Mexican Cornbread Casserole

Mexican Cornbread Casserole Recipe – A hearty and delicious one-dish meal that combines seasoned ground beef, vibrant bell peppers, corn, and a cheesy cornbread topping. This easy Mexican casserole is perfect for busy weeknights, family dinners, or gatherings. The flavorful combination of spices like chili powder, cumin, and oregano with Mexican cheese and salsa makes every bite irresistible. Plus, this casserole is customizable with vegetarian options or extra toppings. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a comforting and filling meal everyone will love. Mexican Cornbread Casserole is sure to become a family favorite!

This Mexican Cornbread Casserole is a hearty, flavorful dish combining seasoned ground beef, fresh vegetables, and a cheesy cornbread topping. The perfect comfort food with a southwestern twist, it’s easy to make and sure to satisfy the whole family!

Ingredients

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 cup chopped onion
• ½ cup chopped red bell pepper
• ½ cup chopped green bell pepper
• 1 pound lean ground beef (90% lean)
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1 teaspoon oregano
• ⅛ teaspoon ground cinnamon
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 cup frozen corn
• 1 cup shredded Mexican cheese blend, divided
• 1 cup salsa

For the cornbread topping:

• 1 cup cornmeal
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1 cup milk
• 2 eggs

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Instructions

1. Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Sauté the veggies:

• Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chopped onion and bell peppers. Sauté for 3 minutes until the onions are translucent but not browned.

1. Cook the beef mixture:

• Add ground beef, minced garlic, and the spices (chili powder, cumin, oregano, cinnamon, salt, and pepper). Cook until the beef is browned and fully cooked, breaking it apart as it cooks.

1. Add corn:

• Stir in frozen corn and cook for an additional minute to allow it to defrost and heat through.

1. Melt cheese:

• Turn off the heat and mix in ¼ cup of shredded Mexican cheese blend. Stir until the cheese is melted into the beef mixture.

1. Assemble the casserole:

• Transfer the beef mixture into a 9×13-inch casserole dish. Top evenly with 1 cup of salsa.

1. Prepare the cornbread topping:

• In a separate bowl, whisk together cornmeal, baking soda, salt, milk, and eggs until smooth. Don’t worry if the batter isn’t completely even.

1. Add cornbread topping:

• Pour the cornbread batter over the beef and salsa mixture in the casserole dish. Sprinkle the remaining ¾ cup of shredded cheese evenly on top.

1. Bake:

• Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 30-40 minutes, or until the cornbread is golden and cooked through, and the cheese is melted and bubbly.

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Tips

• Avoid Overcooking the Veggies: Be careful not to brown the bell peppers and onions when sautéing. You want them soft but vibrant.
• Make Sure the Meat is Fully Cooked: Ensure there’s no pink left in the ground beef before adding the corn.
• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: For the best cornbread texture, let your milk and eggs sit at room temperature before mixing.

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Variations and Substitutions

• Vegetarian Version: Replace the ground beef with black beans, pinto beans, or quinoa for a vegetarian casserole.
• Cheese Options: Substitute the Mexican cheese blend with cheddar, Monterey Jack, or Pepper Jack for different flavors.
• Corn Alternatives: You can use fresh corn instead of frozen or try bell pepper and zucchini for a different veggie mix.
• Spicy Twist: Add jalapeños or green chilies for a spicy kick.

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FAQs

Q: Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
A: Yes! You can prepare the casserole a day ahead, cover it, and refrigerate it. Bake it just before serving.

Q: How can I store leftovers?
A: Store leftover casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave.

Q: Can I freeze this casserole?
A: Yes, you can freeze the casserole before or after baking. Freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven from frozen, adding extra time.

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Serving Suggestions

• Serve with a side of guacamole or sour cream for extra flavor.
• Pair with a fresh green salad to balance the richness of the casserole.
• For added texture, top with chopped cilantro and a squeeze of lime juice.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Hearty & Filling: A perfect one-dish meal that combines protein, veggies, and cornbread in one bite.
• Quick & Easy: This casserole is easy to prepare and requires minimal prep time.
• Customizable: You can adjust the flavors and ingredients to fit your preferences, making it ideal for everyone at the table.

Enjoy the bold flavors of Mexican Cornbread Casserole, perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings!