Mexican Corn Bread(Casserole)
A flavorful Mexican-inspired corn casserole with spicy jalapenos, savory ground beef, and melted cheddar, perfect for hearty family dinners or potlucks.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix corn meal mix, eggs, milk, and creamed corn in a bowl.
- Brown ground beef, chopped onions, and chopped jalapeno peppers in a small amount of oil.
- Season the meat mixture with salt and pepper.
- Pour half of the corn meal batter into an 8 to 12-inch Pyrex dish.
- Layer the cooked meat mixture and grated cheddar cheese over the batter.
- Cover with the remaining corn meal batter.
- Bake for 1 hour at 320°F or until a knife inserted in the center comes out clean.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider incorporating spices such as cumin or chili powder into the meat mixture. If you prefer a vegetarian version, swap out the ground beef for black beans or lentils. You can also use different types of cheese like Monterey Jack for a milder taste. Be sure to adjust the heat of the jalapenos based on your preference.
Serving Suggestions
This Mexican Corn Bread makes a hearty main dish, perfect for a casual dinner or potluck. Serve it alongside a fresh green salad or your favorite salsa for added freshness. It pairs beautifully with Quick And Easy Taco Salad Pie for a complete meal, or enjoy it as a filling side dish with grilled meats.
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 about 1-2 minutes, or reheat the entire dish in the oven at 350°F until warmed through. This dish also freezes well for up to 2 months.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Mexican Corn Bread(Casserole) contains roughly 749 calories, with 22g protein, 91g carbohydrates, and 34g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (46% of the Daily Value), protein (44% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (38% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 872mg per serving (38% 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 use a different type of cheese?
Absolutely! While Cheddar cheese adds a nice sharpness, you can substitute it with Monterey Jack, Pepper Jack, or even a blend of cheeses for a different flavor profile. Just keep in mind that different cheeses may melt differently and can affect the overall texture.
How can I make this dish spicier?
To increase the heat, you can add more jalapenos or incorporate diced green chilies into the meat mixture. Alternatively, sprinkle some cayenne pepper or hot sauce into the batter before baking. Adjust the spice level to your taste preference for the perfect kick.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the corn bread mixture and meat filling in advance. Assemble the casserole and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it goes into the oven cold.
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).