Go Back
At its core, the Savory Cornbread Taco Bake is a dish that combines the rich textures of cornbread with the vibrant tastes of taco ingredients. Imagine a warm, golden cornbread crust cradling a savory filling of seasoned ground meat, beans, and corn, all topped with melty cheese and your choice of fresh toppings. This dish is a celebration of flavors that can transport you to the heart of Mexican and Southern cuisine in every bite.

Cornbread Taco Bake

Discover the Savory Cornbread Taco Bake, a delicious fusion of comforting cornbread and zesty taco flavors that’s perfect for any occasion. This recipe combines seasoned ground meat, beans, and cheese under a golden cornbread crust, making it a satisfying meal for family dinners or gatherings. Plus, it's customizable for various dietary preferences. Dive into this crowd-pleaser that's as easy to make as it is to enjoy!

Ingredients
  

1 lb ground beef or turkey

1 packet taco seasoning

1 cup water

1 can (15 oz) black beans, rinsed and drained

1 cup corn (canned or frozen)

1 cup salsa

2 cups shredded cheddar cheese

1 box (8.5 oz) cornbread mix

1 egg

1/3 cup milk

1/2 tsp garlic powder

1/2 tsp cumin

Optional toppings: sour cream, sliced jalapeños, chopped cilantro, diced tomatoes, avocado

Instructions
 

Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).

    Cook the Meat: In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef or turkey until fully cooked, breaking it up as it cooks. Drain excess fat if necessary.

      Add Seasoning: Stir in the taco seasoning and water into the skillet. Cook until the mixture thickens (about 5 minutes).

        Mix in Beans & Corn: Add the black beans, corn, and salsa to the meat mixture. Stir until everything is well combined, and let it simmer for an additional 2–3 minutes.

          Prepare the Cornbread Batter: In a separate bowl, prepare the cornbread mix according to package instructions. Add in the egg, milk, garlic powder, and cumin, mixing until smooth.

            Layer the Bake: In a greased 9x13 inch baking dish, pour the meat and bean mixture evenly across the bottom. Layer 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese on top of the meat mixture. Then carefully pour the cornbread batter over the cheese, spreading it evenly to cover.

              Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes or until the cornbread topping is golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the cornbread comes out clean.

                Add More Cheese: In the last 5 minutes of baking, sprinkle the remaining cheese over the top and return to the oven until melted and bubbly.

                  Serve: Once the bake is done, let it cool for about 5 minutes. Serve warm, topped with optional ingredients like sour cream, sliced jalapeños, cilantro, diced tomatoes, or avocado.

                    Prep Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 50 minutes | Servings: 6-8