Quick Mexican Corn Bread
A flavorful and hearty Mexican-inspired corn bread with ground meat, cheddar, onions, and jalapenos, perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Make corn bread batter as directed on the package.
- Stir in the cream-style corn.
- Brown the ground meat in a skillet.
- Remove the meat from the skillet, draining well.
- Pour half of the batter into the skillet on top of the meat drippings.
- Add the cooked meat, grated cheddar cheese, chopped onion, and chopped jalapeno peppers on top of the batter.
- Top with the remaining batter.
- Bake at 350°F for 1 hour or until done.
Tips & Substitutions
For a twist, consider adding black beans or corn kernels to the batter for extra texture. If you're looking for a vegetarian option, substitute the ground meat with a plant-based alternative or skip it altogether. Using a spicy cheese can elevate the flavor profile, and feel free to adjust the jalapeno amount based on your heat preference. Pairing with Chipotle Mayonnaise can enhance the dish further.
Serving Suggestions
This corn bread pairs beautifully with a fresh salad or a side of guacamole for a complete meal. For a fun twist, serve it alongside Debi'S Mexican Bean Dip or use it as a base for a walking taco dip. It can also be enjoyed as a snack on its own or with salsa for dipping, making it versatile for any occasion.
Storage & Reheating
To store leftovers, let the corn bread cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and place it in an airtight container. It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place individual slices in the microwave for about 30-45 seconds or warm it in the oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes until heated through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Quick Mexican Corn Bread contains roughly 444 calories, with 10g protein, 60g carbohydrates, and 18g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (20% of the Daily Value) and dietary fiber (20% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 856mg per serving (37% 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 Longhorn Cheddar adds a nice flavor, you can experiment with Monterey Jack, pepper jack, or even a Mexican blend for varied taste. Just ensure the cheese melts well to maintain the desired texture in the corn bread.
What ground meat works best for this recipe?
Ground beef is commonly used, but you can also use ground turkey, chicken, or pork for different flavors. If you prefer a leaner option, turkey or chicken are great substitutes. Just make sure to season the meat well to enhance the overall dish.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the batter and meat mixture in advance, then assemble and bake it when you're ready to serve. If you prepare it a day ahead, keep it refrigerated and bake it fresh for the best texture. Just allow a few extra minutes of baking time if it's coming straight from the fridge.
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).