Cornbread Taco Bake Recipe

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Cook Time: 30 minutes

Ingredients

This recipe was developed at its original yield. Ingredient amounts are automatically adjusted, but cooking times and steps remain unchanged. Note that not all recipes scale perfectly.

Original recipe (1X) yields 5 servings

• 1 pound ground beef
• 3 tablespoons taco seasoning
• 1 (10 ounce) can diced tomatoes with green chilies (such as Rotel Original)
• 1 (8.75 ounce) can corn, drained
• 1 (15.5 ounce) can chili beans
• 4 ounces sharp Cheddar cheese, shredded
• 1 (8.5 ounce) package cornbread mix
• 1 large egg
• 1/3 cup milk
• Sour cream and chopped green onion for garnish

Directions

Step 1: Gather all ingredients and preheat the oven to 350F (175C).

Step 2: Cook the ground beef in a deep cast iron skillet over medium heat. Break the beef into crumbles as it cooks. Continue cooking until the beef is no longer pink, about 5 to 7 minutes. Drain off any excess grease.

Step 3: Stir in the taco seasoning, diced tomatoes with green chilies, corn, and chili beans. Mix well, and then stir in the shredded Cheddar cheese.

Step 4: In a separate bowl, mix together the cornbread mix, egg, and milk. Stir until smooth.

Step 5: Spread the cornbread batter evenly over the beef mixture in the skillet.

Step 6: Place the skillet in the preheated oven and bake for about 25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cornbread comes out clean.

Step 7: Remove from the oven and let cool slightly. Garnish each serving with a dollop of sour cream and a sprinkle of chopped green onions.

Step 8: Serve immediately and enjoy!

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

• Calories: 720
• Total Fat: 32g (41% Daily Value)
• Saturated Fat: 12g (62% Daily Value)
• Cholesterol: 143mg (48% Daily Value)
• Sodium: 1881mg (82% Daily Value)
• Total Carbohydrate: 65g (24% Daily Value)
• Dietary Fiber: 9g (31% Daily Value)
• Total Sugars: 18g
• Protein: 42g (83% Daily Value)
• Vitamin C: 8mg (9% Daily Value)
• Calcium: 279mg (21% Daily Value)
• Iron: 6mg (35% Daily Value)
• Potassium: 1068mg (23% Daily Value)

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

** Nutrient information is not available for all ingredients. Amount is based on available nutrient data.

The Rich History of Cornbread Taco Bake

The Cornbread Taco Bake is a creative fusion of traditional American cornbread and classic Mexican flavors. Cornbread itself has deep roots in Native American cuisine, where corn was a staple crop long before European settlers arrived. Mexican-inspired taco elementsseasoned ground beef, tomatoes, chilies, and cheesewere gradually incorporated into American kitchens in the 20th century, especially in the Southwestern United States. The combination of cornbread with taco ingredients is a modern twist that reflects the blending of culinary traditions over time.

Regional Characteristics

This dish is most commonly associated with the American Southwest, particularly states like Texas, New Mexico, and Arizona, where both cornbread and Tex-Mex flavors are highly popular. In these regions, cornbread tends to be slightly sweet and moist, providing a perfect contrast to the spicy, savory taco filling. The use of chili beans, green chilies, and sharp cheddar cheese highlights the local preference for bold, robust flavors, while the skillet preparation is a nod to traditional Southwestern cooking methods.

How It Differs from Similar Dishes

While it may resemble a traditional taco casserole or a Mexican shepherds pie, Cornbread Taco Bake is unique in its layered approach. Unlike a typical taco casserole, where tortillas might form the base, this dish uses cornbread as a topping or crust, giving it a golden, slightly sweet exterior. It also differentiates itself from chili-topped cornbread by combining beans, corn, and seasoned meat in a more cohesive bake. The result is a dish that balances textures and flavors in a way that neither tacos nor cornbread alone can achieve.

Where Its Typically Served

Cornbread Taco Bake is often served as a hearty dinner in family homes and potlucks, especially during colder months when comfort food is in high demand. It is also a popular choice for casual gatherings, game-day events, and school or community lunches. Many restaurants in the Southwest and beyond offer it as a comfort-food option, pairing it with fresh garnishes like sour cream, chopped green onions, or a simple side salad to enhance its flavor and presentation.

Interesting Facts

• The dish is highly versatile: vegetarian versions can be made using beans, vegetables, or plant-based meat alternatives instead of beef.
• It is sometimes cooked entirely in a cast iron skillet, which enhances the cornbreads texture and flavor by creating a slightly crispy edge.
• Cornbread Taco Bake is a popular recipe for meal prepping because it reheats well and can be easily portioned for multiple meals.
• The combination of sweet cornbread and spicy taco filling exemplifies the sweet-and-spicy flavor profile common in Southwestern cuisine.
• Despite its modern appearance, the dish reflects centuries of culinary evolution, blending Native American, Mexican, and Southern U.S. influences.

FAQ about Cornbread Taco Bake Recipe

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