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Cornbread Taco Bake: A Flavorful Twist on Taco Night

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If you’re looking for a comforting and satisfying dish that combines the flavors of tacos with the heartiness of cornbread, look no further than this Cornbread Taco Bake. This recipe is the perfect way to elevate your taco night with a unique twist. With a cornbread base, seasoned ground beef, a creamy filling, and plenty of melted cheese, this dish is sure to become a family favorite. It’s easy to make and even easier to devour!

Why You’ll Love This Cornbread Taco Bake

  • Ultimate Comfort Food: The combination of cornbread, savory ground beef, and creamy, cheesy goodness makes this dish the epitome of comfort food.
  • Simple Ingredients: You probably have most of these ingredients in your pantry, making this a convenient and budget-friendly meal.
  • Customizable: Add your favorite taco toppings like shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, or sliced olives to make it your own.

Ingredients You’ll Need

  • 7 oz Packet Cornbread Mix: This will form the base of your bake, providing a slightly sweet contrast to the savory taco filling.
  • 1/2 Cup Milk: To mix with the cornbread mix for a smooth batter.
  • 1 Large Egg: Helps bind the cornbread mix together.
  • 1 Pound Ground Beef: The star of the filling, providing protein and flavor.
  • 3 Tablespoons Taco Seasoning: You can use store-bought or homemade taco seasoning for that classic taco flavor.
  • 1/3 Cup Water: To help blend the taco seasoning with the ground beef.
  • 11 oz Can Mexicorn, Drained: Adds a sweet and crunchy texture to the filling.
  • 10 oz Can Rotel, Drained: Provides a tangy and slightly spicy kick to the dish.
  • 2 Cups Sour Cream: Adds creaminess and richness to the bake.
  • 2 Cups Shredded Mexican Cheese Blend (Divided Use): Melty, cheesy goodness is spread throughout the dish.
  • 1/2 Cup Chopped Green Onions: Adds a fresh, zesty flavor to balance the richness.

Optional Toppings

  • Shredded Lettuce: For a crisp and refreshing contrast.
  • Sliced Olives: Adds a salty, briny flavor.
  • Diced Tomatoes: Fresh and juicy, perfect for a burst of freshness.
  • Taco Sauce: A drizzle of taco sauce brings all the flavors together.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Spray a 9×9-inch (or 2 1/2 quart) baking dish with nonstick cooking spray to prevent sticking.

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2. Prepare Cornbread Base: In a mixing bowl, combine the cornbread mix, milk, and egg. Stir until the batter is smooth and well-mixed. Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish and bake for about 15 minutes, or until the cornbread is set and golden brown.

3. Cook Beef: While the cornbread is baking, heat a skillet over medium heat and cook the ground beef until it’s no longer pink. Break up the meat as it cooks to create crumbles. Drain any excess grease from the pan. Add the taco seasoning and water to the beef, stirring to coat the meat evenly. Then, add the drained Mexicorn and Rotel, stirring everything together. Let it simmer for a couple of minutes to blend the flavors.

4. Layer Ingredients: Once the cornbread is done baking, remove it from the oven. Carefully spread the ground beef mixture over the top of the cornbread. In a separate bowl, mix the sour cream with one cup of shredded Mexican cheese blend and the chopped green onions. Gently spread this creamy mixture over the ground beef layer, making sure it’s evenly distributed. Sprinkle the remaining cup of shredded cheese on top.

5. Bake Again: Place the baking dish back in the oven and bake for about 25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the bake is heated through. The cheese on top should be golden and bubbly.

6. Serve: Allow the Cornbread Taco Bake to cool for a few minutes before slicing. Serve with your favorite toppings like shredded lettuce, sliced olives, diced tomatoes, and a drizzle of taco sauce.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

  • Calories: 377 kcal
  • Carbohydrates: 4 g
  • Protein: 19 g
  • Fat: 32 g
  • Sodium: 372 mg
  • Fiber: 1 g
  • Sugar: 3 g

Tips for Success

  • Cornbread Mix: If you prefer a homemade cornbread base, feel free to use your favorite recipe instead of a packet mix.
  • Cheese Options: Experiment with different cheese blends like sharp cheddar, Monterey Jack, or even a spicy pepper jack for extra heat.
  • Sour Cream: If your family isn’t a fan of sour cream, you can skip it in the filling and serve it on the side instead.

Customization Ideas

  • Vegetarian Option: Swap the ground beef for a plant-based meat substitute or a mix of black beans and corn for a vegetarian version.
  • Spice Level: Add more heat with extra taco seasoning, a can of diced green chilies, or a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes.
  • Extra Toppings: For added crunch, top with crushed tortilla chips or a dollop of guacamole.

Conclusion

This Cornbread Taco Bake is a delicious and easy way to bring new life to taco night. The combination of cornbread, seasoned beef, creamy sour cream, and melted cheese is simply irresistible. With just a few simple steps, you can create a comforting meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights, potlucks, or a fun family dinner. Give this recipe a try, and watch it become a regular on your dinner rotation. Enjoy!

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