Prepare your taste buds for a culinary fiesta with our Mexican Cornbread Casserole—an irresistible fusion of Tex-Mex flavors in a comforting casserole format. This dish brings together the heartiness of ground beef, the sweetness of cornbread, and the zing of Mexican spices for a meal that’s as satisfying as it is flavorful. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or seeking a quick and delicious family dinner, this recipe promises to be a crowd-pleaser. Join us as we explore the ingredients, guide you through the step-by-step instructions, share cook notes and variations, and provide keto and low-carb versions. Get ready to embark on a journey of taste with Mexican Cornbread Casserole!
Ingredients
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 unsalted butter, melted
- 1 egg
For the Meat Filling:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 1 bell pepper, diced
- 1 can (15 ounces) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup corn kernels (fresh, frozen, or canned)
- 1 can (10 ounces) diced tomatoes with green chilies
- 1 packet taco seasoning
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Toppings (Optional):
- Chopped fresh cilantro
- Diced tomatoes
- Sliced jalapeños
- Sour cream
- Avocado slices
Instructions
Preparing the Cornbread Layer:
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a bowl, whisk together cornmeal, flour, baking powder, and salt.
- Combine Wet Ingredients: In another bowl, mix milk, melted butter, and egg. Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, stirring until just combined.
- Bake the Cornbread: Pour the cornbread batter into the prepared baking dish and bake for 15-20 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Crafting the Meat Filling:
- Cook Ground Beef: In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned. Drain excess fat.
- Add Vegetables and Seasoning: Add chopped onion and diced bell pepper to the skillet. Sauté until vegetables are softened. Stir in black beans, corn, diced tomatoes with green chilies, and taco seasoning. Cook for an additional 5-7 minutes.
- Assemble the Casserole: Spread the meat filling evenly over the baked cornbread layer in the baking dish. Top with shredded cheddar cheese.
- Broil for Cheese Melt: Place the casserole under the broiler for 2-3 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Serving and Toppings:
- Garnish and Serve: Remove the casserole from the oven, and let it cool slightly. Garnish with chopped cilantro, diced tomatoes, sliced jalapeños, sour cream, and avocado slices.
Cook Notes
- Cornbread Consistency: For a moister cornbread layer, you can add a couple of tablespoons of sour cream or Greek yogurt to the batter.
- Customize Taco Seasoning: Experiment with homemade taco seasoning for a more personalized flavor profile, adjusting the spice level to your liking.
- Make-Ahead Option: You can prepare the cornbread layer and meat filling separately ahead of time and assemble the casserole just before baking.
Variations
1. Spicy Kick:
Amp up the heat by incorporating diced jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper into the cornbread batter or meat filling.
2. Veggie Delight:
Add a variety of vegetables to the meat filling, such as zucchini, mushrooms, or spinach, for an extra burst of nutrition.
3. Creamy Surprise:
Mix cream cheese into the meat filling for a luscious, creamy twist that complements the bold flavors.
Keto Versions
For those on a keto journey, consider these modifications:
- Almond Flour Cornbread: Substitute almond flour for all-purpose flour in the cornbread layer for a keto-friendly alternative.
- Low-Carb Taco Seasoning: Make or choose a low-carb taco seasoning mix or create your own with keto-approved spices.
- Cauliflower Rice Base: Replace the black beans and corn with cauliflower rice for a lower-carb option in the meat filling.
Low-Carb Version
To cater to low-carb preferences, make these adjustments:
- Almond Flour and Coconut Flour Blend: Combine almond flour with coconut flour for a lower-carb alternative in the cornbread layer.
- Reduced-Carb Beans: Use black soybeans or another low-carb bean substitute in the meat filling.
- Broccoli or Cauliflower Additions: Include chopped broccoli or cauliflower in the meat filling for added bulk and fewer carbs.
Mexican Cornbread Casserole is a celebration of bold flavors and comforting textures—a dish that brings together the essence of Tex-Mex cuisine in a delightful casserole format. Whether you follow the classic recipe, explore tempting variations, or adapt it to keto and low-carb lifestyles, this casserole invites you to savor the vibrant and rich flavors of a Mexican-inspired feast. So, preheat your oven, gather your ingredients, and immerse yourself in the culinary joy of Mexican Cornbread Casserole. Here’s to the magic of festive flavors and the joy of sharing a meal that’s as comforting as it is delicious!
