This Cornbread Taco Bake is a fun twist on taco night! It features a tasty layer of cornbread topped with seasoned meat, cheese, and your favorite taco toppings. Yum!
It’s like tacos and cornbread had a delicious baby! I love making this for dinner, and it always gets eaten up quickly. It’s easy and perfect for busy nights!
Ingredients & Substitutions
Cornbread Mix: This is the base of the recipe. If you want to make it from scratch, combine cornmeal, flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. However, using a box mix is an easy and quick option!
Ground Beef or Turkey: Ground turkey is a lean alternative to beef. If you’re looking for something lighter, you can also use ground chicken or even plant-based meat for a vegetarian twist.
Beans: Black beans are great for adding protein and fiber. If you’re not a fan, kidney beans or pinto beans work well too. You could also try chickpeas for a different flavor!
Cheddar Cheese: While sharp cheddar adds a nice flavor, feel free to substitute with Monterey Jack or even a Mexican blend for a different taste. Vegan cheese options are also available if you want a dairy-free choice.
Salsa: Any type of salsa can be used, from mild to spicy. If you’re fresh out, diced tomatoes with a pinch of chili powder can also do the trick!
How Do I Keep the Cornbread Moist and Delicious?
The key to moist cornbread is not overmixing the batter. Combine the ingredients just until they are mixed; some lumps are okay! This will ensure the cornbread stays soft and fluffy.
- Always preheat your oven fully to get that nice rise.
- Try not to open the oven door too soon, as changes in temperature can affect the dough.
- If you like a sweeter cornbread, you can add a tablespoon of sugar to the mix!
How to Make Cornbread Taco Bake?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Cornbread Base:
- 1 box (15.5 oz) cornbread mix
- 1 cup milk
- 2 large eggs
For the Taco Filling:
- 1 lb ground beef (or turkey)
- 1 packet taco seasoning
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup corn (frozen or canned)
- 1 cup salsa
For the Toppings:
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup black olives, sliced
- 1 cup lettuce, shredded
- 1 cup tomatoes, diced
- Fresh cilantro for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful Cornbread Taco Bake takes about 15 minutes to prepare and 25-30 minutes to bake. So, you can be enjoying your tasty dish in about 45-60 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for a quick and satisfying 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 cooks evenly and gets that nice golden brown color.
2. Prepare the Cornbread Batter:
In a mixing bowl, combine the cornbread mix, milk, and eggs. Stir everything together just until it’s mixed—don’t overmix! Set aside while you prepare the filling.
3. Cook the Meat:
In a skillet over medium heat, add the ground beef (or turkey) and cook until browned and fully cooked. Make sure to drain any excess fat so your dish isn’t too greasy.
4. Add Seasoning and Veggies:
Once the meat is cooked, stir in the taco seasoning, black beans, corn, and salsa. Mix everything together and let it heat up for about 5 minutes. This will help the flavors come together!
5. Assemble the Bake:
Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish and pour half of the cornbread batter into it to create a bottom layer. Next, spread the meat mixture over the cornbread layer, and dollop the sour cream on top of the meat. Finally, pour the remaining cornbread batter over the sour cream layer, being gentle as you spread it to cover.
6. Top with Cheese:
Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top of the batter. It will melt beautifully while baking!
7. Bake to Perfection:
Place your baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 25-30 minutes, or until the cornbread is golden brown and a toothpick comes out clean when you test it.
8. Final Touches:
After baking, take the dish out of the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Then, top with shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, and sliced black olives for some crunch and freshness.
9. Serve and Enjoy!
If you’d like, garnish with fresh cilantro for an extra pop of flavor. Slice your Cornbread Taco Bake into squares and serve warm. Enjoy your delicious meal!
Can I Use a Different Meat in This Recipe?
Absolutely! You can substitute ground beef with ground turkey, chicken, or even a plant-based meat alternative. If you’re using leaner meats, you might want to add a little oil to the skillet to prevent sticking.
What Can I Substitute for the Sour Cream?
If you’re out of sour cream or want a lighter option, Greek yogurt is a great substitute. You can also use cream cheese for a richer flavor, just remember to soften it for easier mixing!
Can I Make This Dish Vegetarian?
Yes! Simply replace the ground meat with a mixture of sautéed vegetables, such as bell peppers and zucchini, or use additional black beans. Make sure to choose a vegetarian taco seasoning blend for full flavor.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, pop it in the microwave or place in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through. You can add a splash of salsa or a bit of cheese on top to freshen it up!
