Mexican Vegetarian Cheese Jiffy Corn Bread Casserole You’ll Love

Get ready to spice up your kitchen with a Mexican vegetarian cheese Jiffy corn bread casserole that’s bursting with flavor! This dish blends the comforting, crumbly goodness of Jiffy cornbread with vibrant Mexican ingredients like green chiles, corn, and melty cheese. Perfect for weeknight dinners or potlucks, it’s a crowd-pleaser that’s easy to whip up. In this article, I’ll share my personal story behind this recipe, a step-by-step guide, serving ideas, and tips to make it your own. Plus, find answers to common questions and a handy recipe card to nail this Mexican cornbread casserole every time.

Mexican Vegetarian Cheese Jiffy Corn bread Casserole: A Southern Twist

Growing up in Tennessee, Sunday dinners at my grandmother’s table were sacred. Her cornbread was the star, golden and warm, bringing everyone together. Years later, while traveling through the Southwest, I tasted a Mexican cornbread casserole that sparked an idea. I wanted to recreate that magic with a vegetarian twist, using Jiffy mix for its familiar comfort. Back at Southern Roots, my Nashville restaurant, I crafted this Mexican vegetarian cheese Jiffy corn bread casserole, blending smoky spices, creamy cheese, and Jiffy’s sweet cornbread. It’s now a menu favorite, connecting people just like those Sunday dinners did. This Mexican cornbread casserole is perfect for cozy nights or festive gatherings.

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Mexican Vegetarian Cheese Jiffy Corn Bread Casserole You’ll Love

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A cheesy, spicy Mexican vegetarian cheese Jiffy cornbread casserole, perfect for dinners or potlucks.

  • Author: Myra L. Dennis
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 40 minutes
  • Total Time: 55 minutes
  • Yield: 12 servings
  • Category: Side Dish, Main Dish
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: Mexican, Southern
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

Scale

1 box vegetarian Jiffy cornbread mix

1 can (14.75 oz) cream-style corn

1 can (15 oz) whole kernel corn, drained

1 cup sour cream

1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted

2 large eggs

1 can (4 oz) diced green chiles

1 tsp smoked paprika

1/2 tsp cumin

2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided

2 tbsp fresh cilantro, chopped (optional)

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.

2. In a large bowl, mix Jiffy cornbread mix, cream-style corn, whole kernel corn, sour cream, melted butter, and eggs until smooth.

3. Stir in green chiles, smoked paprika, cumin, and 1 cup cheddar cheese.

4. Pour batter into the prepared dish and spread evenly.

5. Sprinkle remaining 1 cup cheddar cheese on top.

6. Bake for 35–40 minutes until golden and a toothpick comes out clean.

7. Let cool for 10 minutes, garnish with cilantro if desired, and serve warm.

Notes

For extra heat, add diced jalapeños.

Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 4 days or freeze for 2 months.

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Why I Love This Casserole

This Mexican vegetarian cheese Jiffy corn bread casserole is a game-changer. The Jiffy mix keeps things simple, while green chiles and cheddar add bold flavor. It’s versatile – serve it as a main dish or a side. Plus, it’s meat-free, making it ideal for vegetarians or anyone craving lighter comfort food. I remember serving this at a local festival, and folks couldn’t stop raving about the cheesy, slightly spicy kick. It’s food that sparks joy and conversation, just like my grandmother’s table

The Heart of Southern Comfort

At Southern Roots, we’re all about heart and soul. This Mexican cornbread casserole captures that spirit with local corn and fresh herbs. It’s not just food; it’s a memory-maker. Whether you’re a beginner or a pro, this dish is forgiving and fun to make. Pair it with a fresh salad for a complete meal, or try my Pink Salt Trick For Weight Loss for a true Southern vibe

How to Make Mexican Cornbread Casserole with Jiffy

Crafting a Mexican vegetarian cheese Jiffy corn bread casserole is a breeze, and the results are downright delicious. At Southern Roots, we keep things simple yet flavorful, using fresh, local ingredients to bring this dish to life. The Jiffy mix is the secret to that classic cornbread texture, while Mexican-inspired additions like green chiles and corn kernels add a zesty twist. This section walks you through the key ingredients and preparation steps to nail this Mexican cornbread casserole every time. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just craving comfort, this recipe delivers. Want more easy dishes? Try my Heart Shaped Cake or Butter Bean Lasagna

Gathering Your Ingredients

Start with a box of vegetarian Jiffy cornbread mix – it’s quick and reliable. You’ll also need cream-style corn, whole kernel corn, and diced green chiles for that Mexican flair. Sour cream and melted butter keep the casserole moist, while shredded cheddar cheese brings the gooey goodness. For a flavor boost, toss in some smoked paprika and cumin. Fresh cilantro adds a bright finish. Using quality ingredients makes all the difference, so grab local produce if you can. This lineup creates a Mexican cornbread recipe Jiffy fans will love.

mexican cornbread casserole ingredients

Preparing the Casserole

First, preheat your oven to 350°F. Mix the Jiffy cornbread mix, eggs, sour cream, butter, and cream-style corn in a large bowl until smooth. Fold in the green chiles, whole kernel corn, half the cheese, and spices. Pour the batter into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Sprinkle the remaining cheese on top. Bake for 35–40 minutes until golden and set. The aroma will fill your kitchen with warmth. Let it cool slightly before serving to let the flavors meld.

Perfecting Your Mexican Cornbread Recipe Jiffy Style

Baking a Mexican vegetarian cheese Jiffy corn bread casserole is all about nailing the details. At Southern Roots, I’ve learned that small tweaks can transform a good dish into a great one. This section shares pro tips to ensure your casserole is golden, fluffy, and packed with flavor. From getting that perfect cheesy crust to avoiding common pitfalls, I’ve got you covered. Plus, these tricks make the process fun and stress-free. For more Southern-inspired sides, check out my buttery green beans or creamy coleslaw. 

Achieving the Perfect Texture

For a Mexican cornbread casserole that’s moist yet crumbly, mix the batter just until combined – overmixing makes it dense. Use room-temperature eggs and sour cream for a smoother blend. If you want extra fluffiness, add a pinch of baking powder to the Jiffy mix. Bake at 350°F, and check doneness with a toothpick; it should come out clean. Let the casserole rest for 10 minutes after baking to set the texture. This ensures every bite is soft, cheesy, and delicious, just like the ones I serve at my restaurant.

mexican cornbread casserole batter pour

Boosting Flavor with Add-Ins

Customize your Mexican vegetarian cheese Jiffy corn bread casserole with bold add-ins. Try diced jalapeños for heat or sweet bell peppers for color. A handful of black beans adds heartiness, while fresh corn kernels boost sweetness. Sprinkle extra cheese or crushed tortilla chips on top for a crunchy finish. At Southern Roots, I sometimes mix in a dash of hot sauce for a spicy kick. Experiment to make it your own, but keep the balance of flavors – too many add-ins can overpower the classic Jiffy cornbread base.

Serving and Storing Your Mexican Cornbread Casserole

Nothing beats the moment you pull a bubbling Mexican vegetarian cheese Jiffy corn bread casserole from the oven. Its golden crust and cheesy aroma bring everyone to the table. At Southern Roots, we serve this dish with love, and I’m excited to share how to present and preserve it. This section covers creative serving ideas and storage tips to keep your casserole fresh. Whether it’s a family dinner or a festive potluck, this dish shines. For more crowd-pleasers, try my pecan pie or fluffy biscuits. 

Serving Suggestions for Maximum Flavor

Slice your Mexican vegetarian cheese Jiffy corn bread casserole into squares and serve warm for the best experience. Pair it with a fresh avocado salad or tangy salsa to complement the cheesy, spicy notes. A dollop of sour cream or guacamole adds creaminess. For a full Southern-Mexican fusion meal, serve alongside my spicy black bean soup or a crisp Tomate De Arbol Secrets. Garnish with fresh cilantro or green onions for a pop of color. This casserole is perfect for potlucks or as a vegetarian main dish that everyone loves.

mexican cornbread casserole serving

Storing and Reheating Tips

To keep your Mexican vegetarian cheese Jiffy corn bread casserole fresh, cover leftovers tightly with foil or store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave for 1–2 minutes or warm the whole dish in a 325°F oven for 15 minutes. For longer storage, freeze it in portions for up to two months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating. These tips ensure your casserole stays as tasty as the day you baked it, ready to spark joy at any meal.

Conclusion

This Mexican vegetarian cheese Jiffy corn bread casserole brings warmth and joy to any table, just like my grandmother’s Sunday dinners. It’s easy, versatile, and packed with cheesy, spicy goodness. Whether you’re serving it at a potluck or a cozy family meal, this dish creates memories. Use fresh ingredients, experiment with add-ins, and pair it with your favorite sides. For more Southern comfort, visit snazzyfood.com and try recipes like Dubai Chocolate Strawberries . Share this dish with loved ones and savor the connection.

FAQs

What’s the difference between vegetarian and regular Jiffy cornbread mix?

Vegetarian Jiffy cornbread mix uses vegetable shortening instead of lard, making it suitable for vegetarians. The taste and texture remain nearly identical, so you get that classic Jiffy flavor without animal fat. Always check the box for the vegetarian label to be sure.

What temperature do you cook a corn casserole at?

Bake your Mexican vegetarian cheese Jiffy corn bread casserole at 350°F. This temperature ensures even cooking, giving you a golden crust and a fluffy interior. Use an oven thermometer to confirm accuracy for best results.

Why does Jiffy Cornbread say vegetarian?

Jiffy labels some mixes as vegetarian to indicate they’re free of animal-derived ingredients like lard. This makes the mix accessible to vegetarians while keeping the same beloved cornbread taste.

What goes with cornbread vegetarian?

Pair your Mexican cornbread casserole with fresh salads, like Guacamole, salsa, or sour cream also make great toppings.

How is vegetarian cornbread different?

Vegetarian cornbread, like Jiffy’s version, swaps lard for plant-based fats. The flavor and texture are nearly the same, but it’s vegetarian-friendly, perfect for inclusive meals.

What food goes with Mexican cornbread?

Mexican cornbread casserole shines with dishes like black bean soup, grilled veggies, or a tangy coleslaw.

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