This Easy Cheesy Cornbread Taco Bake is a fun twist on dinner! With layers of cornbread, seasoned meat, and gooey cheese, it’s both hearty and tasty.
Trust me, your family will love this one-pan meal! I enjoy serving it with a dollop of sour cream on top for a little extra yum. Easy and delicious—what’s not to love?
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cornbread Mix: You can use a box mix for convenience, but homemade cornbread batter adds a personal touch. If you’re gluten-free, try a GF cornbread mix.
Ground Beef: Lean ground turkey or chicken works great as a lighter option. For a vegetarian twist, consider lentils or a mix of beans.
Taco Seasoning: Store-bought is super easy, but homemade is more fun! Combine chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, and onion powder for a fresh mix.
Cheddar Cheese: I love sharp cheddar for its bold flavor, but you can use Monterey Jack, pepper jack, or any cheese you enjoy. Use dairy-free cheese for a vegan option.
Sour Cream: Greek yogurt can replace sour cream for added protein, or use a dairy-free yogurt for a vegan choice.
How to Ensure Your Cornbread Base is Perfectly Cooked?
Getting the cornbread base right is crucial for this bake. Bake it until it’s just about set, as it will continue cooking when you add the toppings. Remember, a toothpick should come out mostly clean—moist but not wet!
- Preheat your oven as directed, around 375°F (190°C).
- Pour the batter into a greased baking dish evenly.
- Bake for about 12-15 minutes, checking with a toothpick before proceeding to the next steps.
Easy Cheesy Cornbread Taco Bake
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Cornbread Base:
- 1 box cornbread mix (or homemade cornbread batter, about 8 oz)
For the Taco Filling:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 packet taco seasoning mix
- 1 cup frozen corn kernels (or canned, drained)
- 1 cup diced tomatoes (fresh or canned, drained)
For Toppings:
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese, divided
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 cup shredded lettuce
- 1/2 cup black olives, sliced
- 1/2 cup diced tomatoes (for topping)
- Optional: chopped cilantro for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious taco bake will take around 15 minutes to prepare and 30-40 minutes to cook. That’s about 55 minutes total from start to yummy finish! Perfect for a busy weeknight dinner.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare:
Start by preheating your oven to the temperature listed on the cornbread mix package, usually around 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish generously to prevent sticking.
2. Prepare the Cornbread Base:
Next, make the cornbread batter according to the package instructions. Once mixed, pour it evenly into your greased baking dish. Pop it in the oven and bake for about 12-15 minutes, or until it’s almost set. A toothpick should come out mostly clean, with just a bit of moisture.
3. Cook the Taco Filling:
While the cornbread is baking, grab a large skillet and heat it over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef, breaking it apart with a spatula. Cook until it’s browned and no longer pink, about 5-7 minutes. Once browned, drain any excess fat from the pan.
4. Add Seasoning and Vegetables:
Stir in the taco seasoning along with about 2/3 cup of water (or as per the packet instructions). Let it simmer and thicken for about 5 minutes. Then, stir in the corn and diced tomatoes, cooking for another 2 minutes. Remove from heat once it’s heated through.
5. Layer It Up:
Take your partially baked cornbread out of the oven and spread the seasoned beef mixture evenly over the top. Then, dollop the sour cream all over the beef layer. Sprinkle 2/3 of the cheddar cheese on top for that cheesy goodness!
6. Final Bake:
Return the dish to the oven and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Keep an eye on it to prevent burning!
7. Cool and Garnish:
Once baked, remove it from the oven and let it cool for about 5 minutes before serving. Top with shredded lettuce, the remaining cheddar cheese, sliced olives, and diced tomatoes. Feel free to sprinkle some chopped cilantro for a fresh touch.
8. Serve and Enjoy!
Cut yourself a generous piece of this mouthwatering taco bake, and dig in while it’s warm. It’s a crowd-pleaser that’s easy to enjoy on a cozy night with family or friends!
This layered casserole brings together cornbread, savory taco filling, and delicious toppings for a meal that’s sure to be a hit!
FAQ for Easy Cheesy Cornbread Taco Bake
Can I Use a Different Type of Meat?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken can be used for a leaner option, and for a vegetarian version, try using black beans or lentils as a substitute. Just be sure to adjust the seasoning accordingly to keep the flavor robust!
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
You can prep the cornbread and filling ahead of time! Assemble everything (up to step 7) and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to bake, add a few extra minutes to the cooking time if it goes in cold.
What Should I Do with Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in the oven or microwave. If it seems dry, a splash of water or broth can help keep it moist while reheating.
Can I Customize the Toppings?
Yes! Feel free to add or swap toppings as you prefer. Jalapeños, avocado, or even fresh salsa are great additions. Get creative with what you have on hand or what you enjoy!
