This Cornbread Taco Bake is a fun twist on tacos! It features a tasty layer of seasoned ground beef, beans, and melty cheese, all topped with fluffy cornbread. Yum!
I love how easy it is to whip up—just mix everything and pop it in the oven! Plus, it’s a hit with my family, who never say no to tacos. Trust me, it’s a crowd-pleaser!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cornbread Mix: An 8.5-ounce package is perfect here for quick prep! If you can’t find cornbread mix, try using a homemade version with flour, cornmeal, baking powder, and sugar.
Ground Beef or Turkey: I usually pick ground beef for flavor, but ground turkey is a leaner option. You could also use shredded chicken or even a meat alternative if you want a vegetarian dish.
Taco Seasoning: A packet is super convenient, but if you don’t have any, mix cumin, chili powder, garlic powder, and paprika for a homemade blend. This way, you can adjust to your taste!
Beans & Corn: Black beans add protein and fiber. If you’re out, use pinto beans or kidney beans instead. For corn, frozen corn can also work lovely if you don’t have canned on hand.
Salsa: This adds great flavor! I prefer mild salsa for my kids, but feel free to use medium or even hot salsa if you like a kick. You can also try mixing fresh diced tomatoes with jalapeños for a fresh twist.
How Do I Achieve the Perfect Cornbread Layer?
The cornbread should be soft yet sturdy enough to hold up the taco filling. Mixing it gently is key! Too much stirring can make it tough.
- Preheat your oven while you prepare the ingredients; this sets you up for success.
- Mix the cornbread, egg, and milk just until combined. Small lumps are okay; avoid overmixing!
- Spread the mixture evenly in the baking dish. It doesn’t need to be perfect, just make sure it covers the bottom.
Remember to watch for browning at the edges during baking! It’s a sign that your cornbread is cooking nicely.
How to Make Cornbread Taco Bake
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Cornbread Base:
- 1 package (8.5 ounces) cornbread mix
- 1 large egg
- 1/3 cup milk
For the Taco Filling:
- 1 pound ground beef (or turkey)
- 1 packet taco seasoning
- 1 can (15 ounces) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (15 ounces) corn, drained
- 1 cup salsa
For the Toppings:
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 cup shredded lettuce (for topping)
- 1 medium tomato, diced (for topping)
- 1/2 cup black olives, sliced (for topping)
- Fresh cilantro (optional, for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Cornbread Taco Bake will take about 15 minutes of prep time and around 25-30 minutes for baking. So, in total, you’re looking at around 45 minutes before you can dig into this tasty dish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures your Cornbread Taco Bake cooks evenly and comes out delicious!
2. Prepare the Cornbread Mixture:
In a mixing bowl, combine the cornbread mix, egg, and milk. Stir everything together until just combined. You don’t want to over mix it! Set this bowl aside while you work on the filling.
3. Cook the Meat:
In a skillet over medium heat, add your ground beef or turkey. Cook it until it’s fully browned, and then drain any excess fat. This will help keep your bake from becoming too greasy.
4. Make the Taco Filling:
Add the taco seasoning to the cooked meat along with the black beans, corn, and salsa. Stir everything together and let it cook for an additional 5 minutes. This will let all those yummy flavors blend nicely!
5. Assemble the Bake:
Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish. Spread the cornbread mixture evenly across the bottom. Then, pour your meat mixture on top and spread it out evenly. To add a creamy layer, dollop the sour cream over the meat mixture and use a spatula to spread it gently.
6. Add Cheese and Bake:
Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top of everything. Now it’s time to pop your dish into the preheated oven! Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the cornbread is cooked through.
7. Cool and Top:
When it’s baked to perfection, remove it from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. This will make serving easier! Top your Cornbread Taco Bake with shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, sliced black olives, and a sprinkle of fresh cilantro if you like.
8. Slice and Serve:
Cut your Cornbread Taco Bake into squares, serve warm, and enjoy! This dish is hearty and packed with flavors—perfect for family dinner or for feeding a crowd!
Can I Use a Different Meat or Meat Alternative?
Absolutely! If you prefer, you can substitute ground beef with ground turkey, chicken, or even a plant-based meat alternative for a vegetarian option. Just make sure to adjust cooking times slightly if using a different type of meat to ensure it’s fully cooked.
Can I Make This Dish Gluten-Free?
Yes! Look for a gluten-free cornbread mix and check that your taco seasoning is also gluten-free. Most surplus ingredients like beans and salsa are naturally gluten-free, but always double-check labels to be sure!
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can reheat portions in the microwave or oven until warmed through. If you want to freeze it, cut into squares and wrap tightly before putting in the freezer for up to a month.
Can I Add More Vegetables?
Definitely! Feel free to sneak in additional veggies like bell peppers, chopped onions, or even spinach into the meat mixture. Just sauté them alongside the meat at the beginning for a nutritious boost!
