Hearty American Cornbread Chili Casserole with Cheddar Crumble
Dive into this rich, savory dish of spiced chili topped with a crumbly cheddar cornbread that adds a perfect contrast of textures.
Preparation
Get these tasks done before you start cooking.
Preparing the Chili Base
- 1
Brown the beef
In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef until cooked through.
- 2
Sauté vegetables
Add the onion, bell pepper, and garlic. Cook until the vegetables are softened.
- 3
Add beans and spices
Stir in the kidney beans, tomatoes, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Let simmer for 15 minutes.
Tip: For an extra kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the chili base.
Preparing the Cornbread Batter
- 1
Mix dry ingredients
In a bowl, whisk together the cornmeal, flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
Tip: Ensure the chili is not too liquidy before adding the cornbread topping.
- 2
Add wet ingredients
Add the milk, eggs, and melted butter. Whisk until combined.
- 3
Fold in cheese
Fold in the cheddar cheese gently until just mixed.
How to Make Hearty American Cornbread Chili Casserole with Cheddar Crumble
Total time: 2 h · Yields 6 servings
- 1
Baking the Casserole
Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Spread the chili in a 9x13 inch baking dish. Pour the cornbread batter evenly over the top.
- 2
Adding the Cheese Crumble
In a small bowl, combine panko breadcrumbs, cheddar, and melted butter. Sprinkle over the cornbread batter.
- 3
Final Bake
Bake for 25–30 minutes or until the cornbread is golden and fully set.
Chef's Tips
Frequently asked questions
Can I use another type of meat?
Yes, ground turkey or chicken works well as a lighter option.
How long can I store leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Can I make this dish ahead?
Absolutely, you can prepare the chili a day in advance, refrigerate it, and add the cornbread topping just before baking.
Can this casserole be frozen?
Yes, freeze it unbaked and covered for up to 2 months. Bake from frozen or thaw in the fridge overnight.
How can I make this gluten-free?
Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free baking blend and ensure the rest of the ingredients are certified gluten-free.
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