Name: Chili and Cornbread Casserole
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 pound ground beef; 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained; 2 tablespoons tomato paste; 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, with juices; 1 medium onion, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 2 teaspoons chili powder; 1 teaspoon ground cumin; 1 cup corn (fresh, frozen, or canned); 1 box (8.5 oz) cornbread mix; 1/3 cup milk; 1 large egg; 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional); Salt and pepper to taste

Craving a dinner that wraps you in warmth and delivers bold, hearty flavor with minimal effort? Chili and Cornbread Casserole might just be your new go-to. This comforting classic layers rich, meaty chili under a golden cornbread crust—baked together in one pan for ultimate convenience. It’s the perfect solution for busy weeknights, game days, or cozy Sunday dinners.

The beauty of this dish lies in the contrast: a spicy, smoky chili base topped with a slightly sweet, fluffy cornbread that soaks in all the goodness underneath. One bite gives you the best of both worlds—tender ground beef, savory beans, and that iconic cornbread crunch. Plus, it’s easy to customize with your favorite toppings like sour cream, shredded cheese, or green onions.

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

Getting the most out of your Chili and Cornbread Casserole starts with the right tools:

Large Skillet or Dutch Oven: Ideal for browning your beef and simmering chili ingredients evenly.
Mixing Bowl: To combine your cornbread batter quickly and smoothly.
9×13 Baking Dish: Provides ample space for layering and ensures an even bake.
Wooden Spoon or Spatula: Great for stirring and breaking up ground beef without damaging your cookware.
Measuring Cups & Spoons: Crucial for accurate measurements, especially for baking the cornbread topping.

Having these on hand ensures everything comes together efficiently and your casserole bakes perfectly from top to bottom.

Ingredients for the Chili and Cornbread Casserole

Every element in this dish brings a necessary texture or flavor to balance richness, spice, and warmth:

Ground Beef: The meaty foundation of the chili, it adds satisfying protein and bold, savory notes.
Kidney Beans: They bring body and texture, making the chili hearty and more filling.
Tomato Paste: Offers a deep umami base and helps thicken the chili.
Diced Tomatoes (with juices): Adds moisture and bright acidity to balance the rich meat.
Onion and Garlic: Classic aromatics that infuse the chili with flavor depth.
Chili Powder & Cumin: Provide the signature smoky heat and earthy flavor of a good chili.
Corn: Adds sweetness and bursts of texture throughout the dish.
Cornbread Mix: A shortcut to fluffy, golden perfection that seals in the chili underneath.
Milk & Egg (for cornbread mix): Ensures the batter is rich and moist.
Shredded Cheddar Cheese (optional): Adds a creamy, melty finish on top or in the middle.

How To Make the Chili and Cornbread Casserole

Step 1: Brown the Beef

In a large skillet or Dutch oven, cook ground beef over medium heat until fully browned. Break it apart as it cooks, then drain excess fat.

Step 2: Build the Chili Base

Add diced onions and garlic to the beef. Cook until fragrant, about 2 minutes. Stir in tomato paste, diced tomatoes, drained kidney beans, corn, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.

Step 3: Preheat and Layer

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Transfer the chili mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish and spread it evenly.

Step 4: Prepare Cornbread Topping

In a mixing bowl, combine the cornbread mix with milk and egg until just combined (don’t overmix). Pour the batter over the chili, gently smoothing it out to the edges.

Step 5: Bake Until Golden

Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until the cornbread topping is golden brown and a toothpick inserted comes out clean.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Let it cool slightly before serving. Top with sour cream, shredded cheese, or sliced green onions for extra flavor and crunch.

Serving and Storing Your Chili and Cornbread Casserole

Once out of the oven, this casserole is best served warm—the chili still bubbling beneath a golden, slightly crisp cornbread top. Spoon generous portions into bowls or onto plates and garnish with sour cream, green onions, shredded cheese, or even jalapeño slices if you’re feeling bold.

This dish also holds up beautifully as leftovers. Let it cool completely before storing in an airtight container. It will keep in the fridge for up to 4 days. To reheat, microwave single portions or warm the entire dish in the oven at 350°F until heated through. The cornbread may soften slightly, but the flavors deepen even more by the next day.

Frequently Asked Questions

How can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Simply swap the ground beef for plant-based ground meat or use extra beans (like black beans or pinto beans) to create a vegetarian version that’s just as satisfying.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the chili base a day ahead, store it in the fridge, and top it with fresh cornbread batter just before baking.

What if I don’t have cornbread mix?

You can make a quick homemade cornbread batter using cornmeal, flour, baking powder, salt, sugar, milk, egg, and butter. It works beautifully.

Is this freezer-friendly?

Yes, the baked casserole can be frozen in individual portions or whole. Wrap tightly and store up to 2 months. Thaw overnight and reheat in the oven.

Can I use turkey instead of beef?

Absolutely! Ground turkey is a leaner alternative and pairs wonderfully with the chili spices and cornbread.

Want More Casserole Ideas?

If this Chili and Cornbread Casserole got you hooked on cozy bakes, here are some other hearty ideas from LadyPlate to keep your casserole game strong:

You might enjoy the Sloppy Joe Casserole, which layers savory beef with a buttery biscuit crust. For something with a zesty Tex-Mex twist, the Taco Bake Casserole is always a crowd favorite.

Craving more comfort? Try the ultra-cheesy Cheesy Broccoli Rice Casserole for a veggie-packed meal, or the Buffalo Chicken Lasagna Recipe that blends spicy heat with creamy layers.

And if you’re after something a little different but just as satisfying, the Easy Seafood Casserole delivers a rich, coastal vibe with minimal prep.

Pin and Tell Me How Yours Turned Out

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If you give this a try, I’d love to know how it turned out. Did you go spicy? Add jalapeños? Maybe mix cheese into the cornbread? Drop a comment below.

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