This dish is the perfect marriage of hearty, spicy chilli and sweet, fluffy cornbread. It’s comforting, flavorful, and guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re cooking for family dinner or hosting friends, this casserole will have everyone coming back for seconds (and thirds!).
Today, I’ll walk you through every step of the process, from the grocery list to the final bake. Plus, I’ll share some pro tips, nutritional info, and even the calorie count. Ready to get started? Let’s dive in!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Bold Flavors: The combination of spicy chilli and sweet cornbread is irresistible.
- Easy to Make: Perfect for beginners and seasoned cooks alike.
- Feeds a Crowd: This recipe serves 5, but you can easily double it for larger gatherings.
- Comfort Food at Its Best: Warm, hearty, and oh-so-satisfying.
Grocery List
Here’s everything you’ll need to make this delicious casserole. Save this list for your next grocery run!
For the Chilli Layer
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef (or ground turkey for a lighter option)
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 1 bell pepper, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 cup corn kernels (fresh, frozen, or canned)
- 2 tbsp tomato paste
- 1 cup beef or vegetable broth
- 1 tbsp chilli powder
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper (adjust to your spice preference)
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1 tbsp olive oil
For the Cornbread Topping
- 1 cup cornmeal
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tbsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1 cup buttermilk (or regular milk with 1 tbsp lemon juice)
- 1 large egg
- 1/4 cup melted butter
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional, for extra flavor)
Cooking Instructions
Let’s break this down step by step. Think of this as your personal cooking class—I’ve got your back!
Step 1: Preheat and Prep
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray.
Step 2: Make the Chilli
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add the chopped onion and bell pepper. Sauté for 3-4 minutes until softened.
- Add the minced garlic and ground beef. Cook until the beef is browned, breaking it up with a spoon.
- Stir in the chilli powder, cumin, smoked paprika, cayenne, salt, and black pepper.
- Add the diced tomatoes, tomato paste, beans, corn, and broth. Stir well.
- Let the mixture simmer for 10-15 minutes until thickened. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
Step 3: Prepare the Cornbread Topping
- In a large bowl, whisk together the cornmeal, flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
- In a separate bowl, mix the buttermilk, egg, and melted butter.
- Combine the wet and dry ingredients until just mixed. Don’t overmix—it’s okay if there are a few lumps.
- Fold in the shredded cheddar cheese if using.
Step 4: Assemble and Bake
- Pour the chilli mixture into the greased baking dish, spreading it evenly.
- Carefully spoon the cornbread batter over the chilli layer, spreading it to cover the surface.
- 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.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!
- Let the casserole cool for 5-10 minutes before serving.
- Garnish with fresh cilantro, sour cream, or extra shredded cheese if desired.
Pro Tips and Notes
- Make It Vegetarian: Swap the ground beef for plant-based crumbles or extra beans.
- Spice Level: Adjust the cayenne pepper to suit your taste. Add jalapeños for an extra kick!
- Meal Prep: This casserole reheats beautifully. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: Assemble the casserole (unbaked) and freeze. Thaw overnight in the fridge before baking.
Nutritional Information
Here’s the breakdown per serving (serves 5):
- Calories: 550 kcal
- Protein: 28g
- Carbohydrates: 60g
- Fat: 22g
- Fiber: 8g
Cooking Time
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
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Get the Right Tools
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Final Thoughts
This Spicy Chilli Cornbread Casserole is the ultimate comfort food with a kick. It’s hearty, flavorful, and perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting out, this recipe is foolproof and sure to impress.
So, what are you waiting for? Grab your apron, preheat that oven, and let’s get cooking! Don’t forget to tag me in your creations—I’d love to see how yours turns out.
Happy cooking!
[Your Name]
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