Chili Cheese Cornbread combines the rich, savory taste of chili with the moist, fluffy texture of cornbread, topped with melted cheddar cheese. It’s a perfect one-dish meal that delivers comfort and satisfaction in every bite.
The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity and heartiness. Whether you’re enjoying it on a chilly evening or serving it to family and friends, this recipe is guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser. With layers of spicy chili and cheesy cornbread, it’s a meal everyone will love.
Full recipe:
Ingredients:
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1 lb. ground beef
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1 onion, chopped
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1 (15 oz) can of kidney beans, drained and rinsed
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1 (15 oz) can of black beans, drained and rinsed
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1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes
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1 packet chili seasoning mix
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1 (8.5 oz) box cornbread mix
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1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
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1/2 cup milk
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1 egg
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1 tablespoon olive oil
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Salt and pepper to taste
Directions:
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Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
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Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and ground beef, cooking until browned and crumbled. Drain excess fat.
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Add the chili seasoning mix, diced tomatoes, kidney beans, and black beans to the skillet. Stir to combine and simmer for about 10-15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
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While the chili is simmering, prepare the cornbread batter according to the package instructions, adding milk and an egg.
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Transfer the chili mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Spread the cornbread batter evenly over the chili mixture.
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Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese on top of the cornbread.
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Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the cornbread is golden brown and a toothpick comes out clean from the cornbread.
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Let cool for a few minutes before serving.
Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 40 minutes | Total Time: 55 minutes
Kcal: 420 kcal | Servings: 6 servings
The Versatility of Chili Cheese Cornbread
One of the most appealing aspects of Chili Cheese Cornbread is its versatility. You can easily adjust the recipe to suit your preferences or dietary restrictions. For example, if you prefer a vegetarian version, you can swap out the ground beef for plant-based protein like lentils, tofu, or tempeh. If you’re in the mood for something spicier, you can add jalapeños or chili peppers to the chili for a fiery kick.
Cornbread itself is a blank canvas, making it a perfect base for all sorts of variations. You can experiment by adding herbs like thyme, rosemary, or oregano to the cornbread batter, or even sprinkle in some diced bell peppers or onions for extra flavor and color. The cheddar cheese topping is another area where you can get creative. If you’re not a fan of cheddar, try swapping it for a blend of your favorite cheeses, such as Monterey Jack or pepper jack, for a different flavor profile.
A Perfect Meal for Busy Weeknights
Weeknight dinners often require a balance between speed and flavor, and Chili Cheese Cornbread hits the mark perfectly. It’s an all-in-one dish that saves time and minimizes cleanup, making it ideal for busy evenings. The chili and cornbread cook together in one dish, so there’s no need to worry about multiple pots and pans. Just prepare the chili, layer on the cornbread, top with cheese, and bake – it’s that simple.
This recipe also has the advantage of being easy to make in large batches, which is especially helpful if you’re feeding a family or hosting a gathering. Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator and reheated the next day, making it a great option for meal prep or quick lunches. It’s the kind of dish that gets better with time, as the flavors have a chance to meld together overnight.
Comfort Food for Any Occasion
Chili Cheese Cornbread is more than just a weeknight dinner – it’s the kind of comfort food that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a casual dinner party, attending a potluck, or enjoying a cozy meal at home, this dish will surely be a hit. It’s hearty enough to serve as a main course, but it also pairs beautifully with a simple side salad or some roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
This recipe also works well for a variety of dietary needs. You can easily make it gluten-free by choosing a gluten-free cornbread mix or using a homemade gluten-free cornbread recipe. For those following a low-carb or keto diet, consider making a low-carb chili and using a cauliflower-based cornbread substitute. The adaptability of this dish makes it suitable for different lifestyles and dietary preferences.
Perfect for Winter and Fall
There’s something about a warm bowl of chili and cornbread that makes it perfect for the cooler months. As the temperature drops, comfort food becomes even more appealing. Chili Cheese Cornbread is ideal for winter or fall, offering a rich, warming meal that satisfies both your hunger and your craving for something cozy. The hearty chili base is filling and comforting, while the cornbread adds a deliciously soft and cheesy topping that’s sure to bring joy to your taste buds.
When the weather outside is chilly, this dish becomes a staple in many homes. The deep, savory flavors of the chili combined with the lightness of the cornbread are the perfect balance to ward off the cold. Pair it with a warm beverage like a mug of hot cocoa or a glass of red wine for an extra dose of comfort.
Budget-Friendly and Family-Friendly
In addition to being delicious, Chili Cheese Cornbread is an incredibly budget-friendly meal. The ingredients are simple and affordable, making it accessible to a wide range of households. Ground beef, beans, and cornbread mix are all inexpensive staples that can be found at any grocery store, and many of them are pantry staples you may already have on hand.
This dish is also family-friendly, making it a great option for households with picky eaters. The mild, comforting flavors of chili and cornbread are usually a hit with children and adults alike. You can even involve the whole family in the preparation process – kids will love helping to layer the chili and cornbread, and everyone will enjoy the delicious meal that results.
Adding Toppings and Sides for Extra Flavor
While Chili Cheese Cornbread is already a complete meal, there are plenty of ways to elevate it with extra toppings and sides. For a refreshing contrast to the rich chili, serve the dish with a crisp green salad or some sliced avocado. Sour cream, salsa, or a sprinkle of fresh cilantro can add extra flavor and texture on top of the cornbread.
For a more decadent twist, try adding a dollop of guacamole, a drizzle of hot sauce, or even a handful of crumbled tortilla chips for a bit of crunch. These additions take the dish to the next level and allow you to customize it to your personal taste. The best part is that all of these toppings can be added at the table, so everyone can build their own perfect bowl.
How to Make Chili Cheese Cornbread Ahead of Time
If you’re planning ahead for a busy week, Chili Cheese Cornbread is a fantastic dish to prepare in advance. You can make the chili portion ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to three days. The cornbread batter can also be prepared and stored in the fridge for a day or two. When you’re ready to serve, simply assemble the chili and cornbread in the baking dish, top with cheese, and bake. This method saves you time and ensures that you’ll have a hot, comforting meal with minimal effort.
Another option is to prepare the entire dish and freeze it. To freeze, simply assemble the chili and cornbread in a freezer-safe dish, top with cheese, and wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. When you’re ready to eat, thaw the dish overnight in the fridge and bake as directed. This makes Chili Cheese Cornbread a great option for meal prep or for keeping on hand for unexpected guests.
Conclusion: A Classic Dish for All to Enjoy
Chili Cheese Cornbread is the ultimate comfort food that combines savory chili with the soft, cheesy cornbread we all know and love. It’s easy to make, budget-friendly, and versatile, making it the perfect addition to any meal rotation. Whether you’re cooking for a family, hosting a dinner party, or simply craving something hearty, this dish delivers on flavor, satisfaction, and warmth. Plus, it’s highly adaptable, allowing you to experiment with different flavors and dietary preferences.
This dish is sure to become a family favorite in no time, providing a meal that everyone will enjoy. It’s the perfect comfort food for cold nights, busy weeknights, or any time you want to indulge in a hearty, home-cooked meal. Don’t be surprised if it becomes your go-to recipe for feeding a crowd or for satisfying those cravings for something hearty and cheesy. Chili Cheese Cornbread truly is a classic that will never go out of style.