This Cornbread Taco Bake is a tasty and cozy dish that brings together all your favorite flavors! It features a layer of delicious taco filling topped with fluffy cornbread that bakes to golden perfection.
It’s like a taco night and a cozy casserole got together for a fun party! I love making this when I want something quick and satisfying—just mix, bake, and enjoy with some toppings!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cornbread Mix: The star of this dish! A classic cornbread mix makes it easy and quick. If you want a homemade touch, you can substitute it with a homemade mix of cornmeal, flour, baking powder, and sugar.
Ground Beef: I usually opt for ground turkey for a healthier twist. You could also use plant-based meat or extra beans if you prefer a vegetarian version.
Black Beans: These add protein and fiber. If you don’t have black beans, pinto beans or kidney beans can work too! Even chickpeas are a good alternative.
Salsa: A medium salsa gives great flavor. If you want less spice, use a mild salsa or combine diced tomatoes with some spices instead. Homemade salsa is always an option too!
Cheddar Cheese: I love using sharp cheddar for its robust flavor! If you want to mix things up, try Monterey Jack or even Pepper Jack for an extra kick.
How Do I Get the Best Layering in My Taco Bake?
Layering is key to ensuring each bite has amazing flavor. Start with a baked cornbread layer as your base. It’s important that it’s baked until lightly golden before adding the beef mixture on top. Allow enough time for the beef mixture to simmer so all the flavors meld together.
- Make sure to spread the beef mixture evenly to avoid dry spots.
- Mix the sour cream with half the cheese to create a creamy layer, adding moisture to the bake.
- Top everything off with the remaining cheese for that gooey goodness!
After everything is baked, adding fresh toppings like olives, lettuce, and tomatoes adds a fresh crunch, balancing the flavors nicely. Enjoy layering this dish!
How to Make Cornbread Taco Bake
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Cornbread Base:
- 1 (8.5 oz) box cornbread mix
- 1 large egg
- 1/3 cup milk
For the Filling:
- 1 lb ground beef (or turkey)
- 1 packet taco seasoning
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup corn (canned or frozen)
- 1 cup salsa
For the Toppings:
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup black olives, sliced
- 1 cup shredded lettuce
- 1 tomato, diced
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Cornbread Taco Bake will take about 35-40 minutes to prepare and bake. You’ll spend around 10 minutes on preparation and about 25-30 minutes baking, making it a quick and tasty meal for any day!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures your cornbread cooks evenly.
2. Prepare the Cornbread Base:
In a mixing bowl, combine the cornbread mix, egg, and milk. Stir until everything is just mixed—don’t over-mix! Once combined, pour the batter into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish. Bake for about 15-20 minutes, or until the top is lightly golden and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
3. Cook the Filling:
While the cornbread is baking, heat a skillet over medium heat and cook the ground beef or turkey until it’s browned. Once cooked, drain any excess fat. Then, add the taco seasoning, black beans, corn, and salsa to the skillet. Stir everything together and let the mixture simmer for about 5 minutes so the flavors can meld.
4. Assemble the Bake:
When the cornbread is done, take it out of the oven. Spread the beef and bean mixture evenly over the top of the cornbread.
5. Add Sour Cream Mixture:
In a separate bowl, mix the sour cream with half of the shredded cheddar cheese. Spread this creamy mixture over the beef layer to add extra flavor and creaminess.
6. Top with Cheese:
Sprinkle the remaining shredded cheddar cheese over the top of everything. This will create a delicious cheesy crust when baked.
7. Bake Again:
Return the dish to the oven and bake for another 15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Your kitchen will smell amazing!
8. Cool and Serve:
Once it’s done baking, let it cool for a few minutes. Then, top with sliced olives, shredded lettuce, and diced tomatoes for a fresh finish. Serve warm and enjoy your delicious Cornbread Taco Bake!
Can I Use a Different Type of Meat in This Recipe?
Absolutely! You can substitute the ground beef with ground turkey, chicken, or even a plant-based ground meat for a vegetarian option. Just ensure to cook the meat thoroughly and follow the same instructions for adding taco seasoning and other ingredients.
What Can I Substitute for Cornbread Mix?
If you don’t have cornbread mix on hand, you can make your own by combining 1 cup all-purpose flour, 1 cup cornmeal, 1/4 cup sugar, 1 tablespoon baking powder, and 1/2 teaspoon salt. Mix in 1 large egg and 1/3 cup milk to achieve a similar consistency before pouring it into the baking dish.
Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the taco bake ahead of time! Assemble the layers up to the point of baking, cover with foil, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to bake, allow it to come to room temperature before putting it in the oven. You may need to increase the baking time by a few minutes.
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, or in the microwave for quicker results. Just be careful not to overheat, or the cornbread might get tough!
