If you’re looking for a hearty, comforting dish that combines the rich, savory flavors of chili with the fluffy, buttery goodness of cornbread, you’ve got to try this Cornbread Chili Casserole Recipe. It’s a delightful crowd-pleaser that manages to be both simple and satisfying, perfect for cozy weeknight dinners or casual gatherings. With layers of seasoned ground beef, chili beans, juicy tomatoes, and gooey cheddar cheese baked beneath a golden cornbread crust, this casserole offers a wonderful balance of textures and flavors that will have you reaching for seconds every time.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are straightforward but essential, each lending its own magic to create the classic taste and comforting texture that make this Cornbread Chili Casserole Recipe so beloved. From the savory beef to the cheesy cornbread topping, every element plays a crucial role.
- Olive oil: For browning the beef evenly and adding a subtle richness.
- Ground beef (1 pound): The hearty base that brings meaty goodness to the casserole.
- Chili beans (1 can, drained): Adds texture, fiber, and that unbeatable bean flavor.
- Diced tomatoes (1 can, 14.5 oz): Juicy acidity balances the richness of the beef.
- Chili seasoning mix (1 packet): A perfect blend of spices that gives the chili its signature warmth.
- Jiffy cornbread mix (1 box): The quick-and-easy shortcut to a moist, tender cornbread topping.
- Milk (1/4 cup): Moistens the cornbread batter for that delicate crumb.
- Egg (1): Binds the cornbread ingredients together beautifully.
- Shredded cheddar cheese (1 cup): Packed into the cornbread and sprinkled on top for gooey cheesy goodness.
How to Make Cornbread Chili Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Start by setting your oven to 375°F (190°C) so it’s ready when you finish assembling the casserole. Properly preheating ensures your cornbread topping bakes perfectly without overcooking or drying out the chili underneath.
Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef
Warm the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef, breaking it up with a spoon, and cook until it’s nicely browned, about 6 to 8 minutes. This step builds the base flavor of your casserole, so take care to get a good sear on that beef.
Step 3: Simmer the Chili Mixture
Stir in the drained chili beans, diced tomatoes, and chili seasoning mix. Let everything simmer together for around 10 minutes, which allows the flavors to meld into a rich, comforting chili that’s bursting with savory goodness.
Step 4: Prepare the Cornbread Batter
While the chili simmers, mix the Jiffy cornbread mix with milk, the egg, and half of your shredded cheddar cheese in a separate bowl. This creates a moist, cheesy batter that will soon bake to a golden crust over your chili.
Step 5: Assemble the Casserole
Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking. Spread the chili mixture evenly across the bottom, then pour the cornbread batter gently over the top. This layered combo ensures every bite has a perfect balance of chili warmth and cornbread softness.
Step 6: Add Cheese and Bake
Sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese on top of the batter, then pop the dish into the oven. Bake for 25 to 30 minutes, until the cornbread is golden and cooked through. This finishing step adds that irresistible melted cheese layer and a crunchy, golden finish.
Step 7: Cool and Serve
Once baked, let the casserole cool for about 5 minutes. This rest time helps it set up, making it easier to slice and serving you a hot, delicious meal with perfectly melded flavors.
How to Serve Cornbread Chili Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
Adding fresh, zesty garnishes can elevate your Cornbread Chili Casserole Recipe to the next level. Think chopped green onions, a dollop of sour cream, or even some diced avocado for creaminess. Fresh cilantro or a squeeze of lime brightens the dish and adds a lovely herbal kick.
Side Dishes
While this casserole is a meal on its own, pairing it with a crisp green salad or some roasted vegetables will round out the plate beautifully. Consider serving with a side of cornbread salad or coleslaw for extra freshness and crunch alongside the warm, hearty casserole.
Creative Ways to Present
Want to impress your guests? Serve individual portions in small ramekins for a charming presentation. Or layer the casserole in clear glass baking dishes to showcase its colorful layers. Another fun twist is to add a topping of crushed tortilla chips or jalapeño slices for an added crunch and heat.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
This Cornbread Chili Casserole Recipe reheats beautifully, making it ideal for leftovers. Store any uneaten portions in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days to keep all those flavors fresh and vibrant.
Freezing
If you want to prep in advance, this casserole freezes well before baking. Assemble it in a freezer-safe dish, cover tightly, and freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, let it thaw overnight in the fridge before baking as directed.
Reheating
To reheat, warm individual servings in the microwave or reheat the entire casserole in a 350°F oven until heated through, usually around 20 minutes. This way, you’ll get that fresh-from-the-oven taste every time.
FAQs
Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a leaner option that works well in the chili mixture. Just be sure to brown it thoroughly to develop flavor.
What if I don’t have Jiffy cornbread mix?
No worries! You can substitute your favorite boxed cornbread mix or even a homemade cornbread batter with similar results.
Can I make this spicy?
Definitely! Add a diced jalapeño to the chili mixture or use a spicy chili seasoning mix to give the casserole a kick.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Traditional Jiffy cornbread mix contains gluten, so for a gluten-free version, use a certified gluten-free cornbread mix and verify all canned goods.
How can I add more vegetables to this casserole?
Mix in diced bell peppers, corn, or zucchini with the chili before baking to boost the veggie content and add even more color and flavor.
Final Thoughts
This Cornbread Chili Casserole Recipe is a true crowd-pleaser that feels like a warm hug on a plate. Its ease of preparation combined with rich, comforting flavors makes it your new go-to for satisfying meals any night of the week. Give it a try—you might just find yourself making it again and again!
Print
Cornbread Chili Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Cornbread Chili Casserole is a hearty and comforting dish combining a savory chili base with a golden, cheesy cornbread topping. Perfect for family dinners, it melds seasoned ground beef, chili beans, and tomatoes with a moist cornbread crust that’s baked to perfection.
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 Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to prepare for baking the casserole.
- Cook Beef: In a large skillet over medium heat, warm the olive oil, then add the ground beef. Cook and stir until the beef is browned and crumbly, about 6-8 minutes.
- Simmer Chili: Add the drained chili beans, diced tomatoes, and chili seasoning mix to the skillet with the beef. Stir everything together and let it simmer gently for 10 minutes to develop the flavors.
- Prepare Cornbread Batter: In a separate bowl, combine the Jiffy cornbread mix, milk, egg, and half of the shredded cheddar cheese. Mix until just combined for a moist batter.
- Assemble Casserole: Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. Spread the chili mixture evenly in the dish, then pour the cornbread batter on top, smoothing it out gently.
- Add Cheese and Bake: Sprinkle the remaining shredded cheddar cheese over the cornbread topping. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until the cornbread is golden brown and cooked through.
- Rest and Serve: Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for about 5 minutes before serving to allow the layers to set.
Notes
- You can substitute ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a leaner version.
- If you prefer a spicier dish, add chopped jalapeños or hot sauce to the chili mixture.
- For a vegetarian option, replace the ground beef with a plant-based meat substitute or extra beans.
- Ensure the cornbread is fully cooked by inserting a toothpick in the center; it should come out clean.
- Leftovers can be stored covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
