Get ready to transform your dinner table with a mouthwatering dish that combines the rustic charm of cornbread with the savory richness of ground beef! These Meat and Corn Bread Squares are not just a recipe – they're a culinary adventure that will have your family and friends begging for seconds. Imagine a perfectly golden, cheesy top hiding a tender, flavorful interior that's both hearty and comforting. Whether you're looking for a quick weeknight meal or a crowd-pleasing dish for your next gathering, this recipe is about to become your new obsession!
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 50 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 8 servings
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 cup cornmeal
- 1 cup milk
- 2 eggs
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup shredded cheese
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9x13 inch baking dish thoroughly with butter or cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- In a large skillet over medium-high heat, brown the ground beef, breaking it into small crumbles. Cook until no pink remains and the meat is fully cooked, approximately 8-10 minutes. Drain excess fat and set aside.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine cornmeal, milk, eggs, baking powder, and salt. Whisk the ingredients together until a smooth batter forms with no lumps.
- Fold the cooked ground beef into the cornmeal batter, mixing thoroughly to distribute the meat evenly throughout the mixture.
- Pour the meat and cornmeal mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly with a spatula.
- Sprinkle the shredded cheese evenly across the top of the mixture, ensuring complete coverage.
- Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Remove from the oven and let the dish rest for 5-10 minutes before cutting into squares.
- Slice into 8 equal squares and serve warm as a hearty main course or side dish.
Tips
- Drain the Ground Beef Thoroughly: Make sure to drain excess fat completely to prevent a greasy texture.
- Whisk the Batter Carefully: Take time to whisk the cornmeal mixture until smooth to avoid lumpy squares.
- Don't Overcook: Keep an eye on the dish in the last 5 minutes of baking to prevent drying out.
- Let It Rest: Allowing the dish to sit for 5-10 minutes after baking helps it set and makes cutting easier.
- Cheese Variation: Experiment with different cheese types like cheddar, pepper jack, or a blend for unique flavor profiles.
- Make It Spicy: Add diced jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper to the batter for an extra kick.
- Meal Prep Friendly: These squares reheat beautifully and can be stored in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. Pro Tip: For the most even cooking and easiest serving, use a sharp knife to cut clean, perfect squares right in the baking dish.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 350kcal
Carbohydrates: 20g
Protein: 25g
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 8g
Cholesterol: 110mg
