Jalapeno Cornbread Meal
A flavorful jalapeno cornbread layered with seasoned ground beef, salsa, and cheese, perfect for a hearty family meal with a spicy, savory taste.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown the ground beef and onion, then set aside.
- Make batter using cornmeal, canned milk, egg, cream-style corn, and melted margarine.
- Pour half of the batter into a greased baking dish.
- Spread the cooked beef mixture on top of the batter.
- Pour salsa over the beef layer.
- Sprinkle shredded cheese over the salsa.
- Top with the remaining batter.
- Bake at 325°F for 50 to 60 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider incorporating diced jalapeños or bell peppers into the beef mixture. If you don't have self-rising cornmeal, you can substitute all-purpose flour mixed with baking powder and salt. For a more moist cornbread, use buttermilk instead of canned milk. You can also add spices like cumin or chili powder to the beef for extra depth, similar to flavors found in American recipes.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Jalapeno Cornbread Meal warm, topped with a dollop of sour cream or guacamole for a creamy contrast. It pairs beautifully with a side salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. This dish is also great alongside chili dishes like Party Chili for a hearty gathering, making it perfect for potlucks or family dinners.
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 bake in the oven at 350°F until heated through. Cover with aluminum foil to prevent the top from over-browning during reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Jalapeno Cornbread Meal contains roughly 771 calories, with 14g protein, 139g carbohydrates, and 21g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (102% of the Daily Value), vitamin A (40% of the Daily Value), and protein (28% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1354mg per serving (59% 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 dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the entire dish and refrigerate it before baking. Just cover it tightly with foil or plastic wrap. When ready to bake, remove the cover and bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes if baking from cold.
What can I use instead of ground beef?
You can substitute ground turkey, chicken, or even a plant-based meat alternative for a lighter or vegetarian version. Adjust the cooking time as needed, especially for poultry, to ensure it is fully cooked.
How do I know when the cornbread is done?
The cornbread is done when it is golden brown on top and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. If the top is browning too quickly, cover it with foil to prevent burning while the center finishes baking.
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).