Few dishes are as cozy and satisfying as a warm, hearty Chili Cornbread Casserole. It’s the ultimate comfort food, combining spicy, savory chili with a tender, golden cornbread topping. Perfect for weeknight dinners, game days, or family gatherings, this dish is easy to make, packed with flavor, and sure to become a family favorite.
With simple pantry ingredients and straightforward steps, even beginner cooks can whip up this delicious casserole. It’s hearty, flavorful, and wonderfully forgiving—just mix, bake, and enjoy the comforting aroma that fills your kitchen.
Recipe Info
| Field | Info |
|---|---|
| Category | Dinner / Casserole |
| Prep Time | 15 minutes |
| Cook Time | 35 minutes |
| Servings | 6–8 servings |
| Calories | ~350 kcal per serving |
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the chili:
- 1 lb ground beef or turkey
- 1 small onion, diced
- 1 green bell pepper, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (15 oz) can kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 (15 oz) can diced tomatoes
- 1 cup corn kernels (fresh, canned, or frozen)
- 2 tablespoons chili powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For the cornbread topping:
- 1 cup cornmeal
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 cup milk
- 2 large eggs
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
Step-By-Step Instructions
- Preheat the oven
Preheat to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. - Cook the chili
In a large skillet, brown the ground meat over medium heat. Add onion, bell pepper, and garlic, cooking until softened. Stir in beans, diced tomatoes, corn, chili powder, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 10 minutes. - Prepare cornbread batter
In a bowl, whisk together cornmeal, flour, baking powder, and salt. In a separate bowl, beat eggs with milk and melted butter. Combine wet and dry ingredients until just mixed. - Assemble the casserole
Pour chili into the prepared baking dish. Spread cornbread batter evenly over the top. Sprinkle cheddar cheese over the batter if desired. - Bake
Bake uncovered for 30–35 minutes, until the cornbread is golden and set in the center. A toothpick inserted into the cornbread should come out clean. - Cool and serve
Allow to rest for 5–10 minutes before serving. Scoop into bowls and enjoy warm.
Helpful Notes & Tips
- Adjust spice: Add cayenne or hot sauce for a spicier version.
- Thicker chili: Simmer a few extra minutes before topping with cornbread to avoid a watery casserole.
- Storage: Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container up to 4 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave.
Recipe Variations
- Vegetarian version: Substitute beans, corn, and veggies for the meat.
- Cheesy delight: Add extra shredded cheese between chili and cornbread layers.
- Protein swap: Use shredded chicken or sausage instead of ground beef.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve with a side of sour cream, sliced avocado, or fresh cilantro.
- Pair with a simple green salad for a complete meal.
- Great for game days—serve with tortilla chips for dipping.
Conclusion
This Chili Cornbread Casserole is pure comfort in a dish. With its hearty chili base, golden cornbread topping, and cozy flavors, it’s perfect for sharing with family and friends. Bake it fresh, savor the warmth, and enjoy every comforting bite.