This Cornbread Taco Bake is a fun and delicious twist on classic tacos. It’s made with tasty ground beef, beans, and plenty of cheese, all topped with sweet cornbread! Yum!
Perfect for busy nights, it’s easy to whip up and all in one dish. Plus, who doesn’t love a warm, cheesy meal? You can even customize it with your favorite toppings!
Ingredients & Substitutions
Cornbread Mix: This is a key ingredient, so using a good-quality cornbread mix is essential. If you’re feeling adventurous, homemade cornbread batter is a great alternative! Just ensure it’s the right consistency.
Ground Beef or Turkey: Ground turkey is a great substitute if you’re looking for a leaner option. You can even use plant-based meat for a vegetarian twist!
Taco Seasoning: Instead of a store-bought seasoning, you can mix your own using cumin, chili powder, garlic powder, and paprika. It adds a personal touch to the dish!
Black Beans and Corn: Canned beans and corn are convenient, but fresh or frozen versions can taste even better. Just make sure to adjust cooking times so everything cooks through.
Sour Cream: If you want a lighter version, Greek yogurt works wonderfully as a substitute. It adds creaminess and a bit of tang!
How Do I Ensure My Cornbread Bake Cooks Evenly?
To get the best results with your Cornbread Taco Bake, layering is key! Here’s how to make sure everything cooks perfectly:
- Spread the cornbread batter evenly in the greased baking dish. This ensures it rises uniformly in the oven.
- Layer the meat mixture right on top of the cornbread. This stacked method holds the flavors together beautifully.
- When baking, keep an eye on the edges; if they start browning too fast, cover your dish lightly with foil.
After baking, let it cool for a few minutes, which helps with easier slicing! Enjoy those warm, cheesy layers!
How to Make Cornbread Taco Bake
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Cornbread:
- 1 box cornbread mix (about 8.5 oz)
- 2 eggs
- 1/3 cup milk
For the Taco Filling:
- 1 lb ground beef (or turkey)
- 1 packet taco seasoning (about 1 oz)
- 1 can black beans (15 oz), drained and rinsed
- 1 can corn (15 oz), drained
- 1 can diced tomatoes with green chilies (10 oz), undrained
For the Toppings:
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup salsa
- 1/4 cup sliced black olives
- 1 cup shredded lettuce (for topping)
- 1/2 cup diced tomatoes (for topping)
- Fresh cilantro (for garnish, optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Cornbread Taco Bake takes about 15 minutes to prepare, and you’ll need to bake it for 25-30 minutes. So, in total, you’ll be looking at around 45 minutes from start to finish. That’s not too long for a hearty and delicious meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This will ensure that your Cornbread Taco Bake bakes evenly and comes out perfectly golden and bubbly!
2. Prepare the Cornbread Batter:
In a mixing bowl, combine the cornbread mix, eggs, and milk. Stir everything together until it’s just combined; it’s okay if there are a few lumps. Set this mixture aside for now while you work on the filling.
3. Cook the Meat Filling:
Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add the ground beef (or turkey). Brown the meat, stirring until it’s fully cooked. If there’s any excess fat, drain it off. Then, sprinkle in the taco seasoning and stir in the black beans, corn, and undrained diced tomatoes with green chilies. Cook everything together for a few more minutes until it’s hot and bubbly.
4. Assemble the Bake:
Take a greased baking dish and spread the cornbread batter evenly across the bottom. Next, layer the prepared meat mixture on top of the cornbread. In a small bowl, mix together the sour cream and salsa, then spread this creamy mixture over the meat layer. Finally, sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese on top.
5. Bake and Serve:
Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and golden brown. Once done, remove it from the oven and let it cool slightly. Top with shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, and sliced black olives. If you like, garnish with fresh cilantro for an extra touch.
Serve warm and enjoy your delicious Cornbread Taco Bake with family and friends!
Can I Substitute Ground Beef with Another Protein?
Absolutely! Ground turkey, chicken, or even a plant-based crumbles (like Beyond Meat) work great as substitutes. Just make sure to cook them thoroughly and drain any excess fat or moisture before adding the taco seasoning and other ingredients.
Is There a Gluten-Free Option for the Cornbread Mix?
Yes, there are gluten-free cornbread mixes available that can be easily swapped in for regular cornbread mix. Just check the packaging for cooking instructions, as some brands may require different liquid measurements or baking times.
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
You can! Prepare the meat mixture and cornbread batter ahead of time, then assemble in the baking dish and cover it tightly with plastic wrap. Refrigerate for up to 24 hours and bake when ready to enjoy. You might need to increase the baking time by a few minutes if baking from cold.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place in the microwave or warm it up in the oven until heated through. If the cornbread appears dry, you can add a splash of broth before reheating!
