This Easy Cheesy Cornbread Taco Bake is a fun twist on taco night! It features layers of cornbread, beef, cheese, and spices that come together in a warm, cozy dish. Yum!
It’s like a party in a pan! I love how the cheesy goodness melts into the cornbread. Perfect for those nights when you want something quick and tasty—just bake, serve, and enjoy!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cornbread mix: An 8.5 oz box is perfect for this recipe. If you’re avoiding processed mixes, you can make cornbread from scratch using cornmeal, flour, baking powder, sugar, milk, and eggs.
Ground beef: Lean ground beef works well, but feel free to substitute with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option. Plant-based crumbles are also a great choice for a vegetarian version.
Taco seasoning: Instead of a pre-made mix, you can easily blend your spices—chili powder, cumin, paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder—for a fresh taste without the additives.
Salsa: Use your favorite salsa—mild, medium, or hot—depending on your spice preference. For a fresh twist, consider using fresh diced tomatoes with jalapeños.
How Do I Get the Cornbread Texture Just Right?
The key to great cornbread is not to overmix the batter. Mix until just combined—it’s okay if there are a few lumps. This keeps the cornbread fluffy and light!
- Follow the package instructions carefully for baking time and temperature.
- Check for doneness by inserting a toothpick; it should come out clean.
Add the beef mixture while the cornbread is slightly underbaked for a perfectly layered dish. Trust me, the gooey cheese will hold it all together.
Easy Cheesy Cornbread Taco Bake
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 box cornbread mix (about 8.5 oz)
- Ingredients called for in cornbread mix (usually eggs, milk, and oil)
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 packet taco seasoning mix
- 1 cup corn kernels (frozen or canned)
- 1 cup salsa or diced tomatoes with green chilies
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 cup shredded lettuce
- 1/2 cup chopped tomatoes
- 1/4 cup sliced black olives
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Easy Cheesy Cornbread Taco Bake takes about 35-40 minutes total. You’ll spend roughly 10 minutes prepping the ingredients and about 25-30 minutes baking and finishing everything. Perfect for a weeknight dinner that’s both quick and satisfying!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat Your Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to the temperature specified on the cornbread mix box—usually around 375°F (190°C). This ensures your cornbread bakes perfectly.
2. Prepare the Cornbread Batter:
In a mixing bowl, prepare the cornbread batter according to the package directions. This typically involves mixing the cornbread mix with eggs, milk, and oil. Stir until just combined—no need to overmix!
3. Bake the Initial Layer:
Pour the cornbread batter evenly into a greased 9×9-inch baking dish. Bake in the preheated oven for about 10 minutes, just until it begins to set but is not fully cooked. This will create a sturdy base for your toppings!
4. Cook the Ground Beef:
While the cornbread bakes, heat a skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spatula. Once browned, drain any excess fat to keep the dish from being greasy.
5. Add Flavor to the Beef:
Once the beef is cooked, add the taco seasoning, corn, and salsa (or diced tomatoes with green chilies). Stir everything together and let it cook for a few minutes until everything is heated through and well combined.
6. Assemble the Taco Bake:
After 10 minutes of baking, pull the cornbread out of the oven. Carefully spread the beef mixture evenly over the cornbread. Then, sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese generously on top of the beef layer.
7. Final Bake:
Return the dish to the oven and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the cornbread is completely cooked through and the cheese is melted and bubbly. You want that golden, cheesy goodness!
8. Let it Cool & Serve:
Remove the Easy Cheesy Cornbread Taco Bake from the oven and set it aside for a few minutes to cool slightly. This helps everything settle and makes serving easier!
9. Add Toppings:
Finally, dollop sour cream over the top and garnish with your shredded lettuce, chopped tomatoes, and sliced black olives. These fresh toppings add a nice crunch and flavor to the dish!
10. Enjoy!
Serve warm and dig in! This dish is perfect for taco lovers and sure to be a hit at dinner. Enjoy your cheesy, savory Cornbread Taco Bake!
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 like lentils or beans for a vegetarian option. Just make sure to adjust the cooking times if needed!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it gently in the oven or microwave until heated through. You may want to add a splash of water or broth before reheating to keep it moist.
Can I Make This Recipe Gluten-Free?
Yes! Simply use a gluten-free cornbread mix. Check the labels of your other ingredients, like salsa and taco seasoning, to ensure they are gluten-free as well.
Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?
Definitely! You can prepare the cornbread layer ahead and keep the beef mixture separate in the fridge. Assemble and bake it just before serving for a warm, fresh dish!
