Why You’ll Love These Chili Pot Pies with Cornbread Crust
- Quick and Easy: With minimal prep, you’ll have a satisfying dinner on the table in no time.
- Comfort Food Classic: Warm, rich chili topped with fluffy cornbread is the ultimate comfort food.
- Customizable: Easily adapt the recipe with your favorite chili ingredients.
- Family-Friendly: Fun to serve in individual portions for a special touch.
Tools You’ll Need
- Whisk and spatula
- Large skillet for the chili
- Mixing bowls for the chili and cornbread batter
- Individual ramekins or an oven-safe baking dish
Chili Pot Pies with Cornbread Crust
- Total Time: 40 minutes
Description
There’s something magical about the combination of hearty chili and golden cornbread crust, baked together in perfect harmony. These Chili Pot Pies with Cornbread Crust are a cozy, comforting meal that’s as easy to make as it is satisfying to eat. Perfect for chilly nights or when you’re craving a one-dish dinner, this recipe will quickly become a family favorite.
Ingredients
For the Chili:
- 1 lb ground beef or turkey
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 cup diced tomatoes (canned or fresh)
- 1 cup tomato sauce
- 1 cup kidney beans or black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
For the Cornbread Crust:
- 1 cup cornmeal
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup milk
- 1 egg
- 2 tablespoons melted butter
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Chili
- In a large skillet, cook the ground beef or turkey over medium heat until browned. Drain any excess grease.
- Add the diced onion and garlic, cooking for 2-3 minutes until softened.
- Stir in the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, beans, and spices (chili powder, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper).
- Reduce heat and let the chili simmer for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Step 2: Make the Cornbread Batter
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together the cornmeal, flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
- Add the milk, egg, and melted butter, mixing until smooth.
Step 3: Assemble the Pot Pies
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Spoon the prepared chili into individual ramekins or an oven-safe baking dish, filling them about 2/3 full.
- Pour the cornbread batter over the chili, spreading it out evenly. Leave a bit of space at the top to prevent overflow.
Step 4: Bake
- Place the ramekins or baking dish on a baking sheet to catch any drips.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the cornbread is golden and cooked through. Insert a toothpick into the cornbread to test; it should come out clean.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
- Let the pot pies cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with sour cream, shredded cheese, or chopped cilantro for extra flavor.
Notes
- Add Veggies: Include diced bell peppers, corn, or zucchini in the chili for added texture and nutrients.
- Cheese It Up: Sprinkle shredded cheddar on the chili before adding the cornbread batter for a cheesy surprise.
- Spice Level: Adjust the chili powder and add a pinch of cayenne for more heat, or omit the spices for a milder flavor.
- Make Ahead: Prepare the chili in advance and store it in the fridge. Add the cornbread topping and bake when ready to serve.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Cuisine: American
Storage Instructions
- Refrigerate Leftovers: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Reheat: Warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, or microwave individual portions.
- Freeze: Freeze the chili base separately and add the cornbread topping fresh before baking.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: Can I use a boxed cornbread mix?
A: Absolutely! If you’re short on time, a boxed mix works great for the topping.
Q2: Can I make this vegetarian?
A: Yes! Swap the meat for extra beans or a meatless crumbles alternative.
Q3: Can I make this in one big dish instead of ramekins?
A: Definitely. Use a 9×13-inch baking dish and increase the baking time by 5-10 minutes.
Conclusion: Cozy, Comforting, and Irresistible!
These Chili Pot Pies with Cornbread Crust are the perfect blend of hearty and satisfying flavors. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or preparing for a potluck, this recipe will be a hit. Give it a try, and get ready to enjoy the ultimate comfort food!
Did you try this recipe? Share your thoughts and photos with us on social media—we can’t wait to see your creations!
Nutritional Information (per serving)
Calories: 350
Protein: 18g
Carbohydrates: 40g
Fat: 10g
Warm up with these hearty pot pies and make every bite unforgettable!
