This Cornbread Taco Bake is a fun and tasty twist on a classic dish! With layers of savory taco meat, beans, and sweet cornbread on top, it’s comfort food at its best.
You can enjoy it by itself, or add some toppings like cheese and sour cream. I love how it makes dinner easy—just one pan and everyone is happy! 😁
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cornbread Mix: This is key for the base of your bake. If you’re up for it, try making homemade cornbread using flour, cornmeal, sugar, baking powder, milk, and eggs. It adds a personal touch!
Ground Beef or Turkey: I enjoy using ground turkey for a leaner option, but you can easily swap in plant-based ground meat for a vegetarian dish!
Taco Seasoning: If you’re out of store-bought seasoning, a mix of chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, and oregano can do the trick. Adjust based on your spice preference.
Black Beans: These add fiber and texture. Canned chickpeas can be a fun alternative for a different twist while keeping it hearty.
Salsa: Choose your favorite salsa style—mild or spicy! If you don’t have any, you can use diced tomatoes with some added spices.
How Can I Make Sure the Cornbread is Perfectly Cooked?
The cornbread layer is essential, and cooking it just right matters. Here’s how to ensure it’s fluffy and delicious:
- Mix the cornbread ingredients gently; over-mixing can lead to a dense texture.
- Spread the batter evenly in the baking dish for even cooking.
- Keep an eye on it while baking; it should be golden on top and a toothpick should come out clean when inserted in the middle.
Let it cool slightly before topping with fresh ingredients. This makes it easier to serve and enhances flavor!
How to Make Cornbread Taco Bake?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Cornbread Base:
- 1 package (8.5 oz) cornbread mix
- 1/3 cup milk
- 1 egg
For the Taco Filling:
- 1 pound ground beef or turkey
- 1 packet (1 oz) taco seasoning
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup corn (fresh or canned)
- 1 cup salsa
For the Toppings:
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (divided)
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 cup shredded lettuce
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, diced
- 1/2 cup black olives, sliced
How Much Time Will You Need?
This dish takes about 15 minutes of preparation and around 30 minutes for baking. So, in total, you’ll need about 45 minutes to make this colorful and tasty Cornbread Taco Bake!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Grab a 9×13-inch baking dish and grease it lightly with cooking spray to prevent sticking. This is where all the magic will happen!
2. Prepare the Cornbread Batter:
In a medium mixing bowl, combine the cornbread mix, milk, and egg. Stir everything together until it’s nice and smooth. Once mixed, pour the batter into your prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly across the bottom. This will be the base of our taco bake.
3. Cook the Ground Meat:
In a skillet over medium heat, add your ground beef or turkey. Cook it until it’s nicely browned, breaking it apart as it cooks. Make sure to drain any excess fat to keep it nice and lean.
4. Make the Taco Filling:
Once your meat is cooked, sprinkle in the taco seasoning, then add the black beans, corn, and salsa. Stir everything together and let it cook for about 2-3 minutes. This will blend all those delicious flavors!
5. Layer the Filling:
Spoon the cooked meat mixture over the cornbread layer in your baking dish. Spread it out evenly, making sure it covers the cornbread base well.
6. Add the Sour Cream Mixture:
In a small bowl, mix the sour cream with half of the shredded cheddar cheese until well combined. Spread this mixture on top of the meat layer. It adds a lovely creaminess to our bake!
7. Cheese it Up:
Now, sprinkle the remaining shredded cheddar cheese on top of everything. This will melt beautifully during baking and create that gooey texture we love!
8. Bake:
Place your baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes. You want the cheese to be melted and bubbly and the cornbread to be cooked through. Trust me, your kitchen will smell amazing!
9. Cool and Top:
When it’s done baking, carefully remove it from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. During this time, chop up the lettuce, and dice the cherry tomatoes. These will make your bake look extra fresh!
10. Serve and Enjoy:
Top your warm Cornbread Taco Bake with the shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, and sliced black olives. Slice it up and serve warm for a delicious and hearty meal. Enjoy every bite!
Can I Use a Different Meat or Make It Vegetarian?
Absolutely! You can substitute ground beef with ground turkey, chicken, or even a plant-based meat alternative for a vegetarian option. If you prefer to go meatless, consider adding more beans or vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini for added texture and flavor!
Can I Make This with Homemade Cornbread?
Yes, you can use homemade cornbread instead of a mix! Just prepare your cornbread batter according to your favorite recipe and ensure it’s enough to cover the bottom of your baking dish. Adjust baking time if necessary, as homemade cornbread may take longer to cook.
How to Store Leftovers
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. For best results, reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, or microwave individual portions for convenience.
What Can I Serve with Cornbread Taco Bake?
This dish is hearty on its own, but you can pair it with a simple green salad or some tortilla chips on the side for added crunch. A dollop of guacamole or extra salsa can also elevate the flavors!
