Cornbread Chili Casserole Recipe
If you are looking for a comforting, crowd-pleasing dish that combines the warm, hearty flavors of chili with the tender, crumbly goodness of cornbread, this Cornbread Chili Casserole Recipe is exactly what you need. It’s an easy-to-make, all-in-one casserole that brings together seasoned ground beef, beans, and tomatoes, topped with a cheesy cornbread crust that bakes to golden perfection. Perfect for family dinners or potlucks, this recipe offers a satisfying mix of spicy, savory, and slightly sweet notes that will have everyone asking for seconds.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this dish is in its simplicity—each ingredient plays an important role in layering the flavors and textures that make this casserole so irresistible. The combination of pantry staples and fresh elements makes it both accessible and satisfying.
- Olive oil: Used to brown the beef evenly while adding a subtle fruity undertone.
- Ground beef: The hearty base that provides rich, meaty flavor and protein.
- Chili beans: Add a creamy texture and a bit of earthy sweetness.
- Diced tomatoes: Bring a juicy, tangy brightness that balances the richness.
- Chili seasoning mix: Packs in that signature chili flavor, layering spices like cumin, paprika, and chili powder.
- Jiffy cornbread mix: A foolproof way to get soft, moist cornbread with just a few additional ingredients.
- Milk: Moistens the cornbread batter and helps create a tender crumb.
- Egg: Provides structure to the cornbread, holding it all together as it bakes.
- Shredded cheddar cheese: Sprinkled inside and on top, it melts into gooey pockets that add richness and a sharp bite.
How to Make Cornbread Chili Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Oven and Brown the Beef
Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Then, heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until it is fully browned, stirring occasionally to break up the meat into evenly cooked crumbles. This step builds the foundation of flavor you want to develop.
Step 2: Add Beans, Tomatoes, and Seasoning
Once the beef is browned, stir in the drained chili beans, diced tomatoes, and chili seasoning mix. Let the mixture simmer gently for about 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to mingle and thicken slightly. You’ll notice the aromas deepening, which is a sure sign that your casserole is coming together beautifully.
Step 3: Prepare the Cornbread Batter
While your chili simmers, mix the Jiffy cornbread mix in a bowl with milk, egg, and half of the shredded cheddar cheese. This simple batter will create a rich, cheesy topping that contrasts delightfully with the savory chili beneath. Stir gently until everything is combined, but don’t overmix or your cornbread can become dense.
Step 4: Assemble the Casserole
Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking. Spread the chili mixture evenly on the bottom of the dish, then pour the cornbread batter on top in an even layer. This layering ensures each bite delivers both hearty chili and tender cornbread.
Step 5: Add Cheese and Bake
Sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese over the cornbread batter. Pop the dish into your preheated oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the cornbread topping turns a gorgeous golden brown and a toothpick inserted comes out clean. Let it cool for 5 minutes before serving—this rest time helps the casserole set perfectly.
How to Serve Cornbread Chili Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
To make your Cornbread Chili Casserole Recipe even more inviting, consider topping it with freshly chopped green onions, a dollop of sour cream, or a handful of sliced jalapeños. These garnishes add pop and freshness, cutting through the richness with bright, cool notes.
Side Dishes
While this casserole is a meal on its own, pairing it with a crisp green salad or roasted vegetables brings a refreshing contrast. Simple steamed broccoli or a tangy coleslaw are also fantastic companions, balancing the warm, hearty flavors with crunchy, fresh textures.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve portions in individual ramekins or a cast iron skillet right at the table, keeping the cozy vibe alive. You could also sprinkle additional cheese and broil for a couple of minutes for a bubbly, crispy top. Making it visually appealing makes the casserole even more special for guests or family.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
After enjoying your Cornbread Chili Casserole Recipe, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh and delicious for up to 3 days, making it a fantastic option for easy next-day meals that still feel homemade with no extra effort.
Freezing
This casserole freezes wonderfully. To freeze, allow it to cool completely, then cover tightly with foil or plastic wrap and place it in the freezer for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating to preserve texture and flavor.
Reheating
To bring leftovers back to life, reheat individual servings in the microwave or warm the entire casserole in a 350°F oven until bubbly and heated through. Adding a sprinkle of fresh cheese before reheating can restore the gooey, comforting feel of the original bake.
FAQs
Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey works well in this Cornbread Chili Casserole Recipe if you prefer a leaner option. Just brown it the same way and adjust seasonings as needed to boost flavor.
Is it possible to make this casserole vegetarian?
Yes, simply substitute the ground beef with plant-based protein or extra beans and vegetables like bell peppers and zucchini. Use vegetable broth and check the seasoning mix for vegetarian-friendly ingredients.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
You can! Swap the Jiffy cornbread mix for a gluten-free cornbread mix and ensure your chili seasoning is gluten-free as well. This way, you keep the dish delicious and safe for gluten-sensitive eaters.
What type of cheddar cheese works best?
A sharp or extra sharp cheddar cheese adds more pronounced flavor, making each cheesy bite stand out. Mild cheddar works too if you prefer a subtler taste, so choose according to your preference.
Can this recipe be doubled or halved?
Yes, this Cornbread Chili Casserole Recipe is very flexible. Simply adjust the ingredient quantities proportionally and use a larger or smaller baking dish as needed. Just keep an eye on baking times, as they might vary slightly.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly joyful about a dish that warms your soul and brings people together, and this Cornbread Chili Casserole Recipe fits that bill perfectly. Easy to prepare yet packed with flavor and texture, it’s a meal that feels like a hug on a plate. I wholeheartedly encourage you to try it at home—you might just find your new favorite comfort food.
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Cornbread Chili Casserole Recipe
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
Description
This Cornbread Chili Casserole is a hearty and comforting dish combining savory seasoned ground beef chili with a fluffy cornbread topping baked to golden perfection. Perfect for cozy family dinners, it features a blend of chili beans, diced tomatoes, and cheese, all layered and baked together for a delicious one-pan meal.
Ingredients
Chili Mixture
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 can (15 oz) chili beans, drained
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 packet chili seasoning mix
Cornbread Topping
- 1 box Jiffy cornbread mix
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1 egg
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese, divided
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) to prepare for baking the casserole.
- Cook the beef: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until it is thoroughly browned, about 6 to 8 minutes, breaking it apart as it cooks.
- Simmer the chili mixture: Stir in the drained chili beans, diced tomatoes, and chili seasoning mix into the skillet with the beef. Let it simmer gently for 10 minutes to meld the flavors.
- Prepare the cornbread batter: In a separate bowl, combine the Jiffy cornbread mix with milk, egg, and half of the shredded cheddar cheese, mixing until just combined.
- Assemble the casserole: Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. Layer the chili mixture evenly on the bottom, then pour the cornbread batter over the top, spreading to cover completely.
- Add the cheese topping and bake: Sprinkle the remaining shredded cheddar cheese over the cornbread batter. Bake in the preheated oven for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the cornbread is golden brown and cooked through.
- Cool and serve: Remove from oven and let the casserole cool for 5 minutes before slicing and serving.
Notes
- You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner version.
- For spicier flavor, add chopped jalapeños or hot sauce to the chili mixture.
- Leftovers store well in the refrigerator up to 3 days and reheat nicely.
- Use a gluten-free cornbread mix if you need a gluten-free version.
- Adding a handful of corn kernels to the chili mixture can add extra texture and sweetness.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
