Chili with Cornbread Topping Recipe

Introduction

Chili with Cornbread Topping is a deliciously comforting and hearty dish that brings together two beloved comfort foods in one pot. The rich, savory chili is filled with flavorful beans, vegetables, and spices, while the cornbread topping adds a light, slightly sweet, and fluffy contrast. This dish is a crowd-pleaser that combines the warmth and spice of chili with the soft, buttery goodness of cornbread, making it the perfect comfort food for any occasion.

Whether you’re hosting a dinner party, making a meal for the family, or just craving a filling and flavorful dish, Chili with Cornbread Topping is sure to become a favorite. The best part is that it is incredibly easy to make, requires minimal preparation, and can be customized to suit your taste. In this guide, you will learn how to prepare this one-pot meal, tips for success, and creative variations to make this dish uniquely yours.

Why You’ll Love Chili with Cornbread Topping

• Hearty and Satisfying: The combination of chili and cornbread provides a balanced meal that is both filling and comforting. The chili offers a rich, flavorful base, while the cornbread topping adds a soft, fluffy texture that complements the savory chili perfectly.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a family dinner, a potluck, or a cozy weekend meal, Chili with Cornbread Topping is versatile and appropriate for any occasion. It’s a great dish for feeding a crowd and is sure to leave everyone satisfied.
• One-Pot Meal: This dish is a one-pot wonder, making cleanup a breeze. The chili and cornbread topping bake together in the same dish, saving you time and reducing the number of pots and pans you need to clean.
• Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and easy-to-follow steps, this dish is ideal for both novice and experienced cooks. The chili can be prepared in advance, and the cornbread topping comes together quickly, making it a great option for busy weeknights.
• Customizable: You can easily customize both the chili and the cornbread topping to suit your tastes. Whether you prefer a spicier chili, a different combination of beans, or a cornbread topping with extra cheese, this dish can be adapted in many ways.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
• Preparation Time: 20 minutes
• Cooking Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
• Servings: Approximately 6 servings
• Calories per Serving: Around 400-450 calories per serving, depending on the specific ingredients used and portion size.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

• Calories: 400-450 kcal
• Fat: 15-18g
• Carbohydrates: 50-55g
• Protein: 18-20g
• Fiber: 8-10g
• Sugar: 6-8g

Ingredients

For the Chili:

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 bell pepper, diced
• 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes
• 1 (15 oz) can kidney beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 (15 oz) can black beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 (15 oz) can corn kernels, drained
• 1 tablespoon chili powder
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
• 1 cup vegetable broth (or chicken broth)
• 1 tablespoon tomato paste
• Salt and pepper, to taste

For the Cornbread Topping:

• 1 cup cornmeal
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 tablespoon baking powder
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 2 tablespoons sugar
• 1 cup milk
• 2 large eggs
• ¼ cup melted butter or oil
• 1 cup shredded cheese (optional, for extra flavor)
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder (optional, for added flavor)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Chili Base

Start by preparing the chili base. Heat the olive oil in a large oven-safe pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the diced onion and bell pepper, sautéing for about 5-7 minutes until the vegetables are softened and the onion becomes translucent. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until fragrant, stirring frequently to avoid burning the garlic.

2. Add the Spices and Tomatoes

Once the vegetables are softened and aromatic, stir in the chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper (if using). Allow the spices to cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring often to release their full flavors. Add the diced tomatoes, tomato paste, kidney beans, black beans, and corn kernels, stirring to combine.

3. Add the Broth and Simmer

Pour in the vegetable broth (or chicken broth) and stir everything together. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Let the chili cook for 20-30 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the chili to thicken slightly. Stir occasionally, and check the seasoning. If needed, adjust the salt, pepper, or spices to your preference. Once the chili is ready, remove the pot from the heat and set it aside while you prepare the cornbread topping.

4. Make the Cornbread Topping

In a separate bowl, combine the cornmeal, all-purpose flour, baking powder, salt, and sugar. Stir to combine the dry ingredients. In another bowl, whisk together the milk, eggs, and melted butter (or oil). Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. If you’re using cheese or garlic powder, fold those into the batter at this stage.

5. Assemble the Dish

Once the chili is ready and the cornbread batter is mixed, pour the chili back into the oven-safe pot (if it’s not already in one). Gently spread the cornbread batter over the top of the chili, ensuring that it covers the surface evenly. Don’t worry if the batter doesn’t fully cover the chili, as it will spread as it bakes.

6. Bake the Chili with Cornbread Topping

Place the pot in the oven and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 25-30 minutes, or until the cornbread topping is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Keep an eye on it during the baking process, as ovens may vary. If the cornbread topping starts to brown too quickly, cover the dish loosely with aluminum foil and continue baking until fully cooked.

7. Serve and Enjoy

Once the cornbread topping is golden and cooked through, remove the dish from the oven. Let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Scoop a generous portion of the chili with cornbread topping into bowls, and enjoy the comforting, hearty meal. Optionally, garnish with fresh herbs, sour cream, or shredded cheese if desired.

Tips for Perfect Chili with Cornbread Topping

• Use an Oven-Safe Pot: For this recipe, it’s essential to use an oven-safe pot or Dutch oven so that both the chili and cornbread topping can cook together in the oven. If you don’t have one, you can transfer the chili to a baking dish before adding the cornbread batter on top.
• Customize the Chili: The chili base is highly customizable. You can swap the beans or add extra vegetables, such as zucchini, carrots, or spinach. If you prefer a meat-based chili, add ground beef, turkey, or chicken to the recipe, cooking it with the onions and peppers before adding the spices and other ingredients.
• Make It Spicy: If you like spicy food, add extra chili powder, cayenne pepper, or diced jalapeños to the chili base. You can also top the dish with a drizzle of hot sauce for an extra kick.
• Ensure the Cornbread Topping Cooks Through: Make sure the cornbread topping is fully cooked by checking for a clean toothpick when inserted into the center. The cornbread should be golden brown on top, and it should rise and puff up as it bakes.
• Don’t Skip the Resting Time: After removing the chili with cornbread topping from the oven, let it sit for a few minutes before serving. This allows the dish to set and makes it easier to serve.

Variations of Chili with Cornbread Topping

• Vegetarian Chili with Cornbread Topping: For a vegetarian version, use a plant-based broth and add extra vegetables, such as diced carrots, mushrooms, or zucchini, in place of any meat. You can also add more beans or lentils to boost the protein content.
• Beef Chili with Cornbread Topping: For a more traditional chili, add ground beef or turkey to the chili base. Brown the meat with the onions and peppers before adding the beans, tomatoes, and spices. This version offers a heartier, meat-filled chili.
• Spicy Chili with Cornbread Topping: If you love heat, add more chili powder, cayenne pepper, or jalapeños to the chili base. You can also add a chopped chipotle pepper for a smoky, spicy flavor.
• Cheesy Cornbread Topping: Make the cornbread topping extra indulgent by adding more cheese to the batter. Sharp cheddar or pepper jack cheese will melt beautifully on top, creating a deliciously cheesy crust.
• Sweet Potato Chili with Cornbread Topping: Swap out some of the beans for roasted sweet potatoes for a slightly sweeter chili. The sweet potatoes will add a creamy texture and a natural sweetness that complements the chili’s spice.

Storage and Shelf Life

Chili with Cornbread Topping stores well in both the refrigerator and freezer, making it perfect for meal prep and leftovers.

• In the Refrigerator: After the chili has cooled, store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, place the chili and cornbread topping in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes or until heated through.
• In the Freezer: If you want to freeze the chili with cornbread topping, allow it to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight freezer-safe container. It can be stored for up to 3 months. To reheat, bake in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 30-40 minutes or until hot throughout.

Side Dishes and Pairings for Chili with Cornbread Topping

While Chili with Cornbread Topping is a hearty and filling dish on its own, it pairs wonderfully with complementary sides:

• Green Salad: A simple green salad with fresh greens, avocado, and a tangy vinaigrette balances the richness of the chili and cornbread topping.
• Garlic Bread: If you love bread, serve your chili with a side of garlic bread for extra indulgence.
• Pickled Vegetables: Add a zingy contrast to the rich chili with pickled onions, jalapeños, or cucumbers.
• Sour Cream or Greek Yogurt: A dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt adds a cool, creamy element to balance the spice and richness of the chili.

Print

Conclusion

Chili with Cornbread Topping is the ultimate comfort food dish that combines the best of both worlds: a rich, savory chili base and a light, fluffy cornbread topping. This one-pot meal is perfect for any occasion, from family dinners to casual gatherings, and is sure to be a hit with anyone who loves hearty, flavorful food.

With its simple ingredients and easy preparation, Chili with Cornbread Topping is a must-try recipe that you can customize to suit your taste. Whether you prefer a vegetarian version, a spicier kick, or an extra cheesy topping, this dish can be made your own. The best part is that it’s a complete meal that is both satisfying and comforting, perfect for cold nights or cozy gatherings.

With the tips, variations, and storage advice provided, you’re sure to make a delicious Chili with Cornbread Topping every time. So gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and enjoy this heartwarming dish with family and friends.