Spice Up Your Menu with a Mouthwatering Mexican Cornbread Casserole

If you’re looking for a dish that combines comfort and vibrant flavors, Mexican Cornbread Casserole is a perfect choice. This hearty meal is not only satisfying but also incredibly versatile, making it ideal for family dinners, potlucks, or even meal prep. Let’s dive into this delightful recipe, which layers cornbread with savory ingredients to create a mouthwatering casserole.

Ingredients

For the Cornbread Layer:

• 1 cup cornmeal
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup sugar
• 1 tablespoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup milk
• 2 large eggs
• 1/4 cup vegetable oil
• 1 cup corn kernels (fresh, frozen, or canned)

For the Filling:

• 1 pound ground beef (or turkey)
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 1 bell pepper (any color), diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 can (10 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies
• 1 tablespoon taco seasoning (or to taste)
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
• Fresh cilantro for garnish (optional)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Cornbread Batter

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cornmeal, flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. Whisk until well blended.
3. Add Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the milk, eggs, and vegetable oil. Gradually add this mixture to the dry ingredients, stirring until just combined. Gently fold in the corn kernels.
4. Set Aside: Let the batter rest while you prepare the filling.

Step 2: Make the Filling

1. Cook the Meat: In a large skillet over medium heat, add the ground beef (or turkey). Cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon. Drain any excess fat.
2. Add Vegetables: To the skillet, add the chopped onion, diced bell pepper, and minced garlic. Sauté until the vegetables are softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Combine Ingredients: Stir in the black beans, diced tomatoes, and taco seasoning. Allow the mixture to simmer for a few minutes until heated through. Adjust seasoning to taste.

Step 3: Assemble the Casserole

1. Layer the Filling: In a greased 9x13-inch baking dish, spread the meat and bean mixture evenly across the bottom.
2. Top with Cornbread: Pour the cornbread batter over the filling, spreading it gently to cover.
3. Add Cheese (Optional): If you’re using cheese, sprinkle it on top of the cornbread layer.

Step 4: Bake

1. Bake the Casserole: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the cornbread is golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
2. Cool and Serve: Once baked, let the casserole cool for a few minutes before slicing. Garnish with fresh cilantro if desired.

Serving Suggestions

Mexican Cornbread Casserole is delicious on its own but can be served with a variety of sides. Consider pairing it with:

• A simple green salad
• Sliced avocado or guacamole
• Sour cream or Greek yogurt
• Salsa or pico de gallo for extra zest

Tips for Variations

• Vegetarian Version: Substitute the ground meat with extra beans or sautéed vegetables like zucchini and mushrooms.
• Spicy Kick: Add jalapeños to the meat mixture for some heat or use spicy diced tomatoes.
• Cheesy Goodness: Incorporate different types of cheese like pepper jack for a spicier flavor or mozzarella for a milder taste.