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Cornbread Chili Casserole

Cornbread Chili Casserole
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This Cornbread Chili Casserole combines the rich, savory flavors of chili with a fluffy, golden cornbread topping to create a comforting and hearty one-dish meal perfect for chilly evenings. Easy to prepare and customizable, it’s ideal for family dinners or casual gatherings, offering a satisfying fusion of protein, fiber, and cheesy goodness.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Chili Base

  • 1 lb ground beef or turkey (can substitute plant-based meat)
  • 1 medium onion, diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans or black beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
  • 2 tbsp chili powder
  • 1 tsp cumin
  • 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
  • Salt and pepper to taste

For the Cornbread Topping

  • 1 box cornbread mix (use gluten-free if desired)
  • 1 cup milk
  • 1 large egg
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or preferred cheese variety)

Instructions

  1. Prepare and Cook the Chili: Brown the ground beef or turkey in a large skillet over medium heat. Add diced onions and garlic and sauté until soft and fragrant. Stir in drained canned beans, diced tomatoes, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Let simmer gently for 10-15 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
  2. Mix the Cornbread Batter: In a separate bowl, combine the cornbread mix with milk and egg according to the package instructions. Stir gently until just combined to maintain a tender, fluffy texture.
  3. Assemble the Casserole: Grease a baking dish and pour the prepared chili evenly into it. Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the chili. Carefully spoon the cornbread batter on top, smoothing it out to cover the chili and cheese completely.
  4. Bake Until Golden: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the casserole for 25-30 minutes until the cornbread topping is golden brown, cooked through, and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. The edges should be bubbling.
  5. Cool Slightly and Serve: Let the casserole rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing to let the layers set. Serve with optional garnishes such as chopped cilantro, green onions, or sour cream for added flavor and creaminess.

Notes

  • Balance the spice by tasting the chili before baking and adjusting seasoning as needed.
  • Use fresh onions, garlic, and good-quality cheese for elevated flavor.
  • Mix the cornbread batter gently to avoid dense topping; a light touch ensures fluffiness.
  • Allow the casserole to rest before slicing to maintain clean portions.
  • For extra texture, sprinkle crushed tortilla chips or crispy onions on top before baking.

Nutrition

Keywords: cornbread casserole, chili casserole, comfort food, one-dish meal, easy dinner, gluten-free casserole, family-friendly dinner

Find it online: https://ninagourmet.com/cornbread-chili-casserole/