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A hearty and comforting casserole, Picadillo Cornbread Casserole combines savory, spiced ground beef picadillo with a golden, slightly sweet cornbread topping. This dish is easy to make, packed with bold flavors, and perfect for a family dinner or potluck.

Origin of Picadillo Cornbread Casserole

Picadillo is a classic Latin American and Spanish dish made with ground beef, tomatoes, olives, and warm spices. This version transforms it into a baked casserole, topped with moist, fluffy cornbread, giving it a sweet and savory contrast that makes every bite delicious.

What I Love About This Recipe

• The spiced beef filling is rich and flavorful.
• The cornbread topping adds a perfect balance of sweetness and texture.
• It’s one-pan, easy to make, and perfect for meal prep.

Also Read : Greek Couscous Salad

Picadillo Cornbread Casserole

Recipe by RecipeWikkiCourse: Recipes

Servings

10

servings

Prep time

35

minutes

Cooking time

55

minutes

Calories

520

kcal

Ingredients

• 1 lb ground beef

• 1 small onion, diced

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 bell pepper, diced

• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes

• ½ cup tomato sauce

• ½ cup green olives, sliced

• 1 tbsp capers (optional, for extra briny flavor)

• 1 tsp cumin

• 1 tsp smoked paprika

• ½ tsp chili powder

• ½ tsp salt

• ¼ tsp black pepper

• ½ tsp dried oregano

• ½ cup beef broth

Directions

• In a skillet over medium heat, cook ground beef until browned.
• Add onion, garlic, and bell pepper; sauté for 3-4 minutes until softened.
• Stir in diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, olives, capers, and spices.
• Pour in beef broth, simmer for 10 minutes until thickened.
• In a bowl, whisk together cornmeal, flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
• Add milk, egg, and melted butter, mix until combined.
• Stir in cheese (if using).
• Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
• Spread the picadillo mixture evenly in a greased baking dish.
• Pour the cornbread batter over the top, spreading it gently.
• Bake:
• Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until cornbread is golden brown and set.
• Serve:
• Let the casserole cool for 5 minutes, then scoop and serve warm.

Notes

• For a spicy kick: Add ½ tsp cayenne pepper or diced jalapeños to the beef.
• Make it cheesy: Sprinkle extra shredded cheese on top of the cornbread before baking.
• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.