Main

Delicious Cornbread Chili Casserole Recipe

0 comments

Cornbread Chili Casserole is a delightful fusion of two beloved comfort foods that will warm your heart and satisfy your taste buds. This dish features layers of spicy chili topped with a fluffy cornbread crust, creating a perfect balance of flavors and textures. Whether you’re hosting a game day gathering or looking for an easy weeknight dinner option, this casserole is sure to impress your friends and family. The best part? It’s quick to prepare and can be customized to fit your taste preferences. You can easily swap out ingredients to include your favorite vegetables or proteins. With its rich flavors and hearty texture, this Cornbread Chili Casserole makes a fulfilling meal that everyone will love. Let’s dive in and discover why this recipe is a must-try!

Why You’ll Love This Cornbread Chili Casserole

  • Quick and Easy: Minimal prep time and straightforward steps make this recipe stress-free, even for novice cooks
  • Flavorful and Versatile: Enjoy outstanding flavor with ingredients you can easily customize by adding your favorites or adjusting spices
  • Perfect for Any Occasion: Ideal for casual gatherings, holiday celebrations, or weeknight dinners

Recipe preparation

Ingredients for Cornbread Chili Casserole

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

  • Ground Beef or Turkey: Choose lean ground meat for a healthier option; it provides the protein base for the chili.
  • Canned Beans: Use kidney beans or black beans; they add fiber and richness to the chili.
  • Canned Tomatoes: Diced tomatoes give the dish moisture and acidity; opt for fire-roasted tomatoes for extra flavor.
  • Chili Powder: Essential for flavoring the chili; adjust the amount based on your spice preference.
  • Cornmeal: A key ingredient for the cornbread topping; choose yellow cornmeal for traditional flavor.
  • Milk: Adds moisture to the cornbread; whole milk or buttermilk works best.
  • Cheddar Cheese: Shredded cheese adds creaminess on top when melted; use sharp cheddar for more flavor.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Find your next favorite dish with us!

Decadent Chocolate Blackout Cookies Recipe

How to Make Cornbread Chili Casserole

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a large baking dish with nonstick cooking spray.

Step 2: Cook the Meat

In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef or turkey until fully cooked. Drain excess grease if necessary.

Step 3: Add Vegetables and Spices

Stir in canned beans, diced tomatoes, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Let it simmer for about 10 minutes until heated through.

Step 4: Prepare the Cornbread Topping

In a mixing bowl, combine cornmeal, milk, eggs, baking powder, and half of the shredded cheese until smooth.

Step 5: Assemble the Casserole

Pour the meat mixture into the greased baking dish. Spread the cornbread batter evenly on top of the chili mixture.

Step 6: Bake Until Golden Brown

Bake in preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes until the cornbread topping is golden brown. Sprinkle remaining cheese on top during the last five minutes of baking.

Transfer to plates and drizzle with sauce for the perfect finishing touch.

Serving and storing

Tips and Tricks

Here are some helpful tips to ensure the best results for your dish:

  • Even Cooking: Make sure all ingredients are cut to similar sizes for consistent cooking times
  • Temperature Control: Let ingredients reach room temperature before starting for better results
  • Advanced Technique: For enhanced flavor, try marinating some components overnight before cooking

Discover more ways to satisfy your taste buds!

Easy Chicken Chow Mein Recipe

How to Serve Cornbread Chili Casserole

This Cornbread Chili Casserole is versatile and pairs wonderfully with:

  • Rice or Potatoes: A hearty base that soaks up the delicious sauce.
  • Fresh Salad: Adds a crisp and refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the dish.
  • Crusty Bread: Perfect for enjoying every last drop of the flavorful sauce.

Feel free to pair it with your favorite sides for a personalized meal!

Tips and tricks

Make Ahead and Storage

  • Make Ahead: You can prepare the chili filling in advance. Cook it up to two days ahead, let it cool, then store it in an airtight container in the fridge. The cornbread batter can also be mixed a few hours before baking.
  • Storing: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. For longer storage, you can freeze portions in freezer-safe containers for up to three months.
  • Reheating: To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge if frozen. Warm individual portions in the microwave on medium power for about two minutes, or reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for approximately 20 minutes until heated through.

Don’t stop here! Explore more mouthwatering meals!

thai sweet chilli beef bowls

Suggestions for Cornbread Chili Casserole

While Cornbread Chili Casserole is already a meal in itself, there are plenty of ways to enhance it or serve it alongside other dishes to create a complete and satisfying meal. Here are a few suggestions that will make your meal even more enjoyable:

1. Side Dishes to Complement the Casserole:

  • Green Salad: A fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette pairs perfectly with the richness of the casserole. The crisp, refreshing nature of greens helps balance the warmth and heartiness of the chili. Add some sliced cucumber, cherry tomatoes, and red onions to make the salad more interesting.
  • Garlic Bread or Crusty Bread: If you love bread, a side of garlic bread or a warm, crusty baguette would be a perfect accompaniment. You can use it to soak up any extra chili at the bottom of your casserole dish!
  • Roasted Vegetables: Roasted sweet potatoes, Brussels sprouts, or even a medley of root vegetables like carrots and parsnips will add a lovely caramelized sweetness and extra texture to your meal. The earthiness of roasted vegetables complements the chili and cornbread perfectly.

2. Beverage Pairings:

  • Iced Tea: A chilled glass of unsweetened iced tea or lightly sweetened iced tea works wonderfully with this dish. You can even infuse your iced tea with citrus slices or fresh mint for an added twist.
  • Sparkling Water: For a refreshing and light option, serve sparkling water with a wedge of lemon or lime. The effervescence will help cleanse your palate between bites.
  • Lemonade: A glass of homemade lemonade (or store-bought) is another great beverage option to serve with Cornbread Chili Casserole. The tartness of the lemonade will complement the savory flavors of the chili and cornbread.

3. Make It a Brunch Option:

Cornbread Chili Casserole isn’t just for dinner. You can easily turn it into a hearty brunch dish. Simply prepare a large casserole and serve it with a side of scrambled eggs or a fruit salad. The sweetness of the fruit will balance the savory casserole, making for a delicious, well-rounded brunch.

4. Add Protein Boosters:

If you want to make this dish even heartier, consider adding some extra protein to the chili. You could mix in extra beans or lentils, or add cubed tofu or tempeh for a plant-based protein option. If you’re looking for a meatier version, shredded chicken or turkey breast can also be added to the chili base for an extra boost of protein.

5. Customize the Spices:

The beauty of this dish is that it’s incredibly customizable when it comes to spices. If you enjoy a smoky flavor, add a bit of chipotle chili powder or smoked paprika to your chili. For a zesty twist, try incorporating some lime juice or zest into the cornbread batter or the chili itself. Tailoring the spices to your preference can truly make this casserole your own!

Your next meal is just a click away!

Easy Chili Cheese Dip Recipe

FAQ for Cornbread Chili Casserole :

When it comes to making a recipe as versatile as Cornbread Chili Casserole, it’s natural to have a few questions along the way. Here are some frequently asked questions to help guide you through the cooking process:

1. Can I make the cornbread topping gluten-free?

Yes! You can substitute the all-purpose flour in the cornbread with a gluten-free flour blend. Make sure to check the ingredients in your flour blend to ensure it’s suitable for baking, and you may want to add a bit of xanthan gum to help with structure.

2. Can I make the chili ahead of time?

Absolutely! In fact, chili often tastes even better the next day after the flavors have had time to meld together. You can prepare the chili in advance, store it in the refrigerator, and then add the cornbread topping just before baking.

3. Can I freeze the Cornbread Chili Casserole?

Yes, this casserole freezes well. Let the casserole cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. You can freeze it for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply thaw overnight in the refrigerator and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 20-25 minutes or until heated through.

4. Can I use other beans in this recipe?

Definitely! While kidney and black beans are a classic choice, you can swap in any variety of beans you like. Pinto beans, garbanzo beans, or even white beans work wonderfully in chili. Just make sure to adjust your seasoning accordingly based on the type of beans you use.

5. How do I prevent the cornbread from becoming too dry?

To keep your cornbread moist, don’t overbake it. Check it at the 25-minute mark, and if a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean, it’s ready. You can also make sure to use buttermilk (or a good dairy-free substitute) and melted butter for moisture.

Discover more culinary delights right here!

Easy Chicken Pot Pie Casserole Recipe

Conclusion

Cornbread Chili Casserole is the perfect dish when you want something warm, comforting, and full of flavor. With its hearty chili base and fluffy cornbread topping, it’s a meal that pleases both the taste buds and the stomach. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or preparing a cozy dinner for yourself, this casserole is sure to become a new favorite in your meal rotation.

This recipe is flexible and adaptable, allowing you to make it your own by adding extra spices, veggies, or protein boosters to suit your preferences. Plus, with make-ahead and storage options, it’s an ideal choice for busy families, meal prep, or entertaining guests.

So the next time you’re in the mood for something hearty and comforting, look no further than Cornbread Chili Casserole. We hope you enjoy making and sharing this dish with your loved ones. Happy cooking!

Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon

Cornbread Chili Casserole


5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

  • Author: Jasmine Murphy
  • Total Time: 45 minutes
  • Yield: Serves 8

Description

Cornbread Chili Casserole is the ultimate comfort food, merging the heartiness of chili with a fluffy cornbread topping. This dish is perfect for family dinners or gatherings, providing a satisfying meal that’s easy to prepare. With layers of spicy chili made from lean ground meat, beans, and tomatoes, all crowned with a golden cornbread crust, this casserole offers a delightful blend of flavors and textures. Customize it to suit your taste by adding your favorite veggies or adjusting the spices. This recipe is not only quick to whip up but also ensures everyone at the table leaves happy and full.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 lb ground beef or turkey
  • 1 can (15 oz) kidney or black beans
  • 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
  • 2 tablespoons chili powder
  • 1 cup cornmeal
  • 1 cup milk
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a large baking dish.
  2. Brown the ground meat in a skillet over medium heat; drain excess grease.
  3. Stir in canned beans, diced tomatoes, chili powder, salt, and pepper; let simmer for 10 minutes.
  4. In a bowl, mix cornmeal, milk, eggs, baking powder, and half of the cheese until smooth.
  5. Layer the meat mixture into the baking dish and spread cornbread batter on top.
  6. Bake for 25-30 minutes until golden brown; add remaining cheese during the last five minutes.

Notes

For added flavor, consider using fire-roasted tomatoes or adding jalapeños for heat.

You can prep the chili filling up to two days in advance for convenience.

  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Category: Main
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 piece (approx. 200g)
  • Calories: 380
  • Sugar: 4g
  • Sodium: 720mg
  • Fat: 20g
  • Saturated Fat: 9g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 10g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 34g
  • Fiber: 6g
  • Protein: 20g
  • Cholesterol: 65mg

Leave a Comment

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

*

Recipe rating 5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star