Are you looking for a hearty and flavorful dish to add some spice to your dinner routine? Look no further than this Easy Mexican Cornbread Casserole With Ground Beef recipe! Packed with savory ground beef, zesty salsa, gooey cheese, and topped with a deliciously moist cornbread layer, this casserole is sure to become a family favorite. It’s perfect for busy weeknights, potlucks, or anytime you’re craving a comforting meal with a Mexican twist. Let’s dive into the details and learn how to make this crowd-pleasing dish step by step.
Introduction:
This Easy Mexican Cornbread Casserole With Ground Beef is a one-pan wonder that combines all the flavors of your favorite Mexican dishes into a satisfying and easy-to-make meal. With simple ingredients and minimal prep time, it’s a convenient option for busy days when you need a hearty dinner on the table fast. Plus, it’s versatile enough to customize with your favorite toppings and ingredients. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or enjoying a cozy night in, this casserole is sure to hit the spot!
Ingredients:
For the Ground Beef Mixture:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 small onion, diced
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 packet taco seasoning
- 1 cup salsa
For the Cornbread Layer:
- 1 cup cornmeal
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup milk
- 1/4 cup vegetable oil
- 1 egg
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Instructions:
- Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and set aside.
- Cook the Ground Beef:
- In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned. Add the diced onion and minced garlic, and cook until the onion is soft and translucent.
- Add the Taco Seasoning and Salsa:
- Sprinkle the taco seasoning over the ground beef mixture and stir until well combined. Pour in the salsa and stir until heated through. Remove from heat and set aside.
- Prepare the Cornbread Batter:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cornmeal, flour, baking powder, and salt. In a separate bowl, whisk together the milk, vegetable oil, and egg. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. Fold in the shredded cheddar cheese.
- Assemble the Casserole:
- Spread the cooked ground beef mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Pour the cornbread batter over the top, spreading it out to cover the beef mixture completely.
- Bake Until Golden Brown:
- Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cornbread is golden brown and cooked through.
- Serve and Enjoy:
- Once baked, remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before slicing. Serve hot and enjoy the delicious flavors!
Cook Notes and Variations:
- Vegetarian Option: Substitute the ground beef with cooked black beans or lentils for a vegetarian version of this casserole.
- Spice it Up: Add diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper to the ground beef mixture for an extra kick of heat.
- Cheese Variations: Experiment with different types of cheese such as pepper jack, Monterey Jack, or Mexican blend for a unique flavor profile.
- Topping Ideas: Serve with toppings such as sour cream, diced tomatoes, sliced avocado, or fresh cilantro for added flavor and freshness.
FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions):
Q: Can I make this casserole ahead of time? A: Yes, you can assemble the casserole up to a day in advance, cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil, and refrigerate until ready to bake. Allow it to come to room temperature before baking as directed.
Q: Can I freeze leftovers? A: Absolutely! This casserole freezes well. Once baked, let it cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil or transfer it to an airtight container. It can be frozen for up to 2-3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Q: Can I use different meats? A: Yes, you can substitute the ground beef with ground turkey, chicken, or pork if desired. Just adjust the seasoning to your taste preference.
Q: Can I use store-bought cornbread mix instead of making it from scratch? A: Yes, you can use a store-bought cornbread mix if you’re short on time. Follow the package instructions for the amount of mix and liquid needed.
Keto and Low-Carb Versions:
For those following a keto or low-carb lifestyle, here are some modifications to make a keto-friendly version of this Easy Mexican Cornbread Casserole With Ground Beef:
- Low-Carb Cornbread: Use almond flour or coconut flour instead of cornmeal and all-purpose flour for a low-carb cornbread topping.
- Keto Taco Seasoning: Make your own taco seasoning using keto-friendly spices such as chili powder, cumin, paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder without added sugar.
In conclusion, this Easy Mexican Cornbread Casserole With Ground Beef is a delicious and satisfying dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With its flavorful combination of seasoned ground beef, zesty salsa, and cheesy cornbread topping, it’s sure to please even the pickiest eaters. Plus, it’s easy to customize with your favorite ingredients and can be made ahead of time for added convenience. So why not give this recipe a try and enjoy a taste of Mexico right in your own kitchen?
