This Cornbread Taco Bake is a fun and tasty dish that’s perfect for any meal! Imagine layers of seasoned beef, taco toppings, and a fluffy cornbread crust—yum!
It’s easy to whip up, and you can customize it with your favorite toppings. I love piling on extra cheese and salsa—because who doesn’t love a cheesy taco treat? 🌮
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cornbread Mix: This is the base of the dish, providing a delicious bread layer. If you don’t have a mix, you can make your own using cornmeal, flour, sugar, baking powder, and milk.
Ground Beef: I often use ground turkey for a lighter version. You could also use chicken or plant-based ground meat for a vegetarian option.
Black Beans: These add protein and fiber. If you’re out of black beans, feel free to use pinto or kidney beans instead. Canned beans save time, but dry beans can work too if soaked and cooked properly.
Taco Seasoning: If you don’t have a packet, mix your own with chili powder, cumin, paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder to control the spice level.
Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar brings great flavor to this dish. Other good choices include Monterey Jack or a Mexican blend. For a dairy-free option, try a plant-based cheese.
How Do You Cook Ground Beef Perfectly?
Cooking ground beef right ensures a flavorful filling. Start by setting your skillet on medium heat to prevent the meat from drying out.
- Break the meat into smaller pieces as it cooks for even browning.
- Don’t rush; letting it sear caramelizes the meat’s natural sugars, enhancing flavor.
- Once browned, use a slotted spoon to remove excess fat, keeping the dish lighter.
How to Make Cornbread Taco Bake?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Cornbread Base:
- 1 (8.5 oz) package cornbread mix
- 1/3 cup milk
- 1 large egg
For the Taco Filling:
- 1 lb ground beef (or turkey)
- 1 (15 oz) can black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 (15 oz) can corn, drained
- 1 (1 oz) package taco seasoning
- 1 (10 oz) can diced tomatoes with green chilies
For Topping:
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 cup lettuce, chopped
- 1 cup tomatoes, diced
- 1/2 cup black olives, sliced
- Fresh cilantro for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This cornbread taco bake takes about 15 minutes of prep time and 20-25 minutes of baking. So, you’ll have this delicious dish ready in about 40-45 minutes. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat Your Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This will ensure it’s nice and hot when you’re ready to bake your cornbread taco bake!
2. Make the Cornbread Base:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cornbread mix, milk, and egg. Mix until everything is well blended. Next, pour this mixture into a greased baking dish, spreading it out evenly. This is your cornbread base!
3. Prepare the Taco Filling:
Now, grab a skillet and heat it over medium heat. Add the ground beef (or turkey) and cook it until it’s nicely browned. Make sure to drain any excess fat. Then, stir in the black beans, corn, taco seasoning, and canned tomatoes. Let this cook for an additional 5 minutes, so it’s heated through and mixed well.
4. Assemble the Dish:
Spread the beef mixture evenly over the cornbread layer in your baking dish. This will create a delicious taco filling on top of the cornbread!
5. Add the Sour Cream Finish:
In a medium bowl, combine the sour cream and half of the shredded cheese. Dollop spoonfuls of this creamy mixture over the beef layer. Gently spread it out so it covers most of the beef. This adds a creamy texture that’s really tasty!
6. Top with Cheese and Bake:
Now, sprinkle the remaining cheese on top. Place the dish in your preheated oven and bake for about 20-25 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the cheese is bubbly and the cornbread is fully cooked!
7. Cool and Add Fresh Toppings:
Once it’s baked, let it cool for a few minutes. Then, top it off with the chopped lettuce, diced tomatoes, and sliced olives. This adds a fresh crunch!
8. Serve and Enjoy:
If you like, garnish your cornbread taco bake with fresh cilantro. Cut it into squares, serve it up, and enjoy your delicious creation!
## FAQ Section for Cornbread Taco Bake
Can I Use a Different Protein Instead of Ground Beef?
Absolutely! You can substitute ground turkey, chicken, or even a plant-based meat alternative to suit your dietary preferences. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time as needed based on your protein choice to ensure it’s thoroughly cooked.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, or microwave individual portions for a quick meal!
Can I Make This Recipe Gluten-Free?
Yes! Look for a gluten-free cornbread mix to replace the regular one. Ensure all other canned ingredients and toppings are also gluten-free to maintain the integrity of your dish.
What Can I Use Instead of Sour Cream?
If you prefer a lighter option, plain Greek yogurt works great as a substitute for sour cream. You can also use plant-based yogurt if you need a dairy-free alternative.
