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Chili Cornbread Bake

Chili Cornbread Bake combines bold flavors and hearty ingredients into a delicious dish perfect for gatherings or cozy dinners. This comforting meal features savory chili topped with fluffy cornbread, creating a delightful texture and flavor.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 40 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Course Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine American
Servings 8 servings
Calories 490 kcal

Ingredients
  

For the chili mixture

  • 1 lb lean ground turkey or lean ground beef
  • ½ cup yellow onion, diced
  • ½ cup celery, diced
  • 1 tsp minced garlic
  • 2 tbsp chili powder
  • 1 tsp ground cumin
  • ½ tsp freshly ground black pepper
  • ½ tsp red pepper flakes (to taste)
  • 15 oz tomato sauce
  • 16 oz can chili beans in mild sauce, undrained
  • 15 oz cannellini beans or small white beans, drained

For the cornbread topping

  • 2 (8.5 oz) packages Jiffy Corn Muffin Mix
  • 2 large eggs (adjust per package instructions)
  • cup milk (adjust per package instructions)
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese

For serving

  • Thinly sliced green onion (for garnish)
  • Cilantro (for garnish)
  • Sour cream (for serving)
  • Hot sauce (for serving)
  • Tortilla chips (for serving)

Instructions
 

Preparation

  • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Spray a 13x9-inch casserole dish with nonstick cooking spray.
  • In a large skillet, cook the lean ground turkey or beef over medium heat. Add the diced onion and celery, stirring until the meat is fully cooked. Drain any excess grease.
  • Add minced garlic, chili powder, ground cumin, black pepper, and red pepper flakes to the skillet. Cook for about 2 minutes to intensify the flavors.
  • Stir in tomato sauce, undrained chili beans, and drained cannellini beans. Let the mixture simmer on low heat.

Cornbread Topping

  • In a large mixing bowl, prepare the Jiffy Corn Muffin Mix according to package instructions by adding eggs and milk.
  • Pour the cornbread batter into the prepared baking dish, then spoon the chili mixture evenly on top.

Baking

  • Bake uncovered in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes until the edges are golden brown.
  • Sprinkle the shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses on top and return to the oven. Bake for an additional 5-10 minutes until the cheese melts and is bubbly.
  • Let it settle for a few moments before serving.

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Notes

This dish can be made ahead of time. Store in an airtight container for 3-4 days in the fridge, or freeze leftovers for up to 3 months. Customize spice levels and make variations to suit your taste.
Keyword Chili Cornbread Bake, Comfort Food, Cozy Meals, Easy Dinner, Family Recipe