Name: Cornbread Taco Bake
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 7-ounce packet cornbread mix; ½ cup milk; 1 large egg; 1 pound ground beef; 3 tablespoons taco seasoning (or 1 packet); ⅓ cup water; 11-ounce can Mexicorn, drained; 10-ounce can Rotel, drained; 2 cups sour cream; 2 cups shredded Mexican cheese blend (divided use); ½ cup chopped green onions; Optional Toppings:; Shredded lettuce; Sliced olives; Diced tomatoes; Taco sauce

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Comforting and filling: The combination of cornbread and taco flavors makes this a satisfying meal.
Easy to prepare: With simple ingredients and straightforward instructions, it’s a breeze to make.
Customizable: Add your favorite taco toppings, such as lettuce, olives, or taco sauce, for added flavor.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

7-ounce packet cornbread mix
½ cup milk
1 large egg
1 pound ground beef
3 tablespoons taco seasoning (or 1 packet)
⅓ cup water
11-ounce can Mexicorn, drained
10-ounce can Rotel, drained
2 cups sour cream
2 cups shredded Mexican cheese blend (divided use)
½ cup chopped green onions

Optional toppings:

Shredded lettuce
Sliced olives
Diced tomatoes
Taco sauce

Directions

Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 350°F. Spray a 9×9-inch (or 2 ½ quart) baking dish with nonstick cooking spray.
Make the cornbread base: Mix cornbread mix, milk, and egg in a bowl until combined. Pour into the prepared baking dish and bake for 15 minutes.
Prepare the beef filling: While the cornbread bakes, cook the ground beef in a skillet until no longer pink, draining any excess grease. Add taco seasoning, water, Mexicorn, and Rotel, stirring well. Simmer for a few minutes.
Assemble the casserole: Once the cornbread is done, remove it from the oven and cover with the beef mixture. In a separate bowl, combine sour cream, one cup of shredded cheese, and green onions. Spread this mixture over the beef layer.
Bake the casserole: Sprinkle the remaining cheese over the top and bake for another 25 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Serve: Let it cool for a few minutes, then slice and top with your favorite toppings like lettuce, olives, tomatoes, and taco sauce.

Servings and Timing

Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 40 minutes
Total time: 50 minutes
Servings: 8 servings

Variations

Swap the beef: Use ground turkey, chicken, or even vegetarian crumbles for a lighter version.
Add extra toppings: Top with jalapeños, salsa, or cilantro for extra flavor.
Spicy twist: Use a spicier taco seasoning or add hot sauce to the beef mixture for a kick.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat in the microwave or in the oven at 350°F for about 15 minutes until warmed through.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of cornbread mix?

Yes, feel free to use any cornbread mix you prefer. Follow the instructions on the package for best results.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the casserole in advance and refrigerate it until ready to bake. Just add a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

Can I freeze this casserole?

Yes, this casserole freezes well. Assemble the casserole, but do not bake. Cover tightly with plastic wrap and foil and freeze for up to 3 months. Bake from frozen for 45-50 minutes.

Can I make this casserole spicier?

Yes, add more taco seasoning, some chopped jalapeños, or hot sauce to the beef mixture for extra heat.

Can I add beans to this casserole?

Yes, black beans or refried beans can be added to the beef mixture for additional texture and flavor.

Can I use a different cheese?

Yes, feel free to swap the Mexican cheese blend with cheddar, Monterey Jack, or any cheese of your choice.

What is Mexicorn?

Mexicorn is a canned corn product that includes diced red and green bell peppers. If you can’t find it, use regular canned corn and add some chopped peppers.

Can I use a different topping?

Yes, you can top this casserole with any of your favorite taco toppings, such as sour cream, guacamole, or salsa.

Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Yes, substitute the ground beef with plant-based crumbles or beans for a vegetarian version.

Can I use a larger baking dish?

If you don’t have a 9×9-inch dish, you can use a 9×13-inch dish, but the layers will be thinner. Adjust the baking time as needed.

Conclusion

This Cornbread Taco Bake is a flavorful and easy casserole that’s perfect for busy nights or casual get-togethers. With its savory layers of cornbread, seasoned beef, and cheesy goodness, it’s a dish that everyone will love. Customize it with your favorite toppings, and enjoy a meal that’s quick, filling, and absolutely delicious.

Cornbread Taco Bake

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Author: Chef Sara
Total Time: 50 minutes
Yield: 8 servings

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Description

This Cornbread Taco Bake is a hearty, flavorful casserole with a delicious cornbread base topped with seasoned ground beef, Mexicorn, sour cream, and melted cheese. A quick and easy dish perfect for family dinners or potlucks, this meal is fully customizable and sure to please everyone at the table.

Instructions

Preheat the oven: Set the oven to 350°F. Spray a 9×9-inch (or 2 ½ quart) baking dish with nonstick cooking spray.
Make the cornbread base: Mix cornbread mix, milk, and egg in a bowl until combined. Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and bake for 15 minutes.
Prepare the beef filling: While the cornbread bakes, cook the ground beef in a skillet until browned and no longer pink. Drain excess grease. Add taco seasoning, water, Mexicorn, and Rotel. Stir well and let simmer for a few minutes.
Assemble the casserole: Once the cornbread is done, remove it from the oven and cover with the beef mixture. In a separate bowl, mix sour cream, 1 cup shredded cheese, and green onions. Spread this mixture evenly over the beef layer.
Bake the casserole: Sprinkle the remaining cheese on top and bake for another 25 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Serve: Let the casserole cool for a few minutes, then slice and top with your favorite taco toppings like lettuce, olives, tomatoes, and taco sauce.

Notes

Swap the Beef: For a lighter version, use ground turkey, chicken, or vegetarian crumbles.
Extra Toppings: Feel free to add jalapeños, salsa, or cilantro for extra flavor.
Spicy Twist: Use spicy taco seasoning or add hot sauce to the beef mixture for a kick.

Prep Time: 10 minute
Cook Time: 40 minutes
Category: Casserole, Dinner, Comfort Food
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American, Tex-Mex