When it comes to versatile ingredients, few can compare to ground beef and corn. These two staples of many cuisines offer endless possibilities for creative dishes that are not only delicious but also easy to make. Whether you’re in the mood for something classic and comforting or bold and spicy, there’s a recipe out there that combines the rich flavor of ground beef with the sweet, crunchy texture of corn.
In this article, we’ll explore 16 mouthwatering recipes that put these two ingredients together in unique and exciting ways. From tacos to casseroles, soups to salads, and everything in between, you’re sure to find a recipe that becomes a new favorite. So let’s get started!
Ground Beef and Corn Tacos
Get ready to spice up your taco game with this flavorful and easy-to-make recipe! This dish combines the richness of ground beef with the sweetness of corn, all wrapped up in a crispy taco shell.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 cup frozen corn kernels, thawed
– 1/2 cup chopped onion
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1 packet taco seasoning
– 8-10 taco shells
– Shredded cheese, optional
– Salsa, optional
Instructions:
1. In a large skillet, cook ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
2. Add chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet and cook until the onion is translucent.
3. Stir in taco seasoning and cook according to package instructions.
4. Add thawed corn kernels to the skillet and stir to combine.
5. Warm taco shells according to package instructions.
6. Assemble tacos by spooning beef and corn mixture into shells, followed by shredded cheese and a dollop of salsa (if using).
7. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Corn and Ground Beef Casserole
A hearty and comforting casserole filled with ground beef, corn, and pasta is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend lunch.
Corn and Ground Beef Casserole Recipe
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 cup frozen corn kernels
– 1 cup uncooked macaroni
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. Cook the macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
4. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet and cook until the onion is translucent.
5. Stir in the frozen corn kernels and cook until thawed.
6. Combine the cooked macaroni, ground beef mixture, and shredded cheese in a 9×13 inch baking dish.
7. Pour in the milk and add salt and pepper to taste.
8. Sprinkle the dried oregano on top of the casserole.
9. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Spicy Ground Beef and Corn Chili
This hearty chili recipe combines the comfort of ground beef with the sweetness of corn, all wrapped up in a spicy kick. Perfect for a cozy night in or a quick lunch at work.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 large onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 can (15.25 oz) red kidney beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 cup frozen corn kernels
– 1 tsp chili powder
– 1/2 tsp ground cumin
– 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup beef broth
Instructions:
1. Brown the ground beef in a large pot over medium-high heat, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
2. Add the onion, garlic, chili powder, cumin, and cayenne pepper. Cook until the onion is translucent.
3. Stir in the diced tomatoes, red kidney beans, corn kernels, and beef broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot over rice, noodles, or with some crusty bread.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Ground Beef Cornbread Pie
A hearty and comforting twist on traditional cornbread, this Ground Beef Cornbread Pie combines the flavors of savory ground beef with sweet cornbread for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 medium onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup cornbread mix
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup grated cheddar cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Cook ground beef in a large skillet over medium-high heat, breaking up with spoon, until browned, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Add chopped onion and minced garlic; cook until onion is translucent.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together cornbread mix, milk, egg, and salt and pepper to taste.
5. Pour cooked ground beef mixture into a 9×13-inch baking dish. Top with cornbread batter, spreading evenly.
6. Sprinkle grated cheddar cheese on top of cornbread batter.
7. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until cornbread is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Cheesy Ground Beef and Corn Quesadillas
A twist on the classic quesadilla, this recipe combines ground beef, corn, cheese, and spices for a flavorful and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 cup frozen corn kernels, thawed
– 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped onion
– 1 minced garlic clove
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 large tortillas
– Cooking spray or oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Cook the ground beef, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks, until browned and fully cooked (about 5 minutes).
3. Add the corn, onion, garlic, cumin, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Stir to combine and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
4. In a separate pan or griddle, warm tortillas over medium heat.
5. Place about 1/4 cup of the beef-corn mixture onto half of each tortilla, followed by shredded cheese.
6. Fold the tortillas in half to enclose the filling. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes on each side, or until the cheese is melted and the tortillas are crispy.
7. Serve hot with your favorite toppings.
Cooking Time: About 15-20 minutes.
Ground Beef and Corn Stuffed Peppers
A hearty and flavorful twist on traditional stuffed peppers, this recipe combines juicy ground beef with sweet corn and savory spices for a satisfying dinner.
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers, any color
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 cup frozen corn kernels, thawed
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cut the tops off the peppers and remove seeds and membranes. Place them in a baking dish.
3. In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
4. Add the chopped onion, minced garlic, paprika, salt, and pepper to the skillet and cook until the onion is translucent.
5. Stir in the thawed corn kernels and cook for 1-2 minutes.
6. Stuff each pepper with the ground beef mixture and top with shredded cheddar cheese (if using).
7. Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes.
8. Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the peppers are tender.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Ground Beef Corn Soup
A comforting and flavorful soup that’s perfect for a chilly evening. This recipe combines the richness of ground beef with the sweetness of corn and the creaminess of milk.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup frozen corn kernels
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1/2 cup milk
– 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook the ground beef in a large pot over medium-high heat, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks, until browned.
2. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic; cook until the onion is translucent.
3. Stir in the corn kernels, chicken broth, milk, flour, paprika, salt, and pepper.
4. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let cook for 15-20 minutes or until the soup has thickened slightly.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped scallions or chives if desired.
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Ground Beef and Corn Empanadas
A flavorful twist on traditional empanadas, these savory pastries combine ground beef and corn with a hint of spices and herbs.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of empanada dough (homemade or store-bought)
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 cup frozen corn kernels, thawed
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 egg, beaten (for brushing pastry)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large skillet, cook ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
3. Add onion, garlic, cumin, salt, and pepper to the skillet and cook until the onion is translucent.
4. Stir in corn kernels and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
5. On a lightly floured surface, roll out empanada dough to a thickness of about 1/8 inch.
6. Spoon about 1 tablespoon of the ground beef mixture onto one half of the dough circle, leaving a 1/2-inch border around the edges.
7. Fold the other half of the dough over the filling and press edges together with a fork to seal.
8. Brush tops with beaten egg for a golden glaze.
9. Place empanadas on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Ground Beef Corn Hash
A hearty, comforting dish that combines the flavors of ground beef, corn, and potatoes. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or brunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup frozen corn kernels, thawed
– 1 large potato, peeled and diced
– 1 tsp chili powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, cook ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking up into small pieces as it cooks.
3. Add onion and garlic to the skillet; cook until the onion is translucent.
4. Stir in corn kernels, chili powder, salt, and pepper.
5. In a separate bowl, combine diced potato and 1 tablespoon water. Microwave for 2-3 minutes, or until slightly tender.
6. Add cooked potatoes to the skillet with ground beef mixture. Toss to combine.
7. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish. Top with additional corn kernels if desired.
8. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the potatoes are golden brown and the flavors have melded together.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Ground Beef and Corn Stir Fry
A flavorful and nutritious stir-fry that’s ready in just a few minutes, perfect for a weeknight dinner or a quick lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 2 cups mixed bell peppers (any color), sliced
– 1 cup frozen corn kernels
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 teaspoon soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped green onions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the bell peppers and garlic; cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until tender.
4. Stir in the corn kernels, soy sauce, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1 minute to combine flavors.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped green onions if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Ground Beef Corn Pancakes
Start your day with a flavorful and filling breakfast by combining the savory flavors of ground beef and corn with fluffy pancakes.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 cup frozen corn kernels, thawed
– 2 cups pancake mix
– 1/4 cup milk
– 1 egg
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Butter or oil for greasing the pan
Instructions:
1. Preheat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat.
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, corn kernels, pancake mix, milk, and egg. Mix until just combined (do not overmix).
3. Drop spoonfuls of the mixture onto the preheated pan, about 1/4 cup each.
4. Cook for 2-3 minutes, until bubbles appear on surface and edges start to dry.
5. Flip pancakes and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, until golden brown.
6. Serve hot with butter or oil and a sprinkle of salt.
Cooking Time: Approximately 10-12 minutes for 8-10 pancakes.
Ground Beef and Corn Pizza
A hearty and flavorful pizza that combines the savory taste of ground beef with the sweetness of corn, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 cup frozen corn kernels, thawed
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 cup pizza dough (homemade or store-bought)
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional toppings: chopped bell peppers, sliced mushrooms, or chopped olives
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Cook ground beef in a pan over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
3. Add chopped onion and minced garlic to the pan and cook until the onion is translucent.
4. Stir in thawed corn kernels and cook for an additional 2 minutes.
5. Roll out pizza dough to desired thickness and place on a baking sheet.
6. Spread cooked ground beef mixture over the pizza dough, leaving a small border around the edges.
7. Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese over the top of the pizza.
8. Bake in preheated oven for 15-20 minutes or until crust is golden brown and cheese is melted.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Ground Beef Corn Salad
A hearty salad that combines the savory flavor of ground beef with sweet corn and crunchy vegetables, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or potluck.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 cup frozen corn kernels, thawed
– 1/2 cup chopped red bell pepper
– 1/2 cup chopped cucumber
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. Cook ground beef in a large skillet over medium-high heat until browned, breaking into small pieces as it cooks.
3. Add corn kernels, red bell pepper, cucumber, garlic, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Stir to combine.
4. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and bake for 15-20 minutes or until the vegetables are tender.
5. Stir in chopped cilantro. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Ground Beef and Corn Pasta Bake
A comforting, one-dish meal that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or weekend lunch. This recipe combines ground beef, sweet corn, and pasta in a rich tomato-based sauce, topped with melted mozzarella cheese.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 cup pasta of your choice (e.g., penne, macaroni)
– 1 cup frozen corn kernels, thawed
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, cook ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
4. Add onion and garlic to the skillet and cook until the onion is translucent.
5. Stir in corn kernels, crushed tomatoes, oregano, salt, and pepper.
6. Combine cooked pasta and tomato sauce mixture. Transfer to a 9×13 inch baking dish.
7. Top with shredded mozzarella cheese and bake for 25-30 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Ground Beef Corn Fritters
A twist on traditional fritters, these corn-filled bites pack a flavorful punch with the addition of ground beef.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 cup corn kernels (fresh or frozen)
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon paprika
– 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oil in a deep frying pan to medium-high heat.
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, corn kernels, flour, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well until just combined.
3. Using wet hands, shape the mixture into small patties, about 1/4 inch thick.
4. When oil is hot, add fritters in batches, if necessary. Fry for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown.
5. Remove from oil with a slotted spoon and drain excess oil on paper towels.
Cooking Time: 6-8 minutes (per batch)
Ground Beef and Corn Shepherd’s Pie
Ground Beef and Corn Shepherd’s Pie Recipe
A classic comfort food dish that combines ground beef, corn, and mashed potatoes for a hearty and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup frozen corn kernels
– 1 cup mashed potatoes
– 1/4 cup milk
– 2 tbsp butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. Cook ground beef in a large skillet over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
3. Add diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet and cook until the onion is translucent.
4. Stir in frozen corn kernels and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until thawed.
5. In a separate bowl, combine mashed potatoes, milk, and butter. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Transfer the ground beef mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish and top with the mashed potato mixture.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the potatoes are golden brown.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Conclusion
Get ready to spice up your meals with these mouthwatering ground beef and corn recipes! From tacos to casseroles, soups to stir-fries, we’ve got 16 delicious ideas that combine the flavors of ground beef and corn in a perfect harmony. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a show-stopping centerpiece for your next gathering, these recipes are sure to please even the pickiest eaters.
Sophia Brennan is the cook and writer behind Go Jack Rabbit Go. She spent years working in Portland’s restaurant world before bringing that same warm, unfussy approach into her home kitchen. These days, she focuses on simple, comforting recipes inspired by real life, family routines, and the rhythm of cooking without overthinking it.
