Description
Jiffy Cornbread Taco Bake is a delicious, family-friendly casserole that layers seasoned ground beef, cheese, and salsa beneath a fluffy, golden Jiffy cornbread topping. It’s a quick and easy weeknight dinner that blends the flavors of taco night with comforting cornbread in one hearty dish.
Ingredients
Scale
Beef Mixture
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 small onion, diced
- 1 packet taco seasoning
- ½ cup water
- 1 cup salsa
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Cornbread Topping
- 1 box (8.5 oz) Jiffy corn muffin mix
- 1 egg
- â…“ cup milk
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F to ensure it’s ready to bake the dish evenly.
- Cook Beef and Onion: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef and diced onion until the beef is browned and the onion softens, about 6–8 minutes. Drain any excess grease to reduce fat content.
- Season Mixture: Stir in the taco seasoning packet and ½ cup water into the beef and onion mixture. Simmer this combination for 2–3 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
- Add Salsa and Beans: Incorporate 1 cup of salsa and the rinsed black beans into the skillet. Cook for an additional 2 minutes to heat through and combine flavors.
- Layer Beef Mixture: Spread the cooked beef mixture evenly in a greased 9×9-inch or 11×7-inch baking dish to form the casserole base.
- Add Cheese: Sprinkle 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the beef mixture.
- Prepare Cornbread Batter: In a separate bowl, stir together the Jiffy corn muffin mix, 1 egg, and â…“ cup milk just until combined. Do not overmix to keep the cornbread light and fluffy.
- Top and Bake: Pour the cornbread batter evenly over the beef and cheese layer. Place the dish in the oven and bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the cornbread is golden brown and a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
- Cool and Serve: Remove from oven and allow to cool for 5 minutes before slicing and serving. This pause lets the layers set for easier serving.
Notes
- Top with sour cream, chopped cilantro, or jalapeños for extra flavor and garnish.
- Substitute ground turkey or chicken in place of beef for a lighter protein option.
- Use hot salsa or pepper jack cheese if you prefer a spicier dish.
- Ensure to drain the beef well after cooking to reduce grease and calories.
