This Easy Cheesy Cornbread Taco Bake is a tasty twist on tacos! It starts with a savory cornbread base, topped with flavorful taco filling, beans, cheese, and a crunchy topping. Yum!
It’s a fun way to serve tacos that the whole family will love. You can easily make it ahead, so it’s perfect for busy weeknights. Plus, who can resist melted cheese? 😉
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cornbread Mix: A box mix makes this recipe quick and easy! If you prefer homemade, just whip up your favorite cornbread recipe. Don’t have cornmeal? Use flour with baking powder for a quick substitute.
Ground Beef: For a healthier option, try using ground turkey, chicken, or even a plant-based meat alternative. This can save on calories and fat while still giving that delicious taco flavor.
Taco Seasoning: Instead of a pre-packaged seasoning mix, you can use your own blend of spices like cumin, chili powder, garlic powder, and paprika. It lets you control the heat and flavor to suit your taste!
Beans: Black beans are great for texture and nutrition but feel free to use pinto beans, kidney beans, or even chickpeas! They all work well and can be swapped depending on what you have on hand.
Cheeses: Cheddar and Monterey Jack are classic, but you can mix it up! Pepper Jack adds a nice kick, or use a Mexican blend for extra zest. Dairy-free cheese also works if you’re looking to avoid dairy.
What’s the Best Way to Layer for Even Cooking?
Layering correctly is key to ensure every bite is flavorful! Start with your cornbread layer, then add the beef mixture, and finish with the sour cream and cheese dollops. Here’s how:
- After baking the cornbread for 15-20 minutes, it should be just set. This creates a strong base for the toppings.
- Spread the beef mixture evenly so it covers the cornbread completely, helping to keep it moist.
- When adding the sour cream-cheese mix, drop spoonfuls around the surface to create pockets of creaminess.
- This method allows the sauce to seep down and blend with the beef layer as it bakes, making delicious bites!
Enjoy making this Easy Cheesy Cornbread Taco Bake! It’s perfect for family dinners, game nights, or any night you want comfort food.
Easy Cheesy Cornbread Taco Bake
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 box cornbread mix (or homemade cornbread batter)
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 small onion, diced
- 1 packet taco seasoning mix
- 1 cup canned corn kernels, drained
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (10 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies, drained
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1-2 cups shredded lettuce
- 1 medium tomato, diced
- 1/2 cup sliced black olives
- Optional: chopped cilantro for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes of preparation time and around 35-40 minutes of cooking time. In total, you’ll be looking at about an hour to bring this delicious dish to the table!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Get Your Oven Ready:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). While that’s warming up, prepare your cornbread batter according to the package instructions or your favorite homemade recipe.
2. Prepare the Cornbread Layer:
Spread the prepared cornbread batter evenly into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. You want it to cover the bottom evenly.
3. Bake the Cornbread:
Pop the baking dish in the oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, just until the cornbread is set but not browned. Once ready, take it out of the oven and set aside to cool slightly.
4. Cook the Beef Mixture:
While the cornbread is baking, grab a large skillet and heat it over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and diced onion, cooking until the beef is browned and the onion has softened. Drain any excess fat.
5. Season the Beef:
Stir in the taco seasoning, corn, black beans, and diced tomatoes with green chilies. Cook for a few more minutes until everything is heated through and the flavors meld together.
6. Assemble the Bake:
Spread the flavorful beef mixture evenly over the partially baked cornbread layer. This creates a delicious filling base.
7. Mix the Cheesy Topping:
In a small bowl, mix the sour cream with half of the shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses. This mixture will add creaminess and flavor.
8. Dollop and Spread:
Dollop the sour cream and cheese mixture over the beef layer, using a spatula to spread gently but keeping some texture. You want those cheesy pockets!
9. Add More Cheese:
Sprinkle the remaining cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses evenly over the top. The more cheese, the better!
10. Final Baking:
Return the baking dish to the oven and bake for another 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese on top is melted and bubbly. Your kitchen will smell amazing!
11. Cool and Serve:
Take it out of the oven and let it cool slightly before serving. This helps it hold its shape when you cut it.
12. Add Toppings:
Top each serving with shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, sliced black olives, and a sprinkle of chopped cilantro if you like. These fresh toppings add crunch and flavor!
Enjoy your cheesy, hearty, and colorful Cornbread Taco Bake! It’s a perfect dish for family dinners, gatherings, or a cozy night in.
FAQ for Easy Cheesy Cornbread Taco Bake
Can I Use a Different Type of Meat?
Absolutely! You can substitute ground beef with ground turkey, chicken, or even a plant-based meat alternative. This way, you can customize the dish to fit your dietary preferences or needs!
What If I Don’t Have Cornbread Mix?
No problem! You can easily make homemade cornbread using basic ingredients like cornmeal, flour, sugar, baking powder, milk, eggs, and butter. Just follow a simple cornbread recipe for a delicious base.
Can I Make This Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the beef mixture and cornbread batter ahead of time. Assemble the dish, then store it in the refrigerator for up to a day before baking. Just be sure to bake it right before serving for the best texture!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, or use the microwave if you’re in a hurry!
