Jalapeno Cornbread Casserole
A spicy, cheesy casserole combining savory cornbread with seasoned ground beef, melted cheddar, and fiery jalapenos. Perfect for a hearty family dinner or a crowd-pleasing dish at gatherings, it offers a comforting blend of flavors with a kick of heat and satisfying texture.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown the hamburger and chopped onion in a skillet.
- In a large mixing bowl, add cornbread mix, milk, egg, oil, and creamed corn and mix well.
- Pour half of the mixture into a deep cast-iron skillet.
- Layer the cooked hamburger and onion mixture on top of the batter.
- Add a layer of shredded Cheddar cheese over the beef mixture.
- Top with chopped jalapeno peppers.
- Cover with the remaining cornbread mixture.
- Bake at 350°F for 1 hour.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider mixing in some cooked bacon or diced bell peppers alongside the hamburger. If you want a lighter version, you can substitute the ground beef with turkey or even a plant-based meat alternative. Adjust the number of jalapenos according to your spice preference. This dish is similar to other hearty casseroles like Bacon Cabbage Casserole, making it versatile for gatherings.
Serving Suggestions
This Jalapeno Cornbread Casserole is delicious on its own but can be served alongside a fresh salad, such as Sail Along Salad, for a balanced meal. Consider pairing it with a dollop of sour cream or a side of salsa for extra flavor. It's also great as a potluck dish, as it caters to a variety of tastes.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place individual portions in the microwave for 1-2 minutes or warm the entire casserole in the oven at 350°F until heated through, about 20-25 minutes. You can also freeze it for up to 2 months; just thaw before reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Jalapeno Cornbread Casserole contains roughly 1553 calories, with 22g protein, 145g carbohydrates, and 108g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (124% of the Daily Value), protein (44% of the Daily Value), and iron (34% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 993mg per serving (43% 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 ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole up to the baking stage and refrigerate it overnight. Just cover it tightly with plastic wrap. When you're ready to bake, remove it from the fridge and let it sit for 30 minutes before baking at 350°F. This helps ensure even cooking.
How can I make this dish spicier?
To increase the heat, try adding more jalapenos or incorporate a spicy pepper jack cheese in place of the Cheddar. You can also mix in some diced green chilies or a dash of hot sauce during the preparation for an extra kick.
Is there a vegetarian version of this casserole?
Absolutely! You can replace the ground beef with a mixture of beans or lentils for protein. Using a meat substitute or additional vegetables like zucchini and bell peppers can also enhance the texture and flavor while keeping it vegetarian-friendly.
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).