This Cornbread Taco Bake is a fun twist on taco night! It features layers of seasoned beef, beans, and melty cheese, all topped with golden, fluffy cornbread.
I love how easy this dish is to make! Just mix, layer, and bake. It’s great for busy weeknights, and leftovers are even better! Who doesn’t love a tasty taco surprise? 🌮
Ingredients & Substitutions
Cornbread mix: This is the base of the dish. If you want to make it from scratch, combine cornmeal, flour, baking powder, sugar, and salt. It’s easy and fun!
Ground beef: I usually use ground beef for its flavor, but ground turkey or chicken are great lean alternatives. You can also go for plant-based crumbles for a vegetarian choice!
Taco seasoning: You can buy pre-made taco seasoning or make your own with chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, and onion powder if you prefer control over the ingredients.
Salsa: Choose your favorite salsa for flavor. If you’re out, a diced tomato can work in a pinch, mixed with some spices for a kick.
Cheddar cheese: Sharp cheddar brings a great flavor, but you can substitute it with Monterey Jack or pepper jack for added spice. Cream cheese can also be mixed in for creaminess!
What’s the Best Way to Layer Ingredients for a Bake?
Layering ingredients is key for a great texture and flavor. Start with the cornbread mix to ensure a fluffy base. After that, the beef mixture goes on top to keep it moist. Finally, the creamy cheese mixture gives a rich finish. Just ensure even layers so every bite is consistent!
- Spread the cornbread batter evenly across the bottom of the dish.
- Carefully layer the beef mixture, making sure to cover the cornbread fully.
- Follow with the sour cream and cheese blend for a rich taste.
How to Make Cornbread Taco Bake
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Cornbread Base:
- 1 box (8.5 oz) cornbread mix
- 1/3 cup milk
- 1 large egg
For the Taco Filling:
- 1 lb ground beef (or turkey)
- 1 packet (1 oz) taco seasoning
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 cup corn (canned or frozen)
- 1 jar (16 oz) salsa
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1/4 cup green onions, chopped
- 1 cup shredded lettuce (for garnish)
- 1 cup diced tomatoes (for garnish)
- 1/2 cup sliced black olives (for garnish)
For the Toppings:
How Much Time Will You Need?
This tasty Cornbread Taco Bake takes about 15 minutes to prepare and 30-35 minutes to bake, plus a little time for cooling. It’s a quick and delicious meal that the whole family will love!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Dish:
First, set your oven to 400°F (200°C) so it warms up while you prepare your bake. Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking. This will help your delicious creation come out smoothly!
2. Make the Cornbread Base:
In a mixing bowl, pour in the cornbread mix, milk, and add the large egg. Stir everything together until just combined—don’t overmix! Once it’s ready, pour the batter into your prepared baking dish and spread it evenly across the bottom.
3. Cook the Taco Filling:
In a skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef or turkey. Once it’s cooked through, drain any excess fat. Next, add the taco seasoning, black beans, corn, and salsa to the skillet. Stir everything together and let it cook for an additional 5 minutes, stirring occasionally. This will give it a nice flavor.
4. Layer the Bake:
Now it’s time to build your layers! Spoon the beef mixture evenly over the cornbread batter in the baking dish. Then, in a separate bowl, mix the sour cream with half of the shredded cheddar cheese and the chopped green onions. Spread this creamy mixture over the beef layer.
5. Add the Cheese and Bake:
Sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese over the top of everything. Place your baking dish into the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes. Keep an eye on it; you want the cheese to be bubbly and golden brown!
6. Cool and Garnish:
After baking, carefully remove the dish from the oven and let it cool slightly. This will make it easier to cut. Before serving, add your toppings of shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, and sliced olives for a fresh crunch!
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Slice your Cornbread Taco Bake into squares and serve warm. Enjoy this delightful meal and the smiles it brings to your family’s faces!
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Ground Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great lean alternative to ground beef in this recipe. Just keep in mind that it may cook a bit faster, so watch it closely while browning to prevent it from drying out.
Can I Make This Recipe Vegetarian?
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in the microwave or in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through—around 15-20 minutes works well!
Can I Use Different Types of Cheese?
Definitely! While cheddar cheese gives great flavor, you can swap it for Monterey Jack, pepper jack, or even a Mexican cheese blend. Just keep in mind that each cheese will lend a different taste, so choose one that you like!
