Chili Con Cornbread
Chili Con Cornbread is a comforting and hearty dish that combines rich chili with a fluffy cornbread topping. The savory flavors of chili meld beautifully with the cheesy cornbread, making it a perfect meal for family gatherings or cozy nights in. It's an ideal choice for those craving a satisfying, one-pan dinner.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°.
- Pour chili into a lightly greased, 8-inch square baking pan.
- Prepare corn bread batter according to package directions.
- Stir in cheese.
- Pour cornbread batter over chili.
- Bake for 30 to 35 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a spicier kick, consider adding diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the chili before layering. If you don't have Martha White corn bread mix, any similar cornbread mix will work, or you can make your own from scratch. Using a mix with added flavor can enhance the overall taste. Feel free to substitute the Cheddar with Monterey Jack or pepper jack for a different twist.
Serving Suggestions
This dish is perfect for casual gatherings and pairs beautifully with a simple side salad or some pickled jalapeños. For a complete meal, serve with a dollop of sour cream and a sprinkle of chopped green onions on top. It's also great alongside American recipes like Hot Dogs With Fried Rice And Tomatoes for a fun twist.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, or microwave in short intervals, stirring in between to ensure even heating. For a crispy top, consider reheating in the oven.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Chili Con Cornbread contains roughly 302 calories, with 10g protein, 29g carbohydrates, and 16g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (21% of the Daily Value) and calcium (20% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 544mg per serving (24% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use homemade chili instead of canned?
Absolutely! Homemade chili can add a personal touch and unique flavors to your dish. Just ensure it's thick enough to support the cornbread layer, as thinner chili might make the cornbread soggy. Adjust the seasoning to your taste for the best results.
Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, you can easily make this dish vegetarian by using canned vegetarian chili. Look for options that are packed with beans and vegetables to maintain a hearty texture. This adaptation aligns perfectly with vegetarian recipes while still being satisfying and delicious.
How can I make the cornbread more flavorful?
To enhance the cornbread flavor, consider adding spices such as cumin or chili powder to the batter. You can also mix in additional ingredients like corn kernels or diced bell peppers. This will give your cornbread a delightful twist and complement the chili well.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).