Combining the comforting, hearty elements of cornbread with the spicy, flavorful filling of a classic taco, this Cornbread Taco Bake is a fusion dish that’s sure to become a family favorite. I first stumbled upon this recipe during a potluck dinner, where it quickly became the star of the show. The dish combines the savory goodness of taco-seasoned ground beef, the sweetness of cornbread, and the freshness of various toppings. It’s perfect for weeknight dinners, gatherings, or any occasion where you want to impress with minimal effort.
Ingredients
1 pound lean ground beef
1 small onion, diced
1 bell pepper, diced
1 can (15 ounces) black beans, drained and rinsed
1 can (15 ounces) corn, drained
1 packet taco seasoning mix
1 cup salsa
1 box (8.5 ounces) cornbread mix, prepared according to package instructions
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Optional toppings: sliced jalapeños, diced tomatoes, sour cream, chopped cilantro, avocado slices
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Baking Dish
Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures that the oven is at the right temperature when you’re ready to bake the casserole.
Grease the Baking Dish: Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray. This prevents the cornbread from sticking to the dish and makes for easier cleanup later.
Step 2: Cook the Ground Beef
Brown the Ground Beef: In a large skillet, cook 1 pound of lean ground beef over medium heat until it is browned and cooked through. This usually takes about 7-10 minutes. Use a spatula to break up the meat as it cooks, ensuring it browns evenly.
Drain Excess Fat: Once the ground beef is cooked, drain any excess fat from the skillet. This step is crucial to prevent the dish from becoming too greasy.
Step 3: Add Vegetables and Seasoning
Add Onion and Bell Pepper: Add 1 diced small onion and 1 diced bell pepper to the skillet with the ground beef. Cook until the vegetables are softened, about 5 minutes. Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking.
Incorporate Black Beans and Corn: Stir in 1 can (15 ounces) of drained and rinsed black beans and 1 can (15 ounces) of drained corn. Mix well to combine.
Add Taco Seasoning and Salsa: Sprinkle 1 packet of taco seasoning mix over the meat and vegetable mixture. Add 1 cup of salsa and stir until everything is evenly coated. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
Step 4: Assemble the Casserole
Transfer to Baking Dish: Transfer the taco filling to the prepared baking dish. Spread it out evenly to ensure a uniform layer.
Prepare Cornbread Mix: Prepare the cornbread mix according to the package instructions. Typically, this involves mixing the cornbread mix with water, milk, and an egg. Stir until the batter is smooth and well-combined.
Pour Cornbread Batter: Pour the prepared cornbread batter over the taco filling in the baking dish. Spread it out evenly to cover the entire surface.
Add Cheese: Sprinkle 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top of the cornbread batter. This adds a deliciously cheesy crust to the bake.
Step 5: Bake the Casserole
Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the cornbread is golden brown and cooked through. To check for doneness, insert a toothpick into the center of the cornbread; if it comes out clean, the dish is ready.
Cool Slightly: Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. This makes it easier to slice and serve.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Serve Hot: Serve the Cornbread Taco Bake hot, topped with your favorite taco fixings. Popular choices include sliced jalapeños, diced tomatoes, sour cream, chopped cilantro, and avocado slices.
Variations and Substitutions
Vegetarian Option: Replace the ground beef with a plant-based meat substitute or additional beans, such as pinto beans or chickpeas.
Different Meat: Substitute ground beef with ground turkey, chicken, or pork for a different flavor profile.
Spicy Twist: Add chopped jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the taco filling for extra heat.
Cheese Choices: Experiment with different types of cheese, such as Monterey Jack, pepper jack, or a Mexican blend, to change up the flavor.
Cornbread Mix: If you prefer homemade cornbread, use your favorite recipe instead of the boxed mix.
Conclusion
Cornbread Taco Bake is a delicious, versatile dish that combines the best elements of tacos and cornbread into one hearty casserole. It’s perfect for feeding a crowd or meal prepping for the week. The layers of flavorful taco filling, tender cornbread, and melted cheese make every bite a delight.
The appeal of this recipe lies in its simplicity and adaptability. With easy-to-find ingredients and straightforward steps, it’s an accessible dish for cooks of all levels. The optional toppings allow you to customize each serving to suit individual tastes, making it a hit at family dinners or gatherings with friends.
In summary, this Cornbread Taco Bake is a must-try recipe that brings comfort, flavor, and convenience to your table. So, gather your ingredients, follow these detailed instructions, and enjoy a dish that’s sure to become a staple in your home.