This Cornbread Taco Bake is a delicious fusion of two comforting classics: cheesy tacos and warm, fluffy cornbread. The savory taco-seasoned beef is combined with sweet corn and green peppers, then topped with a golden cornbread crust infused with crispy onions and melted cheddar. Every bite is packed with bold flavors and textures that complement each other perfectly. Perfect for a family dinner or a potluck gathering, this dish is easy to prepare and customizable to your taste. You can spice it up with jalapeños, swap the beef for turkey, or even make it vegetarian with black beans. Serve it with a side of guacamole or a fresh salad for a complete, crowd-pleasing meal!
Full Recipe:
Ingredients:
- 1 ½ pounds ground beef
- 1 can (15 ¼ ounces) whole kernel corn, drained
- 1 can (8 ounces) tomato sauce
- ½ cup water
- ½ cup chopped green pepper
- 1 envelope taco seasoning
- 1 package (8 ½ ounces) cornbread/muffin mix
- 1 can (2.8 ounces) French-fried onions, divided
- ⅓ cup shredded cheddar cheese
Directions:
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
- In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until no longer pink, breaking it into crumbles. Drain any excess grease.
- Stir in the drained corn, tomato sauce, water, chopped green pepper, and taco seasoning. Mix well and spoon the beef mixture into a greased 2-quart baking dish.
- Prepare the cornbread mix according to the package directions. Stir in half of the French-fried onions, then spread the batter evenly over the beef mixture.
- Bake, uncovered, for 20 minutes.
- Sprinkle the top with shredded cheddar cheese and the remaining French-fried onions.
- Continue baking for 3-5 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and a toothpick inserted into the cornbread layer comes out clean.
- Let cool slightly before serving.
Prep Time: 20 minutes | Cooking Time: 25 minutes | Total Time: 45 minutes Calories: 541 kcal per serving | Servings: 6
A Fusion of Two Comfort Foods
Cornbread Taco Bake takes inspiration from two beloved comfort foods tacos and cornbread. Tacos, known for their bold, spicy, and satisfying flavors, have been a staple in Mexican cuisine for centuries, while cornbread is a Southern classic that adds a slightly sweet, fluffy texture to any meal.
When combined, these two elements create a perfect balance of flavors. The spiced taco filling, made with ground beef, corn, tomato sauce, and taco seasoning, delivers a robust, zesty taste, while the cornbread topping provides a soft, slightly sweet contrast. The addition of melted cheese and crispy onions adds another layer of flavor and crunch, making each bite more enjoyable.
Why You’ll Love This Dish
- Quick & Easy: Using store-bought cornbread mix and taco seasoning cuts down on prep time, making this recipe easy to whip up on busy nights.
- One-Pan Meal: Everything is baked in a single dish, reducing cleanup and making it an ideal option for weeknight dinners.
- Customizable: You can switch up the ingredients based on your preferences, making it a versatile meal for everyone.
- Perfect for Meal Prep: It stores well in the fridge and can be reheated, making it a great make-ahead dish.
Serving Suggestions
Cornbread Taco Bake is delicious on its own, but you can elevate it with a variety of toppings and sides to enhance the flavors and textures. Here are some great serving ideas:
Toppings:
- Sour cream: Adds a creamy, tangy element that balances out the spice.
- Guacamole or sliced avocado: Introduces a buttery texture and fresh contrast.
- Fresh cilantro & green onions: Adds a pop of freshness and color.
- Diced tomatoes: Brightens up the dish with a juicy, refreshing taste.
- Sliced jalapeños: For those who love a bit of extra heat.
Side Dishes:
- Mexican Rice: A flavorful and traditional side that pairs well with taco-seasoned beef.
- Refried Beans or Black Beans: Adds protein and a creamy texture to complement the cornbread.
- Tortilla Chips & Salsa: A simple and crunchy side that works well with the casserole.
- Simple Green Salad: Lightens up the meal and provides a refreshing contrast.
Variations and Customization
One of the best things about Cornbread Taco Bake is its versatility. You can easily modify it to fit different dietary needs and flavor preferences.
Meat Substitutions
- Swap the ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
- Use shredded rotisserie chicken for a quicker alternative.
- Try chorizo or seasoned ground pork for a bolder, more complex flavor.
Vegetarian Version
- Replace the ground beef with black beans, pinto beans, or lentils for a protein-packed vegetarian option.
- Add chopped bell peppers, mushrooms, or zucchini to enhance the texture and flavor.
- Use vegetarian taco seasoning to keep it 100% meat-free.
Spice Level Adjustments
- Add diced jalapeños, cayenne pepper, or red pepper flakes to the beef mixture for extra heat.
- Use pepper jack cheese instead of cheddar for a spicy kick.
- Mix in chopped green chiles for a mild but flavorful heat boost.
Cheese Variations
- Monterey Jack or Colby Jack cheese can be used for a milder flavor.
- For an extra gooey and rich texture, try mixing cheddar with a bit of cream cheese.
- Add queso fresco or crumbled cotija as a finishing touch for a more authentic Mexican-inspired flavor.
Storage and Meal Prep Tips
Cornbread Taco Bake is a great meal prep dish since it stores well and reheats beautifully. Here are some storage tips to ensure you get the most out of your leftovers:
Refrigerating:
- Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Freezing:
- Freeze the baked casserole in a freezer-safe dish for up to 3 months.
- To reheat, let it thaw in the fridge overnight, then warm it in the oven at 350°F for 20-25 minutes.
Make-Ahead Instructions:
- You can prepare the taco filling a day in advance and store it in the fridge.
- When ready to bake, simply prepare the cornbread batter, assemble the dish, and bake as usual.
Conclusion:
Cornbread Taco Bake is a crowd-pleasing, easy-to-make comfort food that brings together the best elements of tacos and cornbread in one delicious casserole. Whether you’re making it for a weeknight family meal, a potluck, or a gathering with friends, it’s sure to be a hit.
With its savory, cheesy, and slightly sweet flavors, plus the ability to customize it in numerous ways, this dish is bound to become a regular favorite in your recipe rotation. Serve it with your favorite toppings and sides, and enjoy a warm, hearty meal that’s as easy to make as it is satisfying to eat!