Texas Cornbread Casserole
A hearty and flavorful cornbread casserole layered with savory meat, cheese, onions, and jalapenos, perfect for comfort food lovers and family gatherings alike.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix the first eight ingredients (cornmeal, eggs, milk, salt, sugar, baking powder, flour, bacon drippings or oil) together to make the batter.
- Add the can of cream-style corn to the batter and mix well; set aside.
- Grease a 9 x 13-inch baking dish.
- Pour half of the batter mixture into the prepared pan.
- Layer the hamburger meat, cheese, chopped onion, and chopped jalapenos over the batter.
- Add the remaining batter on top of the layered ingredients.
- Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 35 to 40 minutes until golden and cooked through.
Tips & Substitutions
For a spicier kick, consider adding more jalapenos or using pepper jack cheese instead of regular cheese. If you want a healthier option, substitute half of the bacon drippings with olive oil. You can also use ground turkey or chicken instead of hamburger meat for a leaner protein choice. This casserole can also incorporate leftover veggies for added flavor and nutrition.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this hearty Texas Cornbread Casserole with a side of fresh salad or some homemade cornbread for a complete meal. It pairs beautifully with Delicious Potato Salad Bake for a well-rounded dinner. For a casual gathering, consider offering chips and salsa as a starter or side dish to complement the flavors.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, place individual portions in the microwave for 1-2 minutes or until heated through. Alternatively, reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes, covered with foil to prevent drying out.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Texas Cornbread Casserole contains roughly 463 calories, with 16g protein, 77g carbohydrates, and 11g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (31% of the Daily Value) and iron (25% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C and dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1787mg per serving (78% 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 ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. Just make sure to cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. When ready to serve, remove it from the fridge and bake as directed, possibly adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
What can I use instead of cream-style corn?
If you don't have cream-style corn, you can substitute it with regular canned corn mixed with a little cream or milk to achieve a similar consistency. Alternatively, pureed corn can also work well, providing the necessary moisture and sweetness to the casserole.
Can I freeze this casserole?
Yes, this casserole freezes well. Allow it to cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil before placing it in the freezer. It will last for up to 2-3 months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and bake as directed, ensuring it is heated through before serving.
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).