This Cornbread Taco Bake is a fun, tasty dish that combines cheesy goodness with a crunchy cornbread topping. It’s a delight for taco lovers and a hit for family dinners!
I love how easy it is to throw together and bake. Plus, it fills the kitchen with a warm, inviting smell. Don’t forget to add some toppings like sour cream or salsa—they’re a must!
Ingredients & Substitutions
Cornbread mix: This is the base of your dish. If you want to make it from scratch, mix cornmeal, flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. Alternatively, gluten-free cornbread mixes work great too!
Ground beef or turkey: Both are delicious here. You can use ground chicken, or for a meatless option, try black beans or lentils for more protein.
Taco seasoning: If you don’t have a packet, mix chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, and paprika for a homemade version. You can control the spice level this way!
Black beans: Great source of fiber! If you’re not a fan, you can switch to pinto beans or use more corn instead.
Salsa: Your choice of heat level matters! Mild salsa is great for kids. If you’re out of salsa, try diced tomatoes with a bit of hot sauce for flavor.
Shredded cheese: Cheddar is classic, but you might love pepper jack for an extra kick! For a dairy-free option, look for plant-based cheese alternatives.
How Do I Make the Cornbread Base Perfectly?
Getting your cornbread right is crucial for this dish’s texture. Make sure not to overmix the batter—just stir until combined to keep it fluffy.
- Preheat your oven well. A hot oven helps the cornbread rise nicely.
- Greas the baking dish thoroughly to avoid sticking. I find using cooking spray works best!
- Keep an eye on baking time. If a toothpick comes out clean after 15 minutes, it’s ready!
How to Make Cornbread Taco Bake
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Cornbread Base:
- 1 package (8.5 oz) cornbread mix
- 1 large egg
- 1/3 cup milk
For the Taco Filling:
- 1 lb ground beef or turkey
- 1 packet (1 oz) taco seasoning
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup corn (fresh, canned, or frozen)
- 1 cup salsa
For the Toppings:
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or Mexican blend)
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 cup shredded lettuce
- 1 medium tomato, diced
- 1/2 cup sliced black olives
- Optional garnishes: cilantro, extra cheese, tortilla chips
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Cornbread Taco Bake takes about 15 minutes to prep and 30-35 minutes to bake. So, you’ll be enjoying this delicious dish in about 50 minutes! Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
First things first, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This will ensure it’s nice and warm when you’re ready to bake your cornbread base.
2. Make the Cornbread Base:
In a mixing bowl, combine the cornbread mix, egg, and milk. Stir everything together until just mixed—you don’t want to overdo it! Pour this mixture into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
3. Bake the Cornbread:
Pop the baking dish into your preheated oven and bake for about 15 minutes. It’s ready when it’s set and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Delicious!
4. Cook the Meat Filling:
While the cornbread is baking, heat a skillet over medium heat. Add your ground beef or turkey and cook until it’s browned, stirring occasionally. Be sure to drain any excess fat for a healthier meal.
5. Add Taco Flavors:
Now it’s time for the flavor! Sprinkle in the taco seasoning, black beans, corn, and salsa. Stir everything well and let it cook for another 5 minutes until heated through. Your kitchen will smell amazing!
6. Layer the Taco Mixture:
Take the cornbread out of the oven (careful, it’s hot!) and layer the taco mixture evenly over the top. Yum!
7. Add the Sour Cream:
Spread the sour cream over the taco filling. Get it nice and even so every bite is creamy and delicious!
8. Top with Cheese and Bake:
Sprinkle that shredded cheese all over the top. This is where the magic happens! Put the dish back in the oven and bake for another 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
9. Cool and Garnish:
Once it’s done, take it out and let it cool for a few minutes. Then, top it off with shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, and sliced black olives for that fresh crunch.
10. Serve and Enjoy!
Serve your Cornbread Taco Bake warm, garnished with fresh cilantro and any other toppings you like. Enjoy your tasty creation!
Can I Use Ground Chicken or Pork Instead of Beef or Turkey?
Absolutely! You can substitute ground chicken or pork for the beef or turkey. Just make sure to cook it thoroughly until no longer pink, and follow the same steps for seasoning and layering. The flavors will work beautifully with the taco seasoning!
What Can I Use Instead of Cornbread Mix?
If you don’t have cornbread mix, you can create a homemade version! Combine 1 cup of all-purpose flour, 1 cup of cornmeal, 4 teaspoons of baking powder, and a pinch of salt. Mix in the egg and milk as directed in the original recipe.
How Can I Make This Dish Vegetarian?
To make a vegetarian version, simply omit the meat and replace it with an extra can of black beans or some cooked lentils. Add more veggies too, like bell peppers or zucchini, to keep it hearty and flavorful!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions if you’re in a hurry!
