Description
This Chili Cornbread Casserole is a hearty, one-dish meal made with flavorful chili, sweet corn, and a golden cornbread topping. Perfect for busy weeknights or cozy weekend dinners.
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef or turkey (substitute with lentils for a vegetarian option)
- 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes (with green chilies for an extra kick)
- 1 packet chili seasoning mix (or homemade chili spices)
- 1 cup corn kernels (fresh, frozen, or canned)
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or a blend)
- 1 box cornbread mix (plus ingredients as per package instructions, usually milk and eggs)
Instructions
1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef or turkey. Cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Drain any excess fat.
3. Stir in the kidney beans, black beans, diced tomatoes, corn, and chili seasoning mix. Cook for an additional 5 minutes until heated through, stirring occasionally.
4. In a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, spread the chili mixture evenly across the bottom. Sprinkle half of the shredded cheese on top.
5. In a separate bowl, prepare the cornbread mix according to package instructions. Pour the cornbread batter over the chili layer, spreading it evenly.
6. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the cornbread is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
7. In the last 5 minutes of baking, sprinkle the remaining cheese on top and allow it to melt.
8. Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Serve warm, topped with sour cream, chopped green onions, or jalapeños if desired.
Notes
Use vegetarian lentils or plant-based crumbles to make this dish meatless.
Add chopped jalapeños or green chilies for extra spice.
Use a homemade cornbread batter if you prefer from-scratch baking.
This casserole is perfect for make-ahead meals—just bake and reheat.
Top with avocado slices, hot sauce, or a dollop of Greek yogurt for added flavor.