Cornbread Taco Bake

Cornbread taco bake combines the flavors of a classic taco with the sweetness of cornbread for a hearty crowd-pleaser. It’s like a taco bowl, but scaled up for parties, potlucks and family dinners. And thanks to store-bought shortcuts like taco seasoning and corn muffin mix, it’s incredibly quick to prepare.

Keep it simple and kid-friendly with just taco meat, cheese and cornbread, or add your favorite taco toppings for extra flavor. It’s also versatile, letting you customize the recipe to fit your family’s tastes by swapping ground beef for turkey or chicken, using homemade taco seasoning or adding jalapenos for a spicier version. For more ways to mix up Taco Tuesdays, check our other taco casserole recipes

Ingredients for Cornbread Taco Bake

• Ground beef: The beef provides a rich and hearty base for the casserole, bringing essential protein and a savory flavor that complements the taco seasoning.
• Corn: Adds sweetness and texture to the casserole, balancing the savory elements of the dish. This recipe calls for canned corn, but feel free to substitute 1-3/4 cups of fresh or frozen corn.
• Tomato sauce: The slightly acidic tomato sauce infuses the casserole with a tangy richness and helps to bind the ingredients together.
• Green pepper: Contributes a fresh, slightly peppery flavor and a bit of crunch without heat, enhancing the overall texture.
• Taco seasoning: This blend packs a punch of classic taco flavors, including cumin, chili powder and garlic. For ease, use a packet of store-bought taco seasoning, or mix up a batch of homemade taco seasoning.
• Cornbread/muffin mix: The cornbread mix creates a fluffy topping that pairs perfectly with the savory filling, adding a comforting and slightly sweet contrast.
• French-fried onions: The onions add a crunchy texture and irresistible flavor to this taco bake with cornbread.
• Cheddar cheese: Cheese melts into the cornbread topping to make each bite gooey and creamy.

Directions

Step 1: Cook the beef and vegetables

Sarah Tramonte for Taste of Home

Preheat the oven to 400°F. In a large skillet, cook the beef over medium heat until it’s no longer pink, breaking it into crumbles. Drain the grease, then stir in the corn, tomato sauce, water, green pepper and taco seasoning. Spoon the mixture into a greased 2-quart baking dish.

Step 2: Make the cornbread topping

Sarah Tramonte for Taste of Home

Prepare the cornbread mix according to the package directions. Stir in half the onions, then spread the batter over the beef mixture.

Editor’s Tip: Ensure the cornbread mix is spread evenly so it cooks thoroughly.

Step 3: Bake the casserole

Sarah Tramonte for Taste of Home

Bake, uncovered, for 20 minutes. Sprinkle with cheese and the remaining onions, and bake until the cheese is melted and a toothpick inserted into the cornbread layer comes out clean, three to five minutes longer.

Sarah Tramonte for Taste of Home

Cornbread Taco Bake Variations

• Add a spicy kick: Add diced jalapenos or cayenne pepper to the beef mixture for extra spice.
• Go lean: Substitute the ground beef with ground chicken or ground turkey for a lighter option.
• Make it vegetarian: Use a plant-based meat alternative or black beans instead of meat.
• Try other cheeses: Try using Monterey Jack or pepper jack cheese for a different flavor profile.
• Jazz up the filling: Additional ingredients like sliced black olives, chopped green chiles, diced onion, sliced green onions or black beans can make it feel more like your favorite taco. You can also boost the flavor with extra seasonings such as smoky ground cumin, garlic powder, oregano or paprika.

How to Store Cornbread Taco Bake

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days or frozen for up to three months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight, then reheat at 350° until warmed, 20 to 25 minutes.

Can you make cornbread taco bake ahead of time?

You can assemble this taco cornbread bake casserole up to a day in advance. Cover and store it in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to bake it, let it sit at room temperature for 30 minutes before baking as directed.

Cornbread Taco Bake Tips

Sarah Tramonte for Taste of Home

Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef?

Ground turkey is a leaner alternative that works well in this recipe. Ground chicken is another option.

What can I serve with cornbread taco bake?

This dish pairs well with a simple green salad or chips and guacamole.

Can I make cornbread taco bake in a slow cooker?

While this recipe is designed for baking, you can adapt it for a slow cooker by cooking the beef mixture on the stovetop first, then layering it with the cornbread batter in the slow cooker and cooking on low heat for four to six hours.