This Cornbread Taco Bake is a fun and easy dish that combines the best of both worlds! You get a tasty taco filling topped with a fluffy cornbread layer, making each bite a delight.
It’s perfect for busy nights when you want something comforting. I love how it only takes a short time to whip up; your family will be asking for seconds in no time!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cornbread Mix: The base of this recipe is cornbread mix. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can make your own from scratch using cornmeal, baking powder, sugar, and milk. This can add a personal touch!
Ground Beef or Turkey: I love using ground turkey for a leaner option, but ground beef gives a richer flavor. You can also try plant-based crumbles if you’re looking for a meatless option!
Taco Seasoning: A packet of taco seasoning is super convenient, but you can easily mix your own using chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, and onion powder if you prefer control over the spices.
Canned Diced Tomatoes: The tomatoes add moisture and flavor. If you want a milder dish, you can swap for plain diced tomatoes or even roasted tomatoes for a deeper flavor.
Cheese: While I recommend cheddar or a Mexican blend, feel free to use pepper jack for some heat or mozzarella for a milder taste. The cheese adds a creamy texture – don’t skip it!
How Do You Brown Ground Meat Without Overcooking It?
Browning ground meat is crucial for flavor, so here’s how to do it right. Start by heating your skillet over medium heat. This helps the meat cook evenly and prevents it from drying out.
- Break the meat into smaller pieces as it cooks, allowing for even browning.
- Cook until it’s no longer pink, about 6-8 minutes.
- Drain excess fat to avoid a greasy bake. If you want to keep the flavor, save some fat for cooking the veggies!
- Browning at a medium temperature is key. Going too high can lead to burnt bits!
How to Make Cornbread Taco Bake
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Cornbread Base:
- 1 box cornbread mix (plus the ingredients listed on the box)
For the Taco Filling:
- 1 pound ground beef or turkey
- 1 packet taco seasoning
- 1 can diced tomatoes with green chilies (undrained)
- 1 cup corn (frozen or canned)
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or Mexican blend)
For the Toppings:
- 1 cup sour cream
- ½ cup black olives (sliced)
- ½ cup shredded lettuce
- ½ cup diced tomatoes (for topping)
- Optional garnishes: chopped cilantro, jalapeños
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Cornbread Taco Bake takes about 15 minutes to prepare and 25-30 minutes to bake, so you’ll be enjoying it in just under an hour! Perfect for a quick weeknight meal or a fun gathering with friends.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). While it’s heating, grease a 9×13 inch baking dish to prevent sticking.
2. Prepare the Cornbread:
Follow the instructions on your cornbread mix box. Once mixed, pour the cornbread batter into the greased baking dish and spread it evenly across the bottom. This will be the base of your taco bake!
3. Cook the Meat:
In a skillet over medium heat, add your ground beef or turkey. Cook it while stirring until it’s fully browned. Once done, drain any excess fat so your bake isn’t greasy.
4. Mix in the Taco Flavors:
Sprinkle the taco seasoning over the cooked meat. Then add the undrained can of diced tomatoes and the corn. Stir everything together and let it cook for another 5 minutes on the heat. This helps all those tasty flavors blend together.
5. Layer the Filling:
Carefully spoon the meat mixture over the cornbread layer in the baking dish. Then sprinkle half of the shredded cheese over the meat—this will create a delicious cheesy layer!
6. Create the Sour Cream Layer:
In a separate bowl, mix together the sour cream and the remaining cheese. Spread this creamy mixture over the cheese layer in your baking dish, covering it well.
7. Bake to Perfection:
Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the top looks bubbly and golden brown. Your kitchen will smell amazing!
8. Add the Fresh Toppings:
Once baked, carefully remove the Cornbread Taco Bake from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Then, top with the shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, black olives, and any optional garnishes like chopped cilantro or jalapeños for an extra kick.
9. Serve and Enjoy:
Cut the bake into squares and serve it warm. Everyone will love this hearty and flavorful dish—enjoy your Cornbread Taco Bake!
Can I Use a Different Protein in This Recipe?
Absolutely! You can substitute ground beef with ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based meat for a vegetarian option. Just ensure you season the protein to your taste and cook it thoroughly before layering it in the bake.
What Can I Use Instead of Sour Cream?
If you’re out of sour cream, Greek yogurt works as a fantastic substitute! It’ll give you a similar tangy flavor and creamy texture. You can also use cream cheese, just mix it with a little milk or water to achieve the right consistency.
Can I Make This Cornbread Taco Bake Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the entire dish up until baking, cover it tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Just bake it for a few extra minutes to ensure it’s heated through before serving.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For best results, reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, to keep the cornbread nice and fluffy!
