This hearty Cornbread Taco Bake combines spicy ground meat, zesty taco seasoning, and sweet cornbread for a fun twist on taco night. It’s topped with melted cheese that makes it extra delicious!
What I love about this dish is how quick it is to whip up. Just mix, layer, and bake! It’s perfect for busy weeknights or when friends drop by. Who doesn’t love tacos in a cozy, cornbready form? 🌮💖
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cornbread Mix: This is the base of your dish, providing a sweet, hearty layer. You can find gluten-free cornbread mixes if needed. Alternatively, you can make your own from scratch using cornmeal, flour, baking powder, sugar, and milk.
Ground Beef or Turkey: I often use ground turkey for a lighter option, but beef brings a rich flavor. You can swap this with ground chicken, pork, or even a plant-based meat substitute if you prefer a vegetarian version.
Taco Seasoning: The taco seasoning is essential for flavor. If you want to keep things clean, mix your own using cumin, chili powder, garlic powder, and onion powder. This way, you can adjust the spice level to your taste!
Black Beans: These add protein and fiber. If you don’t have black beans, kidney beans or pinto beans will work just fine. For a different texture, consider using a mix of beans.
Salsa: I recommend using a mild salsa if kids are eating. For those who love heat, a spicy salsa or even pico de gallo can add a fresh twist. If you don’t have salsa, diced tomatoes with some added spices can work in a pinch!
How Do I Ensure My Cornbread Layer Stays Fluffy?
Getting the cornbread perfect is crucial. You want it fluffy and not dense! Be sure to mix the cornbread batter gently—just until combined. Overmixing can lead to a heavy texture.
- Follow the package instructions closely for the cornbread mix. Don’t skip the milk or egg!
- Pre-baking the cornbread for about 15 minutes gives it a nice foundation. It should be firm on top but not fully cooked through.
- Let it cool slightly before adding the meat mixture. This prevents it from getting soggy.
How to Make Cornbread Taco Bake?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Cornbread Base:
- 1 package (8.5 oz) cornbread mix
- 1 egg
- 1/3 cup milk
For The Taco Filling:
- 1 pound ground beef or turkey
- 1 taco seasoning packet
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (15 oz) corn, drained
- 1 cup salsa
For Topping:
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 cup shredded lettuce
- 1 cup diced tomatoes
- 1/2 cup sliced black olives
- Fresh cilantro (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Cornbread Taco Bake takes about 15 minutes to prepare and around 35-40 minutes to cook. You’ll first whip up the cornbread base, cook the taco filling, and then bake everything together until it’s cheese-tastic and warm. Perfect for a cozy meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Cornbread Base:
Start off by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a large mixing bowl, combine the cornbread mix, egg, and milk. Stir everything together until just combined—don’t overmix! Next, pour this lovely mixture into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish, spreading it evenly across the bottom. It’s going to be the perfect base for your taco bake!
2. Bake the Cornbread:
Pop the baking dish into the oven and bake the cornbread for about 15 minutes, or until just set—this means it should look firm but not overdone. Once it’s done, take it out and let it cool for a few minutes while you prepare the taco filling.
3. Cook the Taco Filling:
In a skillet set over medium heat, cook the ground beef or turkey until it’s browned and crispy. Make sure to drain any excess fat for a healthier dish. Once cooked, add in the taco seasoning along with the black beans, corn, and salsa. Stir it all together and let it cook for another 5 minutes so those flavors can mingle nicely.
4. Assemble the Bake:
Take your meat mixture and spread it evenly over the baked cornbread layer in the dish. In a separate bowl, mix the sour cream with half of the shredded cheddar cheese until well combined. Spread that creamy mixture over the meat layer—this is where the magic happens!
5. Top and Bake Again:
Sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese on top of everything. Return the baking dish to the oven and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, until the cheese is all melted and bubbly. Your kitchen is about to smell amazing!
6. Finishing Touches:
Once it’s out of the oven, let it cool for a few minutes so it’s easier to serve. Now, it’s time to add those fresh toppings: sprinkle shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, and sliced black olives on top. For a little extra flair, garnish with fresh cilantro if you like.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Cut into squares and serve warm. This Cornbread Taco Bake is perfect for family dinners or gatherings with friends. Enjoy!
Can I Use Ground Chicken or Pork Instead of Beef or Turkey?
Absolutely! Ground chicken or pork can be great alternatives. Just be sure to cook them until they’re nicely browned and fully cooked, similar to beef or turkey. Adjust your seasoning as necessary, as chicken can be milder in flavor.
What If I Don’t Have Cornbread Mix?
No worries! You can easily make homemade cornbread batter by mixing 1 cup cornmeal, 1 cup flour, 1 tablespoon baking powder, 1/4 cup sugar, and a pinch of salt. Then add in 1 egg and 1 cup of milk to get a similar consistency!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through. You might want to add a splash of salsa to keep it moist when reheating!
Can I Make This Dish Vegetarian?
Yes! Simply substitute the meat with a mixture of sautéed vegetables or extra beans for protein. You can also use a meat alternative like lentils, tempeh, or a meat substitute product to keep the dish hearty and delicious!
