with layered flavors, and perfect for feeding a hungry group. Give it a try and watch how quickly it disappears from the table—this one’s definitely a keeper!
Print
Mexican Cornbread Casserole Recipe
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
Description
This Mexican Cornbread Casserole is a savory, comforting dish combining spicy seasoned ground beef, sweet corn, tangy diced tomatoes with green chilies, and creamy sour cream-stirred cornbread batter, all topped with melted cheddar cheese. Perfect for family dinners, this casserole is easy to prepare and bakes to a golden, flavorful finish.
Ingredients
Beef Mixture
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 1 packet taco seasoning
- 1 can (10 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies, drained
- 1 can (15 oz) corn, drained
Cornbread Batter
- 1 box cornbread mix (including ingredients listed on the box, typically egg and milk)
- 1 cup sour cream
Topping
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Instructions
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Dish: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking and ensure 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 onions are softened. Drain any excess fat to keep the casserole from becoming greasy.
- Add Seasoning and Vegetables: Stir in the taco seasoning, drained diced tomatoes with green chilies, and drained corn. Let the mixture cook together for 5 minutes to meld the flavors, then remove from heat.
- Prepare Cornbread Batter: Follow the cornbread mix package instructions to prepare the batter, then fold in 1 cup of sour cream to add moisture and richness.
- Assemble Casserole: Spread the beef mixture evenly in the bottom of the greased baking dish. Pour the sour cream-infused cornbread batter over the beef layer, smoothing the top. Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the batter.
- Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes. The casserole is done when the cornbread topping is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the cornbread comes out clean.
Notes
- Drain the beef fat well to avoid a greasy casserole.
- For extra heat, add jalapeños or hot sauce to the beef mixture.
- You can substitute cheddar cheese with pepper jack for a spicier version.
- Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes after baking for easier slicing.
- If you prefer, use fresh corn instead of canned for a fresher taste.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mexican
