Mexican Cornbread Casserole
Hey there, friend! If you’re craving something hearty, cheesy, and packed with bold Mexican flavors, you’ve come to the right place.
This Mexican Cornbread Casserole is the ultimate comfort food mashup—think fluffy, golden cornbread topping a saucy, spiced ground beef and bean filling.
It’s the kind of dish that’ll have your family begging for seconds (and maybe even thirds).
Plus, it’s super easy to throw together, making it perfect for busy weeknights or potluck dinners.
How to Make It
Note: This is an overview. See recipe card below this post for ingredient quantities and full instructions.
1. Preheat and Prep
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures the casserole bakes evenly and the cornbread topping rises perfectly. While the oven heats up, grab a 9×13-inch baking dish and lightly grease it with butter or cooking spray. This step is crucial to prevent sticking and make cleanup a breeze.
2. Cook the Filling
In a large skillet over medium heat, cook 1 lb of ground beef until it’s browned and crumbly. Add 1 small diced onion and 2 minced garlic cloves, cooking until the onion is soft and fragrant. Stir in 1 tbsp chili powder, 1 tsp cumin, and 1 tsp paprika to infuse the beef with bold, smoky flavors. Next, add 1 can of drained and rinsed black beans, 1 can of diced tomatoes with green chilies, and 1 cup of enchilada sauce. Let the mixture simmer for 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together into a rich, saucy filling.
3. Layer the Casserole
Transfer the beef mixture to the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly. Sprinkle 1 ½ cups of shredded cheddar cheese over the top. The cheese will melt into the filling, creating a gooey, irresistible layer that ties everything together.
4. Top with Cornbread Batter
In a mixing bowl, prepare the cornbread batter according to the package instructions (or use your favorite homemade recipe). The batter should be thick but pourable. Carefully spread it over the beef and cheese layer, using a spatula to ensure it’s evenly distributed. The cornbread will rise and turn golden as it bakes, creating a slightly sweet contrast to the savory filling.
5. Bake to Perfection
Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the cornbread is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The edges should be slightly bubbling, and the cheese should be melted and gooey.
6. Garnish and Serve
Once baked, let the casserole cool for 5 minutes to set. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves for a pop of color and freshness. Serve with a dollop of sour cream and a drizzle of hot sauce for an extra kick. Slice into squares and enjoy this hearty, flavorful dish straight from the oven!
Pro Tips
- Spice it up: Add diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne to the beef mixture for extra heat.
- Make it ahead:Â Assemble the casserole up to a day in advance and bake it when ready.
- Customize the toppings:Â Try avocado slices, pickled red onions, or a squeeze of lime for a fresh twist.
Storage
- Refrigerate:Â Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freeze:Â Wrap the casserole tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating.
- Reheat: Warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, or microwave individual portions.
Mexican Cornbread Casserole: A Cheesy, Spicy, Comfort Food Dream
Description
This Mexican Cornbread Casserole is the ultimate comfort food mashup! A savory, spiced ground beef and bean filling is topped with fluffy, golden cornbread and melted cheese, creating a dish that’s as easy to make as it is delicious.
Perfect for feeding a crowd or enjoying as leftovers all week long.
Ingredients
Instructions
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Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9x13-inch baking dish.
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In a skillet, cook ground beef, onion, and garlic over medium heat until beef is browned. Drain excess fat.
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Stir in chili powder, cumin, paprika, black beans, diced tomatoes, and enchilada sauce. Simmer for 5 minutes.
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Transfer the beef mixture to the prepared baking dish and sprinkle with shredded cheese.
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Prepare the cornbread batter according to package instructions and spread it evenly over the beef and cheese layer.
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Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the cornbread is golden and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
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Let cool for 5 minutes, then garnish with cilantro and serve with sour cream and hot sauce.
Nutrition Facts
Servings 8
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 420kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 18g28%
- Total Carbohydrate 38g13%
- Dietary Fiber 6g24%
- Sugars 8g
- Protein 24g48%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
Note
- For a spicier kick, add diced jalapeños to the beef mixture.
- Substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option.
- Use a homemade cornbread batter if preferred.
These values are approximate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients and brands used. Always check your ingredient labels for precise nutrition details.
