Description
A hearty and flavorful Taco Cornbread Bake that combines seasoned ground beef, black beans, Rotel tomatoes with green chiles, and a cheesy cornbread topping baked to golden perfection. This easy-to-make dish offers a delicious, comforting meal with a Mexican-inspired twist, perfect for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Scale
Beef Mixture
- 1 lb lean ground beef
- 1 (1-oz) package taco seasoning
- â…“ cup water
- 1 (10-oz) can Rotel tomatoes and green chiles, undrained
- 1 (15-oz) can black beans, drained and rinsed
- ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese (for mixing)
Cornbread Topping
- 1 (8.5-oz) box Jiffy corn bread mix
- Ingredients needed to prepare the cornbread (as per box directions, typically egg and milk or water)
- Remaining ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese (for topping)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat the oven to 400ºF (204ºC). Lightly spray an 8×8-inch baking dish with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- Cook Beef Mixture: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until it is no longer pink. Drain off any excess fat. Stir in the water and taco seasoning, then simmer the mixture for 5 minutes. Add ½ cup of shredded cheddar cheese, Rotel tomatoes with green chiles, and rinsed black beans. Stir well to combine, then spoon the beef mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish.
- Prepare Cornbread Topping: Prepare the cornbread mix following the package directions, which usually require adding egg and milk or water. Once the batter is ready, spread it evenly over the beef mixture in the baking dish.
- Bake the Dish: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake uncovered for 20 minutes.
- Add Cheese Topping: After 20 minutes, remove the dish from the oven and sprinkle the remaining ½ cup of shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the cornbread layer.
- Melt Cheese: Return the dish to the oven and bake for an additional 3-5 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Remove from the oven and let cool slightly before serving.
Notes
- You can substitute ground turkey for ground beef for a leaner option.
- If you prefer spicier dishes, use hot Rotel tomatoes or add a diced jalapeño to the beef mixture.
- Serve with sour cream, avocado slices, or fresh salsa for added flavor.
- Make sure to drain and rinse black beans to reduce sodium content.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven or microwave.
