Mexican Hamburger-Corn Bread Bake
A savory Mexican-inspired casserole featuring cornmeal, seasoned ground beef, vegetables, and melted cheddar, perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease a baking dish evenly.
- In a mixing bowl, combine all ingredients: eggs, cornmeal, bacon drippings, chopped onion, bell pepper, cream-style corn, baking soda, salt, cooked hamburger, grated Cheddar cheese, and sliced jalapenos.
- Mix until well combined.
- Pour the mixture into the greased baking dish.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 45 minutes or until cooked through and golden on top.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter version, consider using ground turkey instead of hamburger. You can also replace bacon drippings with olive oil or butter for a healthier fat option. If you like more heat, add extra jalapenos or even some chopped chipotle peppers. This dish holds well, making it perfect for meal prep or potlucks. For a twist, try incorporating some sweet corn or black beans for added texture and flavor.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Mexican Hamburger-Corn Bread Bake warm, topped with a dollop of sour cream or guacamole for added richness. It pairs beautifully with a fresh salad or some refried beans on the side. For a complete meal, consider serving it alongside a batch of Crazy Corn Nachos for an exciting appetizer or snack.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, place individual servings in the microwave for 1-2 minutes or until warmed through. Alternatively, reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes, covering with foil to prevent over-browning.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Mexican Hamburger-Corn Bread Bake contains roughly 907 calories, with 32g protein, 89g carbohydrates, and 48g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (88% of the Daily Value), protein (64% of the Daily Value), and calcium (34% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 3000mg per serving (130% 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 mixture a day in advance and refrigerate it until you're ready to bake. Just give it a good stir before pouring it into the baking dish and adjust the baking time as needed since it may be cold from the fridge.
What can I substitute for Cheddar cheese?
If you prefer a milder flavor, Monterey Jack cheese works well as a substitute for Cheddar. For a stronger taste, try using Pepper Jack cheese, which adds a zesty kick that complements the jalapenos perfectly.
Can I add vegetables to this recipe?
Absolutely! Feel free to add other vegetables like zucchini, corn, or diced tomatoes for extra flavor and nutrition. Just be sure to chop them finely and adjust the baking time if necessary to ensure everything cooks evenly.
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).