Mexican Sunday Special
A hearty Mexican-inspired casserole combining seasoned ground beef, chili, corn, and cheesy cornbread topping, perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings with bold flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown the ground beef in a skillet; drain well.
- Mix the cooked beef with chili with beans and cream-style corn.
- Pour the meat mixture into a 9 x 13-inch pan or cast-iron skillet.
- Prepare the Jiffy cornbread mix according to package instructions, adding more liquid to make the batter thinner.
- Pour the cornbread batter on top of the meat mixture.
- Bake at 400°F (200°C) until the topping is done and golden.
Tips & Substitutions
For an extra kick, consider adding diced jalapeños or chopped green chilies to the meat mixture. If you prefer a vegetarian option, substitute the ground beef with lentils or a meat alternative. You can also enhance the flavor by using homemade chili instead of canned. For a more traditional flavor, add cumin and smoked paprika to the meat mixture.
Serving Suggestions
This dish pairs beautifully with a fresh green salad or some guacamole on the side. Consider serving it with tortilla chips for added crunch. For a complete meal, you might also enjoy it alongside a refreshing salsa or a dollop of sour cream. It’s perfect for family gatherings or game day celebrations.
Storage & Reheating
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place in a microwave-safe dish and heat until warmed through, or reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until hot. For best results, cover with foil to prevent the cornbread from drying out.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Mexican Sunday Special contains roughly 385 calories, with 18g protein, 34g carbohydrates, and 20g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (36% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and dietary fiber. At about 385 calories per serving, it is a lighter, protein-rich choice.
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 recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the meat mixture and cornbread batter a day in advance. Store them separately in the refrigerator. When ready to bake, combine them in the pan and follow the baking instructions. This makes it a convenient option for busy days.
What can I substitute for Jiffy cornbread mix?
If you don’t have Jiffy cornbread mix, you can use a homemade cornbread recipe or any other cornbread mix. Just be sure to adjust the liquid according to the recipe to keep the batter thin enough to spread over the meat mixture.
Can I freeze the Mexican Sunday Special?
Yes, this dish freezes well! Assemble the casserole but do not bake it. Instead, cover tightly with plastic wrap and then aluminum foil before freezing. When ready to enjoy, bake from frozen, increasing the baking time as needed, until heated through.
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).