Description
This Mexican Cornbread Casserole is a hearty, one-pan meal packed with bold flavors! Savory ground beef, zesty tomatoes, and green chilies are layered between a moist, slightly sweet cornbread base, then topped with gooey cheddar cheese. This easy-to-make casserole is perfect for busy weeknights, potlucks, or meal prep. Customize it with beans, jalapeños, or different cheeses for a unique twist!
Ingredients
1 lb ground beef
1 medium onion, chopped
1 packet taco seasoning
1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
1 can (4 oz) green chilies, chopped
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1 box cornbread mix (like Jiffy)
1 egg
1/3 cup milk
1/4 cup sour cream
1 tablespoon olive oil
1/2 teaspoon cumin
Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Cook the beef: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart.
- Sauté onion: Add chopped onion and cook for 3-4 minutes until softened.
- Season & simmer: Stir in taco seasoning, diced tomatoes (with juices), and green chilies. Let simmer for 5 minutes.
- Prepare cornbread batter: In a bowl, mix cornbread mix, egg, milk, sour cream, cumin, salt, and pepper until smooth.
- Assemble casserole: Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish. Spread half of the cornbread batter at the bottom.
- Layer the filling: Add beef mixture over the cornbread layer, then spread the remaining cornbread batter on top.
- Add cheese: Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese evenly.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes until golden brown and a toothpick comes out clean.
- Cool & serve: Let sit for 5 minutes before slicing and serving.
Notes
Add beans: Black beans or pinto beans for extra texture.
Make it spicy: Add diced jalapeños or top with hot sauce.
Use different cheese: Try Monterey Jack or a Mexican blend.
Make it vegetarian: Swap beef for black beans, lentils, or plant-based meat.
Toppings: Serve with sour cream, guacamole, cilantro, or salsa.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Dinner, Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mexican-Inspired
Nutrition
- Serving Size: Serves 6
- Calories: 380 kcal
