Mexican Skillet Cornbread Casserole
A hearty Mexican-inspired skillet casserole featuring cornbread, seasoned ground beef, melted cheese, and spicy jalapenos—perfect for comforting family dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine cornmeal, baking soda, salt, creamed corn, milk, and cooking oil in a bowl. Set aside.
- Cook ground beef until browned; drain well.
- Pour half of the cornmeal mixture into a greased 10-inch skillet.
- Sprinkle the cooked ground beef evenly over the batter.
- Top with shredded Cheddar cheese, chopped onion, and chopped jalapenos.
- Pour the remaining batter over the top.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 45 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a spicier kick, consider using more jalapenos or adding a dash of cayenne pepper to the batter. If you want a lighter version, substitute ground turkey for beef and use low-fat cheese. You can also replace half the cornmeal with masa harina for a different texture. Make sure to grease the skillet well to avoid sticking.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this Mexican Skillet Cornbread Casserole with a side of Mexican Rice Dinner for a complete meal. It also pairs well with a fresh avocado salad or dollops of sour cream and salsa on top. For a fun twist, consider serving it with a side of Taco Salad Soup for added flavor and variety.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place slices in a microwave-safe dish and cover with a damp paper towel to keep the cornbread moist. Heat in 30-second intervals until warmed through. For a crispier texture, reheat in a skillet over medium heat.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Mexican Skillet Cornbread Casserole contains roughly 972 calories, with 26g protein, 87g carbohydrates, and 61g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (62% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (57% of the Daily Value), and protein (53% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1584mg per serving (69% 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 step, cover it tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Just remember to let it come to room temperature before baking it to ensure even cooking.
Can I freeze the leftovers?
Absolutely! Allow the casserole to cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil before freezing. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 months. Reheat in the oven, covered, until warmed through.
What can I use instead of ground beef?
You can substitute ground chicken or turkey for a lighter option, or use black beans or lentils for a vegetarian version. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly if you're using precooked beans or lentils.
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).