When you think of comfort food, what comes to mind? If your taste buds are tingling at the thought of warm, cheesy goodness topped with a golden cornbread crust, then let me introduce you to chili cornbread casserole. The aroma of spices mingling with melted cheese fills the air, making it impossible to resist. This delightful dish is an explosion of flavors that will have you singing its praises after every bite.
Picture this: a chilly evening, snuggled up with loved ones, and a steaming bowl of chili cornbread casserole waiting to be devoured. Gather around the table, where laughter flows as freely as the melted cheese dripping from each serving. This dish is perfect for game nights, cozy family dinners, or whenever you need a hearty pick-me-up. Trust me, your taste buds will thank you for this flavor bomb.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This chili cornbread casserole is incredibly easy to prepare, making meal prep a breeze
- The combination of savory chili and sweet cornbread creates an irresistible flavor profile
- Its vibrant colors and aromas make it visually stunning on any dinner table
- Perfect for gatherings but versatile enough for cozy weeknight dinners
I remember one time when I made chili cornbread casserole for my friend’s potluck. As soon as I set it down on the table, friends gathered like moths to a flame, and within minutes, it was all but gone! The delighted faces and compliments were worth every minute spent preparing it.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
Ground Beef: Choose lean ground beef for a hearty base that won’t leave you feeling too greasy.
Canned Beans: Black beans or kidney beans add protein and texture; rinse well before using.
Canned Tomatoes: Opt for diced tomatoes with green chilies for an extra kick; they provide great flavor.
Chili Powder: Use your favorite blend; it’s essential for that classic chili flavor.
Cheddar Cheese: Shredded sharp cheddar melts beautifully and adds a rich taste to the casserole.
Cornbread Mix: A box mix makes preparation quick and easy; just follow package instructions.
Milk and Eggs: These two are key to making your cornbread fluffy and delicious.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
Prepare Your Oven and Ingredients: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Gather all your ingredients so everything is within reach while cooking.
Sauté the Meat and Vegetables: In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef until it’s no longer pink. Add onions and bell peppers until they’re soft and fragrant.
Add Beans and Tomatoes: Stir in canned beans and tomatoes along with chili powder. Allow this mixture to simmer for about 10 minutes until thickened—your kitchen will smell amazing.
Create the Cornbread Topping: In a separate bowl, combine the cornbread mix with milk and eggs according to package directions. Mix until just combined—don’t overmix!
Assemble Your Casserole: Pour the beef mixture into a greased baking dish. Top evenly with cheese before spreading the cornbread batter over everything like a cozy blanket.
Bake Until Golden Brown: Place the casserole in your preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown on top—check that it’s cooked through with a toothpick test.
Serve hot straight from the oven! Each scoop reveals layers of cheesy chili goodness topped with fluffy cornbread that beckons you back for seconds… or thirds! Enjoy!
This chili cornbread casserole is not just a meal; it’s an experience filled with warmth, laughter, and unforgettable flavors that will keep everyone coming back for more!
You Must Know
- Chili cornbread casserole is a cozy dish that brings warmth on chilly nights
- It’s filling, easy to make, and perfect for feeding a crowd
- The blend of flavors and textures makes it a comforting classic everyone will love
Perfecting the Cooking Process
To achieve perfect results, cook the chili first, then prepare the cornbread batter while it simmers. This timing ensures everything is hot and ready to serve together.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to customize by adding jalapeños for extra heat or cheese for creaminess. You can even swap out ground beef for turkey or beans for a vegetarian option.
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, about 20 minutes.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- To elevate your chili cornbread casserole, consider using homemade chili for freshness
- A dash of cumin can enhance flavor significantly
- Remember to let it cool slightly before slicing; this keeps the layers intact!
Sharing this recipe brings back memories of chilly fall evenings spent with friends around the dinner table, laughing as we devoured this hearty dish together.
FAQ
Can I make chili cornbread casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare it a day in advance and reheat before serving.
What type of cheese works best?
Cheddar cheese is ideal for its melting qualities and robust flavor.
Is this recipe suitable for freezing?
Absolutely! Freeze portions in airtight containers for up to three months.
Chili Cornbread Casserole
Chili cornbread casserole is the ultimate comfort food that combines savory chili and sweet cornbread in one delicious dish. Perfect for chilly evenings, game nights, or family dinners, this hearty casserole oozes melted cheese and bursts with flavor in every bite. Gather around the table with loved ones as you enjoy this warm, comforting meal that’s sure to leave everyone asking for seconds!
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Serves 6
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 1 lb lean ground beef
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, rinsed
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies
- 2 tbsp chili powder
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 box (8.5 oz) cornbread mix
- ⅔ cup milk
- 2 large eggs
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef until no longer pink. Add onions and bell peppers; cook until soft.
- Stir in black beans, diced tomatoes, and chili powder. Simmer for about 10 minutes.
- In a bowl, combine cornbread mix with milk and eggs according to package directions; mix until just combined.
- Pour the beef mixture into a greased baking dish. Top evenly with cheddar cheese and spread cornbread batter over it.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes until golden brown and cooked through.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/6 of the casserole (approx. 300g)
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 720mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 37g
- Fiber: 6g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
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