This fun Cornbread Taco Bake is a tasty twist on tacos! It features hearty ground meat, beans, and zesty taco seasoning, all topped with delicious cornbread that’s baked to golden perfection.
I love how easy this dish is—just layer everything in one pan and pop it in the oven. Perfect for busy nights when you want something warm and satisfying without too much fuss! 🌽🌮
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cornbread Mix: The base for this dish, using a pre-made cornbread mix is quick and easy. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can make your own from scratch with cornmeal, flour, sugar, baking powder, and milk.
Ground Beef: I often use ground turkey for a leaner option, but you can also try ground chicken or even a plant-based meat substitute if you’re looking for a vegetarian version.
Taco Seasoning: A packet is convenient, but it’s just as easy to mix up your own with chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika to control the flavor and spice levels.
Black Beans: These are great for added fiber and protein. If you don’t have black beans, kidney beans or pinto beans can work well, too. You can even leave out beans altogether for a simpler bake.
Salsa: Using your favorite salsa adds a fresh kick. If you prefer less spice, look for mild salsa, or use diced tomatoes with green chilies for a milder flavor.
How Do I Get the Cornbread Layer Just Right?
Getting the cornbread layer right is key for this bake. Make sure to prepare the cornbread mix according to the package instructions. Here are my tips:
- Mix gently to avoid overworking the batter – this keeps it light and fluffy.
- Spread half in the baking dish and ensure it’s even; this layer acts as the base.
- Don’t worry too much about it being perfectly smooth on top, as it will rise while baking.
Watch for the golden brown color. If you’re unsure, check with a toothpick – it should come out clean! Enjoy the delicious warmth of each bite.
How to Make Cornbread Taco Bake
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Cornbread:
- 1 box cornbread mix (approximately 8.5 oz)
- 1 cup milk
- 1 large egg
For the Beef Mixture:
- 1 lb ground beef (or turkey)
- 1 packet taco seasoning (1 oz)
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup corn (frozen or canned)
- 1 cup salsa
For Topping:
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup diced tomatoes (for garnish)
- 1/2 cup shredded lettuce (for garnish)
- 1/4 cup sliced black olives (for garnish)
- Fresh cilantro (for garnish, optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Cornbread Taco Bake will take about 15 minutes to prepare and 30-37 minutes to cook, making the total time approximately 45-52 minutes. You’ll love how quick and easy it is to put together a delicious, hearty meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This will make sure it’s hot enough to bake your bake perfectly!
2. Prepare the Cornbread Mix:
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the cornbread mix, milk, and egg according to the package instructions. Once combined, set it aside.
3. Cook the Beef:
In a large skillet over medium heat, add the ground beef (or turkey). Cook, breaking it apart with a spatula, until it’s no longer pink. Drain any excess fat so your bake isn’t too greasy.
4. Make the Beef Mixture:
Next, stir in the taco seasoning, black beans, corn, and salsa into the cooked meat. Give it a good mix and let it simmer for about 5 minutes, so the flavors come together.
5. Layer the Cornbread:
Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with a bit of cooking spray or butter. Spread half of the cornbread mixture evenly across the bottom of the dish. This will be the first layer!
6. Add the Beef Layer:
Pour the tasty beef mixture over the corn layer, making sure it’s spread evenly. This is where the flavor really starts to shine!
7. Top with Remaining Cornbread:
Now, spoon the remaining cornbread mixture on top of the beef layer. Smooth it out gently to cover the beef.
8. Bake It Up:
Place your baking dish in the oven and bake for about 25-30 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the cornbread is cooked through and has turned a lovely golden brown color.
9. Add the Toppings:
Once baked, take it out of the oven. Let it cool for a few minutes, then spread the sour cream evenly over the top. This makes it creamy and delicious!
10. Cheese it Up:
Next, sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese on top and pop it back into the oven for an additional 5-7 minutes, just until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
11. Garnish and Serve:
Finally, before serving, add your garnishes! Top with diced tomatoes, shredded lettuce, sliced black olives, and fresh cilantro if you like. Your Cornbread Taco Bake is now ready to enjoy!
Enjoy this hearty and delicious Cornbread Taco Bake, perfect for a family meal!
Can I Substitute the Ground Beef?
Absolutely! You can use ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option, or even plant-based ground meat if you’re looking for a vegetarian alternative. Just ensure that the cooking times remain similar to ensure everything is cooked through properly!
What Should I Do If I Don’t Have Cornbread Mix?
If you’re out of cornbread mix, you can easily make your own. Combine 1 cup cornmeal, 1 cup flour, 1/4 cup sugar, 1 tablespoon baking powder, and 1/2 teaspoon salt. Add your wet ingredients as per the package instructions, and you’ll be ready to go!
How Do I Store Leftover Cornbread Taco Bake?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply pop it in the microwave or warm it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through. You might want to add a pinch of extra cheese on top before reheating for added flavor!
Can I Add Other Vegetables to This Recipe?
Yes! Feel free to add other veggies such as bell peppers, zucchini, or even spinach. Just sauté them briefly with the ground meat before adding the taco seasoning, so they get tender and flavorful!
