Hearty Cornbread Bake

Experience the perfect blend of savory and sweet with our Ultimate Cornbread Casserole Recipe. This comforting dish harmoniously combines a robust beef chili base with a golden, slightly sweet cornbread topping, creating a meal that consistently delights everyone at the table. It’s a true crowd-pleaser, delivering warmth and flavor in every spoonful, making it ideal for family dinners, potlucks, or any occasion craving a touch of homemade goodness.

A Personal Touch from the Kitchen

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The Night Everyone Asked for Seconds!

This cornbread casserole holds a special place in my culinary heart. It’s more than just a recipe; it’s a journey of flavor development and persistence. Creating this dish was a true labor of love, demanding countless hours of experimentation to strike that delicate balance between its two main components: the savory chili filling and the sweet cornbread topping. Achieving perfection wasn’t easy, but every trial and error was worth it for the incredible result.

My biggest hurdle was finding the ideal ratio and texture. Sometimes, the cornbread was too thick, overwhelming the rich chili. Other times, the chili dominated, leaving the cornbread feeling like an afterthought. Then there was the flavor profile – ensuring the cornbread was flavorful without being too sweet, and the chili was perfectly spiced, neither too mild nor excessively hot. It truly took a lot of dedication to bring all these elements into perfect harmony.

After many attempts, I finally crafted a version that earned unanimous praise from my toughest critics: my family. The night I served this perfected Cornbread Casserole, my daughter, a self-proclaimed “little foodie” (who often showers my dishes with compliments), declared, “Mom, this is the best dinner you’ve ever made!” Her plate was spotless, and she eagerly requested it again the very next evening. That’s when I knew I had something truly special.

While this Cornbread Casserole Recipe involves preparing both the hearty filling and the tender cornbread topping from scratch, the effort is undeniably rewarding. The depth of flavor and the comforting satisfaction it brings make it incredibly worthwhile. Plus, it’s an excellent choice for a make-ahead meal. You can prepare the chili filling a day or two in advance, allowing the flavors to meld and deepen, making it even more delicious. Just whip up the cornbread batter and add it right before baking for a fresh, golden crust.

Don’t be intimidated by the seemingly long ingredient list! Most of these are pantry staples you likely already have on hand, or easily accessible. Each ingredient plays a crucial role in building the incredible layers of flavor. I truly hope you and your loved ones enjoy this Cornbread Casserole Recipe as much as my family does. It’s designed to bring comfort, joy, and satisfied smiles to your dinner table!

Why This Cornbread Casserole Will Be Your Family’s Favorite

There’s a reason this Cornbread Casserole has become a staple in my kitchen and receives rave reviews. Here’s what makes it an absolute winner:

• Unbeatable Flavor Combination: The richness of the beef chili, infused with a blend of aromatic spices, perfectly complements the slightly sweet, fluffy cornbread topping. It’s a symphony of textures and tastes that satisfies every palate.
• Hearty & Satisfying: This casserole is a complete meal in one dish, packed with protein, vegetables, and wholesome grains. It’s substantial enough to fill up even the hungriest eaters, making it perfect for busy weeknights or a comforting weekend feast.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether you’re feeding a large family, hosting a casual gathering, or simply looking for a cozy meal, this cornbread casserole fits the bill. It’s easy to scale up for bigger crowds and always impresses.
• Customizable to Your Taste: While the base recipe is fantastic, it’s also incredibly versatile. You can easily adjust the spice level of the chili, experiment with different beans, or get creative with a variety of delicious toppings.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: The chili base can be prepared in advance, saving you time on busy days. This means less stress in the kitchen and more time enjoying your meal.

Key Ingredients for the Perfect Cornbread Casserole

Crafting this exceptional cornbread casserole relies on a thoughtful selection of ingredients, each playing a vital role in building the dish’s incredible depth of flavor and satisfying texture. Here’s a closer look at the components and some expert tips:

For the Hearty Beef & Veggie Chili Base:

• Ground Beef: Opt for a leaner ground beef (like 93/7) to keep the chili from becoming too greasy. The key to rich flavor here is to take your time and deeply brown the ground beef. More color on the meat translates directly to more intense, savory flavor in your chili. Don’t rush this step!
• Onion & Red Bell Pepper: These aromatic vegetables form the flavor foundation of the chili. Dice them finely so they meld seamlessly into the filling rather than standing out as large chunks. This ensures a smoother, more integrated texture throughout the chili.
• Crushed Tomatoes: Using crushed tomatoes provides a naturally saucier texture, which is ideal for a chili base that needs to be substantial but not overly thick. It creates a rich, cohesive sauce that coats all the other ingredients beautifully.
• Chili Beans: The inclusion of chili beans in their mild, spiced sauce is a brilliant shortcut. They add an extra layer of flavor and texture without requiring any additional seasoning work on your part, boosting the chili’s complexity effortlessly.
• Black Beans & Corn: These add bulk, fiber, and contrasting textures. Ensure black beans are drained and rinsed to remove excess sodium and improve digestibility. Frozen corn is perfect for convenience and adds a touch of sweetness.
• Seasonings (Chili Powder, Cumin, Paprika, Oregano, Bouillon Powder): This carefully selected blend of spices creates the signature chili flavor. Don’t be shy with the chili powder; the sweetness of the cornbread and toppings will mellow its heat considerably, ensuring a balanced, flavorful dish rather than an overly spicy one. Adjust the salt and pepper to your preference, but remember that bold seasoning contributes significantly to the overall taste.

For the Sweet & Fluffy Cornbread Topping:

• Unsalted Butter: Melting the butter first and then allowing it to cool slightly before mixing is crucial. This ensures it incorporates smoothly into the batter without cooking the egg or creating a greasy texture.
• Whole Milk & Large Egg: These provide richness and moisture, contributing to the tender crumb of the cornbread. For the best texture, ensure all your wet ingredients (milk, egg, butter, honey) are at room temperature. This helps them emulsify better and creates a more uniform batter.
• Honey & White Sugar: A combination of sweeteners provides a balanced, subtly sweet flavor that beautifully contrasts the savory chili.
• All-Purpose Flour & Yellow Cornmeal: The blend of these two flours gives the cornbread its characteristic texture. Use enriched and degermed yellow cornmeal for a finer texture and consistent results. My go-to is Albers cornmeal.
• Baking Powder & Salt: Baking powder is the leavening agent that gives the cornbread its lift and fluffy texture. Salt enhances all the flavors in the topping.
• Cornstarch: A small amount of cornstarch in the cornbread batter helps achieve a wonderfully tender crumb, preventing it from becoming too dense or dry.

Crafting Your Cornbread Casserole: A Step-by-Step Guide

Making this cornbread casserole is a rewarding process, combining the art of a perfectly spiced chili with the comfort of homemade cornbread. Follow these detailed steps for a truly memorable meal:

Step 1: Preparing the Rich Chili Filling

1. Sauté the Aromatics: Begin by heating a tablespoon of olive oil in a large, oven-safe skillet (a 4-quart cast-iron pan works wonderfully) over high heat. Add your finely diced yellow onion and red bell pepper. Sauté them for 3-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they start to soften and become fragrant. This initial step builds a crucial flavor base for your chili.
2. Brown the Ground Beef: Push the softened vegetables to the sides of the skillet, creating space in the center. Add the ground beef to the center and allow it to sear undisturbed for a few minutes on each side to develop a deep brown crust. This browning process, known as the Maillard reaction, is essential for unlocking rich, complex flavors. Once seared, break up the beef with a spoon and continue cooking until it’s deeply browned all over.
3. Season and Integrate: As the beef browns, sprinkle in all the chili seasonings: chili powder, ground cumin, paprika, dried oregano, beef bouillon powder, onion powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Stir these spices into the beef and vegetables, allowing them to toast slightly for about one minute. This step enhances their aroma and flavor significantly. Next, stir in the tomato paste and cook for another minute, letting it caramelize slightly, which deepens the tomato flavor.
4. Simmer the Chili: Deglaze the pan by pouring in the crushed tomatoes, scraping up any delicious browned bits from the bottom of the skillet with a wooden spoon. This adds immense flavor to the sauce. Stir well, then add the chicken broth, undrained chili beans, drained and rinsed black beans, frozen corn, and a teaspoon of white sugar (which helps balance the acidity of the tomatoes). Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, then reduce the heat to medium-low, cover the skillet, and let it simmer for 15 minutes. This allows all the flavors to meld and the chili to thicken slightly.

Step 2: Preparing the Golden Cornbread Topping

5. Preheat Oven and Prep Batter: While the chili simmers, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the cooled melted butter, whole milk, large egg, honey, and white sugar until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
6. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, yellow cornmeal, baking powder, salt, and cornstarch. This ensures even distribution of the leavening agents and seasonings.
7. Mix Wet and Dry: Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients. Whisk gently just until no dry streaks of flour remain. Be careful not to overmix the batter; overmixing can develop the gluten in the flour, leading to a tough cornbread. A few small lumps are perfectly fine.

Step 3: Assemble and Bake the Casserole

8. Assemble the Casserole: Once the chili has simmered, remove the lid. Carefully and evenly spread the prepared cornbread batter over the hot chili filling in the skillet. Use the back of a spoon or a small spatula to gently smooth it out to the edges.
9. Bake to Golden Perfection: Place the uncovered skillet in the preheated oven. Bake for 30 to 35 minutes, or until the cornbread topping is beautifully golden brown, firm to the touch, and cooked through. A toothpick inserted into the center of the cornbread should come out clean.

Step 4: Serve and Enjoy with Favorite Toppings

10. Serve Warm: Once baked, remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Spoon generous portions into bowls or onto plates.
11. Add Your Must-Have Toppings: This is where the magic truly happens! Garnish with your favorite toppings to add extra layers of flavor and texture. My personal must-haves are freshly shredded sharp cheddar cheese and a big dollop of cool sour cream. The combination of these creamy, sharp, and sweet elements elevates the entire dish.

Elevate Your Dish with The Perfect Toppings

While the Cornbread Casserole is fantastic on its own, the toppings are what truly make it sing, adding layers of flavor, texture, and visual appeal. Don’t skip this essential step; they transform a great dish into an extraordinary one! My absolute must-haves are always shredded sharp cheddar cheese and a generous dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt. Here are some of my favorite topping suggestions:

• Shredded Cheese: Sharp cheddar is a classic, but Pepper Jack or Monterey Jack cheese also melt beautifully and add a lovely tang.
• Sour Cream or Greek Yogurt: A cool, creamy dollop provides a delightful contrast to the warm, spicy chili. Greek yogurt is a fantastic lighter alternative that still offers that creamy texture.
• Fresh Herbs: Brighten up the dish with a sprinkle of sliced green onions or fresh cilantro. Their vibrant flavors add a refreshing finish.
• Avocado: Diced avocado or a scoop of homemade guacamole adds a creamy, rich element and a touch of healthy fats.
• Heat Factor: For those who love a bit more kick, sliced pickled or fresh jalapeños are a perfect addition.
• Crispy Bacon: Crumbled bacon bits add an irresistible smoky, salty crunch.

Make-Ahead & Storage Solutions for Your Cornbread Casserole

This Cornbread Casserole is not only delicious but also wonderfully versatile when it comes to preparation and storage. Planning ahead can save you time and make dinner assembly a breeze.

Make Ahead Tips:

• Chili Filling: The chili portion of this casserole is perfect for preparing in advance. You can cook the entire chili filling up to 1 day ahead of time. Once cooked, allow it to cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container and refrigerate. The flavors will actually deepen and improve overnight! When you’re ready to bake, simply spread the chilled chili into your oven-safe skillet, prepare the cornbread topping, and proceed with baking as directed.

Storage & Reheating:

• Best When Fresh: For the absolute best texture, this cornbread casserole is most delicious enjoyed the day it’s baked, as the cornbread topping is at its fluffiest and most tender.
• Leftovers (Refrigeration): If you have leftovers, allow the casserole to cool completely. For optimal texture retention, it’s recommended to carefully separate the cornbread topping from the chili filling before storing. Place both the cornbread and the chili in separate airtight containers and refrigerate for up to 3-4 days. Storing them separately helps prevent the cornbread from becoming overly soft or soggy.
• Reheating:
  • Microwave: For individual portions, reheat the chili and cornbread separately in the microwave until thoroughly warm.
  • Oven: For larger portions or if reheating together, place the chili and cornbread (if separated) in an oven-safe dish. Cover loosely with foil and warm in a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) until heated through, typically 15-25 minutes.
• Freezing (Not Recommended for Cornbread Topping): While the chili filling freezes beautifully on its own for up to 3 months, freezing the assembled casserole with the cornbread topping is generally not recommended. The cornbread tends to become dense, crumbly, and grainy once thawed, losing its desirable texture. If you plan to freeze, freeze only the chili, then prepare fresh cornbread when ready to bake and serve.

Frequently Asked Questions About Cornbread Casserole

Can I make this cornbread casserole vegetarian?

Absolutely! To make a vegetarian version, simply omit the ground beef and sauté a combination of mushrooms, diced zucchini, or plant-based ground meat substitute with the onions and bell peppers. You can also add an extra can of beans (like kidney beans or pinto beans) to enhance the heartiness of the chili base.

What kind of skillet should I use?

A large (4-quart) oven-safe skillet, such as a cast-iron skillet, is ideal for this recipe. Cast iron retains heat beautifully and can go directly from the stovetop to the oven. If you don’t have an oven-safe skillet, you can cook the chili in any large pot and then transfer it to a 9×13 inch baking dish before topping with cornbread and baking.

Can I use a store-bought cornbread mix?

While this recipe features a homemade cornbread topping for superior flavor and texture, you can certainly use a good quality store-bought cornbread mix in a pinch. Prepare the mix according to package directions, then spread it over the chili and bake as instructed.

How do I know when the cornbread is cooked through?

The cornbread is cooked when it’s golden brown on top and firm to the touch. You can also insert a toothpick into the center of the cornbread; if it comes out clean, the cornbread is done.

Can I make the chili spicier?

Yes! If you prefer a spicier chili, you can increase the amount of chili powder, add a pinch of cayenne pepper, or include finely diced fresh jalapeños or serrano peppers when sautéing the onions and bell peppers.

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Cornbread Casserole Recipe

By
Chelsea Lords

This irresistible Cornbread Casserole recipe brings together fluffy, sweet golden cornbread and a rich, savory beef chili for a true crowd-pleasing comfort food experience.

Prep Time:

40 minutes

Cook Time:

30 minutes

Total Time:

1 hour
10 minutes

Servings:

6-8 servings

Equipment

• Large cast-iron pan (oven-safe, 4 quarts)

Ingredients

Filling

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 3/4 cup finely diced yellow onion
• 3/4 cup finely diced red bell pepper
• 1 pound ground beef (I use 93/7 lean)
• 3 tablespoons chili powder
• 2 teaspoons ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon beef bouillon powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes
• 1/2 cup chicken broth
• 1 (16-ounce) can chili beans (undrained)
• 1 (15-ounce) can black beans (drained & rinsed)
• 3/4 cup frozen corn
• 1 teaspoon white sugar

Cornbread Topping

• 8 tablespoons unsalted butter (melted and cooled)
• 1 cup whole milk
• 1 large egg
• 2 tablespoons honey
• 6 tablespoons white sugar
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 3/4 cup yellow cornmeal (enriched and degermed; I use Albers)
• 2-1/2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• Toppings as desired (see note 1 in the Recipe Notes section below)

Instructions

• Ensure your cornbread ingredients are at room temperature. In a large ovenproof skillet (4 quarts), heat the olive oil over high heat. Add the finely diced onion and red pepper and cook until they begin to soften, about 3-5 minutes. Push the cooked vegetables to the edges of the skillet and add the ground beef to the center. Allow it to sear well on each side, then break it up and cook until it is deeply browned. While the beef is browning, stir in all the chili seasonings (chili powder, cumin, paprika, oregano, beef bouillon powder, onion powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper).
• Stir in the tomato paste and cook for 1 more minute. Deglaze the pan with the crushed tomatoes, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet. Cook for 1 minute, then add the chicken broth, chili beans (undrained), black beans (drained & rinsed), frozen corn, and white sugar. Stir everything together well. Reduce the heat to medium-low, cover the skillet, and simmer for 15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the chili to thicken.
• While the chili simmers, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
• In a large bowl, whisk together the melted (but cooled) butter, whole milk, egg, honey, and 6 tablespoons of white sugar until smooth. In a separate bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, yellow cornmeal, baking powder, salt, and cornstarch. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and whisk just until no dry streaks remain. Be careful not to overmix.
• Carefully spread the cornbread batter evenly over the hot chili. Use a spoon or spatula to gently smooth it out to cover the entire surface. Bake the casserole uncovered for 30 to 35 minutes, or until the cornbread topping is golden brown and cooked through. A toothpick inserted into the center of the cornbread should come out clean.
• Once baked, remove from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. Spoon the cornbread casserole into bowls or onto plates and serve warm with your favorite toppings. My personal must-haves are freshly grated sharp cheddar cheese and a big spoonful of sour cream. I also highly recommend adding diced avocado and a few slices of fresh or pickled jalapeño for extra flavor and texture.

Recipe Notes

Note 1: Toppings are Essential! Don’t skip the toppings for this cornbread casserole, as they truly make the dish shine. My personal must-haves are sharp cheddar cheese and sour cream, but feel free to customize! Sliced green onions or fresh cilantro, diced avocado or homemade guacamole, pickled or fresh jalapeños for a kick, or crumbled bacon are all fantastic additions. Other cheese options like Pepper Jack or Monterey Jack also work wonderfully here.

Nutrition

Serving: 1serving

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Calories: 632kcal

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Carbohydrates: 76g

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Protein: 29g

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Fat: 24g

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Saturated Fat: 11g

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Polyunsaturated Fat: 2g

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Monounsaturated Fat: 7g

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Trans Fat: 0.4g

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Cholesterol: 65mg

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Sodium: 1449mg

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Potassium: 1262mg

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Fiber: 11g

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Sugar: 26g

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Vitamin A: 2483IU

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Vitamin C: 33mg

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Calcium: 182mg

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Iron: 8mg

Nutrition information is automatically calculated and should be used as an approximation only.

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