Cornbread Skillet Casserole
A hearty and cheesy skillet casserole combining sweet corn, spicy jalapenos, savory ground beef, and rich cheddar cheese. Perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings, it offers a comforting blend of flavors with a crispy top and moist interior. Versatile and satisfying, it's an easy, crowd-pleasing dish.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine eggs, cornmeal, creamed corn, milk, and vegetable oil in a bowl; set aside.
- Cook ground beef until browned; drain well and set aside.
- Pour half of the cornmeal mixture into a greased 1 1/2-inch cast-iron skillet.
- Spread the cooked beef evenly over the batter.
- Top with shredded Cheddar cheese, chopped onion, and chopped jalapenos or bell peppers.
- Pour the remaining batter over the toppings.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 40 to 45 minutes until golden and cooked through.
Tips & Substitutions
For a spicier kick, add more jalapenos or substitute them with diced bell peppers for a milder flavor. You can also use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef for a lighter option. If you don't have self-rising cornmeal, mix regular cornmeal with baking powder and salt. This dish can be made ahead and baked later, just ensure to refrigerate the assembled casserole until ready to cook.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this cornbread skillet casserole hot out of the oven with a side of fresh salsa or guacamole for added flavor. It pairs beautifully with a simple green salad or coleslaw. For a complete meal, consider serving it alongside a hearty soup or chili. This dish is a great option for potlucks or family gatherings, similar to the popular Seven Layer Dinner.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, about 20 minutes. Alternatively, you can microwave individual portions for 1-2 minutes, checking for doneness. The flavors will continue to meld after cooking, making it even tastier the next day.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cornbread Skillet Casserole contains roughly 1352 calories, with 39g protein, 157g carbohydrates, and 67g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (80% of the Daily Value), vitamin A (79% of the Daily Value), and protein (77% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1171mg per serving (51% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this casserole vegetarian?
Yes, you can easily make this casserole vegetarian by omitting the ground beef and adding more vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms. You can also incorporate black beans for added protein and texture. Just ensure to adjust the cooking time if you add more ingredients.
What can I use if I don't have Cheddar cheese?
If you don't have Cheddar cheese, you can substitute it with Monterey Jack, Pepper Jack, or even a blend of your favorite cheeses. Each will give a different flavor profile, enhancing the overall taste of the casserole. Just make sure to use a cheese that melts well for the best results.
How can I adjust the spiciness of the dish?
To adjust the spiciness, you can vary the number of jalapenos used or opt for milder peppers like poblano or Anaheim. Alternatively, you can remove the seeds from the jalapenos before adding them, as this will reduce the heat. For those who prefer no spice at all, simply omit the peppers.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).