Jiffy Cornbread Chili Casserole Recipes : Easy Hearty One Pan Meals

Jiffy Cornbread Chili Casserole Recipes : Easy Hearty One Pan Meals offer a comforting blend of savory chili and sweet cornbread, baked to golden perfection.

This dish represents the epitome of comfort food, uniting the robust flavors of chili with the subtle sweetness of cornbread in a single, satisfying casserole. A harmonious blend of ground meat, beans, and aromatic spices forms the chili base, while a fluffy, golden-brown cornbread topping adds a delightful textural contrast.

The aroma alone is enough to evoke feelings of warmth and contentment the savory scent of simmering chili mingling with the sweet, buttery fragrance of cornbread. Each spoonful offers a symphony of flavors, with the hearty chili providing a rich, meaty foundation complemented by the delicate sweetness and crumbly texture of the cornbread.

Deeply rooted in American culinary traditions, dishes like this have long been a staple at family gatherings, potlucks, and casual weeknight dinners. Its popularity stems from its ability to nourish both body and soul, offering a sense of home and familiarity with every bite.

One of the great appeals of this casserole lies in its simplicity and adaptability. It’s a budget-friendly meal that requires minimal effort, making it ideal for busy weeknights. Feel free to tailor the ingredients to suit your preferences, whether you prefer a spicier chili or a sweeter cornbread.

Variations abound, from adding cheese and sour cream as toppings to incorporating different types of beans or vegetables into the chili. Some regional twists might include using a spicier chili powder or adding jalapeos for an extra kick.

Ready to experience this culinary masterpiece for yourself? The following recipe provides a step-by-step guide to creating your own delicious cornbread chili casserole. Get ready to enjoy a hearty and satisfying meal that’s sure to become a family favorite.

Recipe Metadata

• Categories: One pot Recipes, Fall Recipes, Winter Recipes
• Courses: Main Dishes, Dinner
• Cuisines: American
• Keywords: Chili, Cornbread, Casserole, Easy, Hearty, Jiffy Mix

Estimated Cost: $12.00 total

Preparation Time & Yield

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 35 minutes
• Total Time: 50 minutes
• Recipe Yield: Serves 6 people

Ingredients

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 1 (15-ounce) can kidney beans, rinsed and drained
• 1 (15-ounce) can pinto beans, rinsed and drained
• 1 (15-ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
• 1 (8-ounce) can tomato sauce
• 1 packet chili seasoning
• 1 cup water
• 1 box (8.5 ounces) Jiffy Corn Muffin Mix
• 1/3 cup milk
• 1 egg
• 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)

Instructions

• Step 1: Prepare the Chili: In a large skillet or Dutch oven, brown the ground beef over medium-high heat. Drain off any excess grease. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
• Step 2: Combine Chili Ingredients: Stir in the kidney beans, pinto beans, diced tomatoes (undrained), tomato sauce, chili seasoning, and water. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce heat and cook for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally, to allow the flavors to meld.
• Step 3: Prepare the Cornbread Topping: While the chili simmers, preheat the oven to 400F (200C). In a medium bowl, combine the Jiffy Corn Muffin Mix, milk, and egg. Stir until just combined; do not overmix.
• Step 4: Assemble the Casserole: Pour the chili mixture into a 9×13 inch baking dish. Spread the cornbread batter evenly over the top of the chili.
• Step 5: Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the cornbread is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
• Step 6: Add Cheese (Optional): If desired, sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the cornbread during the last 5 minutes of baking.
• Step 7: Cool and Serve: Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving. Serve warm, garnished with your favorite chili toppings, such as sour cream, chopped green onions, or avocado.

For a vegetarian option, substitute the ground beef with plant-based crumbles or an additional can of beans. For a spicier chili, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a diced jalapeo to the chili mixture.

Nutritional Information

Approximate nutritional values per serving (based on 1/6 of the casserole, without cheese):

Essential Cooking Equipment

• Large skillet or Dutch oven
• 9×13 inch baking dish
• Medium mixing bowl
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Can opener
• Mixing spoon or spatula

Variations

Numerous adaptations can enhance the versatility of this recipe. Consideration of ingredient substitutions, regional culinary styles, and dietary requirements allows for a tailored experience.

• Ingredient Swaps: Ground turkey or chicken serves as a lighter alternative to ground beef. Black beans or great northern beans can replace kidney or pinto beans. Diced bell peppers or corn kernels enhance the chili’s vegetable content.
• Regional Twists: Incorporating chorizo into the chili base lends a smoky, spicy flavor profile. Using masa harina in the cornbread batter offers a denser, more authentic cornbread texture. Southwestern variations might include green chiles or a topping of pepper jack cheese.
• Dietary Adjustments: A vegetarian or vegan version can be achieved by substituting the meat with plant-based protein crumbles or a hearty mix of vegetables like squash, zucchini, and mushrooms. Ensure chili seasoning is gluten-free. Dairy-free milk and vegan egg substitutes can be used in the cornbread.

Serving Suggestions

Cornbread chili casserole is a versatile dish suitable for various occasions. It can be served as a comforting weeknight dinner, a potluck contribution, or a hearty meal during colder months. The casserole pairs well with toppings such as sour cream or Greek yogurt, chopped green onions, shredded cheese, avocado slices, or a dollop of salsa. A side salad with a light vinaigrette can provide a refreshing contrast to the richness of the casserole.

Storage Tips

Proper storage is essential to maintain the casserole’s quality and freshness. Allow the casserole to cool completely before covering it tightly with plastic wrap or transferring it to an airtight container. Refrigerated, the casserole will remain palatable for up to 3-4 days. For longer storage, the casserole can be frozen for up to 2-3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or the entire casserole in a preheated oven at 350F (175C) until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

• Question 1: Can the chili be made ahead of time? The chili component of the casserole can be prepared a day or two in advance. Store it in the refrigerator until ready to assemble the casserole.
• Question 2: Can I use a different type of cornbread mix? While Jiffy mix is commonly used for its convenience and reliable results, other cornbread mixes can be substituted. Adjust liquid quantities as needed to achieve a smooth batter consistency.
• Question 3: How do I prevent the cornbread from being soggy? Ensuring the chili is not overly liquid before adding the cornbread topping helps prevent sogginess. Also, avoid overmixing the cornbread batter, as this can lead to a denser texture.
• Question 4: Can this casserole be made in a slow cooker? While not the traditional method, the chili can be cooked in a slow cooker. Transfer the chili to an oven-safe dish, top with cornbread batter, and bake as directed to brown the cornbread topping.

Summary & Final Thoughts

This Jiffy Cornbread Chili Casserole is truly a standout dish. Its harmonious blend of savory chili and sweet cornbread creates a comforting and satisfying meal that’s perfect for any occasion.

Whether you’re looking to customize the recipe with your favorite chili spices, swap out ingredients to suit your dietary needs, or add extra toppings to make it your own, the possibilities are endless. This recipe offers a versatile foundation for a delightful culinary experience.

So, what are you waiting for? Give this recipe a try and experience the joy of a warm, hearty casserole made with love. We encourage you to share your results, photos, and any creative twists you add in the comments below. Your experiences can inspire others to embark on their own cooking adventures!

Happy cooking! Let us know how yours turns out!