This Cornbread Taco Bake is a fun twist on taco night! It’s made with layers of tasty ground beef, zesty taco seasoning, and topped with fluffy cornbread for a hearty meal.
This dish is like a hug in a skillet! I love how easy it is to put together—just mix and bake. Perfect for those nights when you want something warm and filling, with a side of smiles!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cornbread Mix: This is the star of the dish! If you can’t find a mix, you can make your own with flour, cornmeal, sugar, baking powder, and salt. I love using a honey cornbread mix for added sweetness, but any standard mix will do.
Ground Beef or Turkey: Both work well, but if you’re looking for a healthier option, ground turkey is a great substitute. You could also try plant-based meat alternatives to make it vegetarian!
Black Beans: These add protein and fiber. If you prefer, kidney beans or pinto beans are good replacements. You can also use canned chickpeas if you want a different flavor and texture.
Cheddar Cheese: A must for that cheesy goodness! If you’re after something lighter, reduced-fat cheddar works too. For a flavor kick, try pepper jack or a mix of your favorite cheeses.
Sour Cream: You can use Greek yogurt as a healthier substitute. It gives a similar tangy taste and creamy texture. Vegan sour cream is also an option if you’re dairy-free.
How Do I Ensure the Cornbread Topping is Just Right?
The key to a perfect cornbread layer is not to overmix the batter. Mix it until just combined for a light and fluffy topping. Keep an eye on it while baking; you want it golden brown but not dry. Here’s a quick guide:
- Preheat your oven properly before baking.
- Pour the cornbread batter into a greased baking dish evenly.
- Check for doneness by inserting a toothpick in the center; it should come out clean or with a few crumbs.
Let it cool slightly before topping to keep the layers from mixing together. This will keep your cornbread topping fluffy and delicious!
How to Make Cornbread Taco Bake?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Cornbread:
- 1 box (8.5 oz) cornbread mix
- 1/3 cup milk
- 1 large egg
For the 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 (frozen or canned)
- 1 can (10 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies, drained
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
For Topping:
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 cup shredded lettuce
- 1/2 cup diced tomatoes
- 1/4 cup sliced black olives
- Fresh cilantro (for garnish, optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 15 minutes to prepare and around 25-30 minutes to bake. Overall, you’re looking at about 45 minutes from start to finish to enjoy your tasty Cornbread Taco Bake!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare your Oven and Cornbread Mixture:
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a mixing bowl, combine the cornbread mix, milk, and the egg. Stir gently until everything is just mixed—don’t overdo it! This mixture will be the base of your bake, so set it aside for now.
2. Cook the Meat and Mix in Ingredients:
In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef or turkey until it’s well browned. If there’s extra fat in the pan, you can drain it off. Next, sprinkle in the taco seasoning, followed by the black beans, corn, and drained diced tomatoes. Stir everything together and let it cook for an additional 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to blend.
3. Assemble the Taco Bake:
Take a greased 9×13 inch baking dish and pour the cornbread batter into it, spreading it out so it covers the bottom evenly. Now, layer the meat mixture over the top of the cornbread batter. Take your sour cream and spread it over the meat layer, making sure to cover it nicely. Finally, sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over everything.
4. Bake and Add Toppings:
Place your baking dish in the oven and let it bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Once it’s done, carefully take it out and let it cool for a few minutes. Then, top it off with shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, black olives, and fresh cilantro if you’d like.
5. Serve and Enjoy!
Cut your Cornbread Taco Bake into squares and serve warm. Enjoy this delightful meal with your family and friends!
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 be sure to cook the meat thoroughly until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). The flavor will be slightly different, but still delicious!
What If I Don’t Have Cornbread Mix?
No worries! You can make your own cornbread mix by combining 1 cup of cornmeal, 1 cup of all-purpose flour, 1/4 cup of sugar, 1 tablespoon of baking powder, and a pinch of salt. Add in 1/3 cup of milk and 1 large egg as stated in the original recipe!
How Can I Store Leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, simply microwave individual portions or bake in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through.
Can I Add More Vegetables?
Definitely! Feel free to add bell peppers, zucchini, or even spinach to the meat mixture for extra flavor and nutrition. Just chop them up and add them when you’re cooking the ground meat. Enjoy the versatility!
