Mexican Cornbread With Ground Meat
A flavorful Mexican-inspired cornbread loaded with ground meat, cheddar cheese, and spicy jalapenos, perfect for hearty family dinners or casual gatherings with bold, comforting flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix the first seven ingredients—cornmeal, eggs, sweet milk, soda, salt, cream-style corn, and bacon drippings or vegetable oil—and set aside.
- Brown the ground meat in a skillet; drain off excess grease and spread the cooked meat on paper towels to drain.
- Prepare the chopped onion, grated cheddar cheese, and chopped jalapeno peppers; place each in separate mounds, ready to use.
Tips & Substitutions
For a spicier cornbread, consider adding diced green chilies or extra jalapenos. If you're out of bacon drippings, vegetable oil or melted butter are suitable substitutes. To enhance the flavor, you can mix in some spices like cumin or paprika. If you prefer a vegetarian version, simply omit the ground meat and add black beans or corn for added texture. This dish is versatile and can be customized to your taste.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this Mexican cornbread warm, topped with a dollop of sour cream or guacamole for added creaminess. It pairs beautifully with Pacos or can be served alongside a fresh salad like Zack'S Favorite Taco Salad for a complete meal. Consider adding a side of salsa for a flavorful kick, or enjoy it as a standalone dish at your next gathering.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place slices in the microwave for 30-60 seconds, or until warmed through. Alternatively, you can reheat in the oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes, which helps to keep the cornbread moist. This makes it easy to enjoy throughout the week.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Mexican Cornbread With Ground Meat contains roughly 464 calories, with 20g protein, 67g carbohydrates, and 14g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (41% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (29% of the Daily Value), and iron (29% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C and calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1258mg per serving (55% 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 another type of cheese in this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute the Cheddar cheese with Monterey Jack, Pepper Jack, or even a Mexican blend for a different flavor profile. Each cheese brings its own unique taste, allowing you to customize the dish based on your preferences.
How can I make this cornbread gluten-free?
To make this cornbread gluten-free, simply replace regular cornmeal with a certified gluten-free cornmeal. Additionally, ensure that other ingredients, such as baking soda, are gluten-free if necessary. This way, you can enjoy a delicious gluten-free version of this dish.
Can I freeze the leftover cornbread?
Yes, you can freeze leftover cornbread! Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, and then place it in an airtight container or freezer bag. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and warm it in the oven or microwave.
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).