Irresistible Chili Cornbread Casserole Recipe to Savor

Chili Cornbread Casserole is like a warm hug on a plate, inviting you to dig in with its tantalizing aroma wafting through the kitchen. Picture this: layers of fluffy cornbread melding with hearty chili, crowned with melted cheese that stretches like a gooey masterpiece. Each bite bursts with flavor, a symphony of spices and textures that dance on your palate.

I remember the first time I made this dish for a family gathering; my relatives were so busy raving about it that they nearly forgot to pass the green beans. Whether it’s game day or a cozy family dinner, this Chili Cornbread Casserole promises to be the star of the show, leaving everyone craving seconds.

I served this delightful casserole at a potluck once, and let’s just say my friends are still asking me for the recipe!

Essential Ingredients

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

• Ground Beef: Use lean ground beef for a healthier option without sacrificing flavor in your casserole.

• Diced Tomatoes: Choose fire-roasted tomatoes for an extra kick and depth of flavor in your chili.

• Chili Beans: Any variety works well; just ensure they are well-drained for optimal texture.

• Cornmeal: Opt for finely ground cornmeal to achieve that perfect cornbread consistency.

• Shredded Cheese: A melty blend of cheddar and Monterey Jack adds creaminess and flavor.

• Onion and Garlic: These aromatics build a flavorful base; sauté them until fragrant for best results.

• Bell Peppers: Add color and sweetness; any color bell pepper works beautifully in this dish.

• Spices (Cumin, Chili Powder): These spices elevate your chili’s flavor profile, giving it warmth and depth.

• Eggs and Milk: Essential ingredients for binding your cornbread together while keeping it moist.

• Cilantro (optional): Fresh cilantro sprinkled on top adds a pop of freshness and color.

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

How to Make Chili Cornbread Casserole

Prepare Your Oven and Pan: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with nonstick spray for easy cleanup.

Sauté Aromatics and Ground Beef: In a large skillet over medium heat, sauté chopped onions, garlic, and bell peppers until soft. Add ground beef, cooking until browned; drain excess fat.

Add Spices and Tomatoes: Stir in diced tomatoes, chili beans, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper into the skillet. Simmer until heated through and flavors meld together.

Create Cornbread Batter: In a separate mixing bowl, whisk together cornmeal, eggs, milk, salt, baking powder, and half of the shredded cheese until smooth.

Layer It Up!: Pour half of the cornbread batter into your prepared baking dish. Spoon beef mixture over it evenly. Top with remaining cornbread batter before sprinkling on the rest of the cheese.

Bake Until Golden Brown: Bake in preheated oven for 30-35 minutes or until golden brown on top. A toothpick should come out clean when inserted into the center.

Serve warm right from the oven; watching it disappear will be half the fun! Enjoy every cheesy bite as you bask in compliments from friends and family alike!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by browning the meat and sautéing the veggies first, then mix everything in a casserole dish before topping it with cornbread batter. This ensures all flavors meld beautifully.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap ground beef for turkey or add jalapeños for heat. You can also use different cheese types to elevate the flavor profile.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warm throughout for best results.

Sharing this dish during my family’s game night always gets rave reviews. The warmth of the meal combined with laughter makes everyone feel right at home.

FAQ

Can I make chili cornbread casserole ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare it a day ahead and bake just before serving.

What can I serve with chili cornbread casserole?

It pairs well with a fresh salad or some garlic bread on the side.

How do I know when my cornbread is done?

Insert a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean when fully baked.

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

📖 Recipe Card

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Chili Cornbread Casserole

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• Author: Jennifer
• Total Time: 50 minutes
• Yield: Serves approximately 8

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Description

Chili Cornbread Casserole is a heartwarming dish that combines layers of fluffy cornbread with hearty chili and gooey melted cheese. This one-pan wonder not only dazzles the taste buds but also brings comfort and joy to any gathering. Perfect for game days or cozy family dinners, it’s sure to be a hit, leaving everyone wanting more.

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Ingredients

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• 1 lb lean ground beef
• 1 can (14.5 oz) fire-roasted diced tomatoes
• 1 can (15 oz) chili beans, drained
• 1 cup finely ground cornmeal
• 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 bell pepper, chopped (any color)
• 2 tsp cumin
• 2 tsp chili powder
• 2 large eggs
• 1 cup milk
• Salt and pepper to taste

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Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. In a skillet over medium heat, sauté onion, garlic, and bell pepper until soft. Add ground beef and cook until browned; drain excess fat.
3. Stir in diced tomatoes, chili beans, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Simmer for about 5 minutes.
4. In a bowl, whisk together cornmeal, eggs, milk, salt, baking powder, and half of the cheese until smooth.
5. Pour half of the cornbread batter into the baking dish. Layer beef mixture on top followed by the rest of the cornbread batter and remaining cheese.
6. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until golden brown on top and a toothpick comes out clean.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 35 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 slice (180g)
• Calories: 360
• Sugar: 4g
• Sodium: 890mg
• Fat: 18g
• Saturated Fat: 8g
• Unsaturated Fat: 8g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 36g
• Fiber: 4g
• Protein: 20g
• Cholesterol: 80mg