Loaded Chili Cheese Cornbread Casserole

• 1 1/2 cups yellow cornmeal
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup sugar
• 1 tablespoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup milk
• 1 egg
• 1/2 cup vegetable oil
• 2 cups prepared chili (store-bought or homemade)
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup diced onions
• 1/4 cup diced bell peppers
• 1 can (4 oz) diced green chilies
• 2 green onions, sliced for garnish

Steps

1. 1 Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9x13 inch baking dish.
2. 2 In a large bowl, mix cornmeal, flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. 3 In another bowl, whisk together milk, egg, and vegetable oil. Stir into dry ingredients until just combined.
4. 4 Spread half of the cornbread batter into the prepared baking dish.
5. 5 Layer chili, 1 cup of cheese, onions, bell peppers, and green chilies over the batter.
6. 6 Dot the remaining cornbread batter over the top, covering the filling.
7. 7 Sprinkle remaining cheese over the top.
8. 8 Bake for 30-35 minutes or until golden brown and a toothpick comes out clean.
9. 9 Let cool for 10 minutes before garnishing with green onions.
10. 10 Slice and serve warm.

Equipment

• 9x13 inch baking dish
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Measuring cups and spoons

Variations

• Add crumbled cooked bacon or ground beef for extra heartiness.
• Experiment with different cheeses like Monterey Jack or Pepper Jack for varied flavor.

Substitutions

• Use buttermilk in place of milk for tangier cornbread.
• Substitute almond milk for a dairy-free option.

Pairings

• Cornbread casserole goes great with a side of black beans or a fresh fruit salad.
• A cold beer or sweet iced tea complements this dish perfectly.

Nutrition

Tips

• For a smokier flavor, add a pinch of smoked paprika to the cornbread batter.
• Use your favorite chili recipe for a personalized touch.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a 350°F oven until warmed through.

Freezing: Freezes well for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat in a 350°F oven.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve with a side of fresh salsa or a cooling avocado crema.
• Pairs well with a crisp green salad.

FAQ