Cozy Chili Cornbread Casserole: A Hearty Delight

There’s something magical about a warm, cheesy chili cornbread casserole that invites you in like an old friend. Imagine the rich scent of spicy chili mingling with the sweet aroma of freshly baked cornbread wafting through your kitchen, each bite bursting with hearty goodness and tantalizing textures. You can practically hear your taste buds cheering as they dive into this savory dish.

This recipe is not just food; it’s a hug on a plate, perfect for chilly evenings or family gatherings. Picture yourself sharing stories over this delightful casserole, laughter echoing in the air while everyone indulges in its comforting warmth. Trust me; this dish will have your loved ones requesting seconds faster than you can say “pass the chili cornbread casserole!”

I remember the first time I made this dish; my friends couldn’t stop raving about how delicious it was. We devoured it so quickly that I barely had time to grab a second helping!

Essential Ingredients

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

• Ground Beef: I prefer using lean ground beef for less grease, but turkey works great too.

• Canned Chili Beans: Choose your favorite variety; spicy or mild beans add depth to the flavor.

• Chili Powder: This is where the magic happens! Use good quality chili powder for the best taste.

• Sweet Corn: Fresh or canned corn adds sweetness and texture to complement the spiciness.

• Shredded Cheese: Opt for sharp cheddar cheese to give the dish a robust flavor that melts beautifully.

• Cornbread Mix: A convenient option that saves time; just follow package instructions for best results.

• Milk and Eggs: Essential for making that cornbread fluffy and light—don’t skip these!

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

Let’s Make it Together

Preheat and Prep: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Grease a large baking dish with cooking spray and set aside. Gather all your ingredients so you can work efficiently.

Sauté the Meat: In a skillet over medium heat, cook 1 pound of ground beef until browned. Drain excess fat, then stir in 1 can of chili beans and 1 tablespoon of chili powder until combined.

Add Corn and Cheese: Mix in 1 cup of sweet corn and half of the shredded cheese into the beef mixture. Let everything meld together for about five minutes on low heat until warmed through.

Prepare Cornbread Batter: In a separate bowl, combine cornbread mix according to package instructions. Add milk and eggs, whisking until smooth and creamy—no lumps allowed!

Layer It Up!: Pour half of the cornbread batter into your greased baking dish. Spread evenly, then layer in the beef mixture followed by remaining batter on top. Sprinkle with leftover cheese.

Bake It Perfectly!: Bake in preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown on top. You’ll know it’s ready when it smells heavenly and is puffed up!

Once out of the oven, let it cool slightly before serving this delightful chili cornbread casserole. Serve warm with toppings like sour cream or sliced jalapeños if you’re feeling adventurous! Enjoy every cheesy bite as you relish those comforting flavors that will have everyone asking for more!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by cooking the chili first, allowing flavors to meld, then prepare the cornbread mix while it simmers. This saves time and ensures everything is hot when served.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap in different beans or add extra veggies like bell peppers for a colorful twist. You can even sprinkle cheese on top before baking for an extra layer of flavor.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in the microwave or oven until heated through, ensuring you don’t dry it out.

Cooking this dish reminds me of family gatherings where laughter and good food were abundant. It’s not just a meal; it’s a warm hug on a plate.

FAQ

Can I use frozen ingredients in my chili cornbread casserole?

Yes, frozen vegetables or beans work great and save prep time.

What can I serve with this chili cornbread casserole?

Pair it with a fresh salad or avocado slices for added freshness.

How long does it take to bake the casserole?

Bake at 400°F for about 25-30 minutes until golden brown on top.

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Chili Cornbread Casserole

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Indulge in the warmth of a Chili Cornbread Casserole, where spicy chili meets sweet cornbread in a delightful, cheesy embrace.

• Author: Jennifer
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: Serves 8
• Category: Main
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 lb lean ground beef
• 1 can (15 oz) chili beans
• 1 tbsp chili powder
• 1 cup sweet corn (fresh or canned)
• 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 1 box cornbread mix (approx. 15 oz)
• 2/3 cup milk
• 2 large eggs

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Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C) and grease a large baking dish.
2. In a skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef; drain excess fat. Stir in chili beans and chili powder until well combined.
3. Add sweet corn and half of the cheese to the beef mixture; warm through on low heat.
4. In a separate bowl, prepare cornbread mix according to package instructions; whisk in milk and eggs until smooth.
5. Pour half of the cornbread batter into the baking dish, layer with beef mixture, top with remaining batter and cheese.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes until golden brown. Let cool slightly before serving.

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 slice (approx. 180g)
• Calories: 320
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 680mg
• Fat: 16g
• Saturated Fat: 7g
• Unsaturated Fat: 8g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 30g
• Fiber: 4g
• Protein: 18g
• Cholesterol: 80mg