GROUND BEEF JIFFY CORNBREAD CASSEROLE: The Ultimate Comfort Food for Busy Weeknights

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Ground Beef Jiffy Cornbread Casserole
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Imagine a golden cornbread crust cradling savory ground beef, melted cheese, and sweet corn—this is the soul-warming dish your family will beg for again and again. Tailored for home cooks who crave hearty meals without the fuss, this Ground Beef Jiffy Cornbread Casserole delivers nostalgia and flavor in every bite. Whether you’re feeding a hungry crowd or meal-prepping for the week, this recipe transforms pantry staples into a satisfying dinner masterpiece.

Why This Ground Beef Jiffy Cornbread Casserole Belongs on Your Table

There’s something magical about the marriage of crispy cornbread and savory ground beef—a combination that whispers of Sunday suppers, potlucks, and cozy weeknights. This Ground Beef Jiffy Cornbread Casserole embodies the essence of comfort food, blending smoky chili powder, sweet corn, and gooey cheddar into a one-pan wonder. Jiffy corn muffin mix simplifies the prep, ensuring tender, slightly sweet cornbread that bakes into a golden crown over the hearty filling.

Perfect for holidays, family dinners, or quick casserole nights, this dish is endlessly adaptable. Swap ingredients based on what’s in your fridge (hello, leftover veggies!), or double the batch for freezer-friendly meals. Serve it with a crisp green salad or tangy coleslaw for a complete meal that’ll have everyone reaching for seconds.

Alternate Names & Variations

This recipe goes by many names, reflecting its regional charm and versatility. Try searching for:

  • Beefy Cornbread Bake
  • Tex-Mex Cornbread Casserole
  • Cowboy Cornbread Skillet

Variation Tip: For a spicier cornbread bake, add diced jalapeños or swap cheddar for pepper jack cheese.

Gather Your Ingredients

Ground Beef Jiffy Cornbread Casserole
Fig.1 – Ground Beef Jiffy Cornbread Casserole
  • 1 pound ground beef (80/20 blend for juiciness)
  • 1 large onion, finely diced
  • 2 cups frozen corn (no need to thaw)
  • 1 tablespoon chili powder (adjust to taste)
  • 2 teaspoons ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon garlic salt
  • ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper
  • 2 boxes (8.5 ounces each) Jiffy corn muffin mix
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 cup whole milk
  • ½ cup sour cream (full-fat for richness)
  • 2 tablespoons butter, melted
  • 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese, divided
  • 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes, thoroughly drained

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. Preheat & Prep: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
  2. Brown the Beef: In a skillet, cook ground beef and onion over medium heat until beef is browned and onion is tender (6–8 minutes). Drain excess fat. Stir in frozen corn, chili powder, cumin, garlic salt, and pepper.
  3. Mix Cornbread Batter: In a bowl, whisk together Jiffy mixes, eggs, milk, sour cream, melted butter, and 1 cup of shredded cheddar until just combined (avoid overmixing).
  4. Layer the Casserole: Spread beef mixture evenly in the baking dish. Top with drained diced tomatoes and remaining 1 cup of cheese. Pour cornbread batter over the top and smooth gently.
  5. Bake & Rest: Bake 35–40 minutes or until cornbread is golden and a toothpick inserted comes out clean. Let rest 10 minutes before serving.

Chef’s Tip: For extra-crispy edges, broil the casserole for 1–2 minutes at the end of baking.

Ground Beef Jiffy Cornbread Casserole Recipe Card

Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cook Time: 40 minutes | Total Time: 55 minutes | Servings: 6 | Calories: ~580 per serving

Why This Recipe Works

The magic lies in the contrasts: moist, spiced beef balanced by fluffy cornbread, with pockets of melted cheese binding it all together. Jiffy mix’s signature sweetness complements the savory filling, while sour cream keeps the cornbread tender. This quick casserole is designed for busy households—it’s forgiving, flexible, and freezer-friendly.

Expert Tips:

  • Drain tomatoes well to prevent a soggy filling.
  • Swap ground turkey for beef for a lighter version.
  • Add a dash of smoked paprika for depth.

Storage, Freezing, and Reheating Tips

Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (covered) for 20 minutes or until warmed through. For freezing, assemble the casserole (unbaked), wrap tightly, and freeze for up to 3 months. Bake from frozen, adding 15–20 minutes to the cooking time.

People Also Ask: Ground Beef Jiffy Cornbread Casserole

Ground Beef Jiffy Cornbread Casserole
Fig.2 – Ground Beef Jiffy Cornbread Casserole

How do you make a ground beef Jiffy cornbread casserole?

Brown seasoned ground beef and onions, layer with corn, tomatoes, and cheese, then top with Jiffy-based cornbread batter. Bake until golden (35–40 minutes). The cornbread mix is combined with milk, eggs, and sour cream for a richer, moister texture than standard cornbread.

What other ingredients are typically in this casserole?

Beyond ground beef and Jiffy mix, common additions include black beans, bell peppers, or green chilies for texture. Cheese (cheddar or Monterey Jack) is essential, while spices like cumin and chili powder lend Southwestern flair. Frozen corn adds sweetness, balancing the savory elements.

Can I use a different brand of cornbread mix?

Yes, but adjustments may be needed. Jiffy mix is sweeter and finer than most brands. If substituting, add 1 tablespoon of sugar per 8.5-ounce mix and reduce milk slightly (use ¾ cup instead of 1 cup) to maintain batter thickness. Taste tests confirm Jiffy delivers the best flavor balance for this comfort food classic.

Is this a comfort food meal?

Absolutely! The Ground Beef Jiffy Cornbread Casserole epitomizes comfort food with its hearty beef base, melted cheese, and buttery cornbread topping. It’s filling, nostalgic, and versatile—ideal for chilly evenings, family reunions, or whenever you crave a no-fuss, satisfying meal.

Final Thoughts

This Ground Beef Jiffy Cornbread Casserole isn’t just dinner—it’s a hug on a plate. Simple enough for weeknights yet special enough for gatherings, it checks all the boxes for flavor, ease, and crowd appeal. Share your creations with us using #CrystalRecipes, and don’t forget to pin this recipe for your next comfort food craving!

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Ground Beef Jiffy Cornbread Casserole

Ground Beef Jiffy Cornbread Casserole

  • Author: Crystal
  • Total Time: 50
  • Yield: 6 servings 1x

Description

This hearty Ground Beef Jiffy Cornbread Casserole combines savory seasoned beef with sweet cornbread topping for the ultimate comfort food. Perfect for busy weeknights, this family-friendly recipe delivers cozy flavors that will have everyone asking for seconds. Ready in under an hour with simple pantry ingredients!

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound ground beef
  • 1 large onion, diced
  • 2 cups frozen corn
  • 1 tablespoon chili powder
  • 2 teaspoons ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon garlic salt
  • ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper
  • 2 boxes (8.5 ounces each) corn muffin mix
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 cup whole milk
  • ½ cup sour cream
  • 2 tablespoons butter, melted
  • 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided
  • 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes, drained

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
  2. Brown ground beef and onion in skillet over medium heat until cooked through. Drain excess fat.
  3. Stir in corn, chili powder, cumin, garlic salt, pepper, and drained tomatoes. Cook for 3 minutes then spread mixture in prepared baking dish.
  4. In medium bowl, whisk together corn muffin mix, eggs, milk, sour cream, and melted butter until smooth. Fold in 1 cup of shredded cheese.
  5. Pour cornbread batter evenly over beef mixture. Bake for 25 minutes.
  6. Sprinkle remaining cheese on top and bake for additional 5 minutes. Let rest 10 minutes before serving.

Notes

Tips: For extra kick, add ½ teaspoon smoked paprika. Fresh corn can substitute frozen. Storage: Refrigerate leftovers up to 4 days. Substitutions: Ground turkey works instead of beef. Monterey Jack can replace cheddar.

  • Prep Time: 20
  • Cook Time: 30
  • Category: B
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 slice
  • Calories: 520
  • Sugar: 8
  • Sodium: 780
  • Fat: 25
  • Saturated Fat: 10
  • Unsaturated Fat: 0
  • Trans Fat: 0
  • Carbohydrates: 45
  • Fiber: 4
  • Protein: 28
  • Cholesterol: 115

Keywords: Ground Beef, Casserole, Cornbread, Comfort Food, Easy Dinner