This Easy Cornbread Taco Bake is the perfect mix of yummy flavors! It has a tasty cornbread topping, spicy taco meat, and gooey cheese, making it a hit at any meal.
It’s super fun to make and even more fun to eat! I love serving it with some fresh toppings like sour cream and salsa—it’s like a party on your plate! 🎉
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cornbread Mix: This is the star of the dish, providing a sweet and moist base. If you don’t have a mix, you can quickly make your own with flour, cornmeal, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
Ground Beef or Turkey: Both meats work well, but I prefer turkey for a lighter option. You can also use plant-based meat alternatives if you’re looking for a vegetarian choice.
Taco Seasoning: Store-bought seasoning is convenient, but homemade is healthier and allows you to adjust spices. Mix cumin, chili powder, garlic powder, and onion powder for a homemade blend.
Black Beans: They add protein and fiber. If you don’t have black beans, pinto beans or chickpeas can be awesome substitutes!
Salsa: This gives flavor and moisture. Use any salsa you like, mild or spicy. If you’re out of salsa, a mix of diced tomatoes with some spices can work too.
How Do I Ensure My Cornbread Taco Bake Comes Out Perfectly?
Follow these steps to make sure your dish doesn’t disappoint. First, be mindful when mixing the cornbread; overmixing can make it dense. Mixing until just combined helps keep it light.
- Use medium heat when browning meat to avoid burning. Make sure it’s cooked through but still moist.
- Layer the ingredients properly. Spreading sour cream and cheese evenly will help it melt uniformly.
- Check that the cheese is bubbly and golden. If needed, let it bake a little longer, keeping an eye on it.
- Let it cool for a few minutes before serving. This helps the layers set and makes serving easier.
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 large egg
For the Taco Filling:
- 1 pound ground beef (or turkey)
- 1 packet taco seasoning (1 oz)
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup corn, canned or frozen
- 1 cup salsa
For the Topping:
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup diced tomatoes
- 1/4 cup sliced black olives
- 1 cup shredded lettuce
- Fresh cilantro, for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This yummy Cornbread Taco Bake will take about 15 minutes to prepare, and then about 25-30 minutes to bake in the oven. In total, you’re looking at around 45 minutes from start to finish before it’s ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
First things first, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This helps to ensure your taco bake cooks evenly and turns out delicious!
2. Prepare the Cornbread Mixture:
In a mixing bowl, take your cornbread mix, milk, and egg. Stir everything together until it’s well blended. Set this bowl aside for now while we get the taco filling ready.
3. Cook the Meat:
In a skillet over medium heat, add your ground beef or turkey. Brown the meat until it’s fully cooked, making sure to drain off any excess fat. This will keep your bake from becoming greasy.
4. Make the Taco Filling:
Add the taco seasoning to the cooked meat. Then, toss in the black beans, corn, and salsa. Stir everything together and let it cook for about 5 minutes. This allows those flavors to mix perfectly!
5. Assemble the Bake:
Grab a greased 9×13 inch baking dish and spread the cornbread mixture evenly on the bottom. Next, layer the hearty meat mixture over the cornbread, spreading it out evenly.
6. Add Toppings:
In a separate bowl, take your sour cream and spread it over the meat layer. Then, sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese on top. This will give it a creamy, cheesy finish!
7. Bake It:
Now, place your assembled bake in the preheated oven and let it bake for 25-30 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the cheese is bubbly and the cornbread is thoroughly cooked.
8. Cool and Garnish:
Once it’s done, carefully remove the dish from the oven and let it cool for about 5 minutes. Then, top your Cornbread Taco Bake with diced tomatoes, sliced black olives, and shredded lettuce. If you like, add some fresh cilantro to make it look extra nice!
9. Serve and Enjoy:
Now you can dig in! Serve your Cornbread Taco Bake warm and enjoy this delightful twist on tacos!
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Ground Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great substitute for ground beef. It will provide a lighter flavor while still keeping the dish hearty. Just make sure to cook the turkey thoroughly and drain any excess fat for the best results.
Can I Make This Recipe Vegetarian?
Yes, you can easily make this dish vegetarian! Replace the ground beef with additional beans (like more black beans or pinto beans) or use a meat substitute such as plant-based ground meat. It will still be delicious and satisfying!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, you can use the microwave or place it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, making sure the center is hot.
Can I Freeze Cornbread Taco Bake?
Yes! To freeze, allow the bake to cool completely, then store it in an airtight container or freezer-safe bag. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw it in the fridge overnight and bake at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.
