Cornbread Topped Chilli Pie Chile Madness Recipe

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A serving of Cornbread Topped Chili Pie with sour cream, cilantro, and Mexican rice on the side.

Cornbread Topped Chilli Pie Chile Madness Recipe is the ultimate comfort dish, combining two classic favorites: chili and cornbread. This recipe features rich, savory chili with a spicy kick, topped by a fluffy, golden cornbread crust that perfectly complements the chili beneath. It’s a filling, flavorful dish that’s easy to prepare, making it ideal for any occasion—from a busy weeknight to a casual get-together.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through each step of making this dish, from preparing the chili to baking the cornbread topping. Plus, we’ll share some tips and variations so you can personalize the recipe to your taste!

Ingredients for Cornbread Topped Chilli Pie Chile Madness Recipe

To begin, let’s gather the ingredients for a delicious, hearty chili base that will make this dish unforgettable.

Main Ingredients:

  • 1 lb ground beef (or turkey if you prefer a leaner option)
  • 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
  • 1 small onion, chopped
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 cup beef or vegetable broth
  • 1 tbsp tomato paste

Spices & Seasonings:

  • 1 tbsp chili powder
  • 1 tsp cumin
  • ½ tsp smoked paprika
  • ½ tsp oregano
  • ¼ tsp cayenne pepper (add more if you want extra heat!)
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste

Optional Add-ins:

  • 1 small bell pepper, diced
  • ½ cup corn kernels (fresh or frozen)
  • 1 jalapeño, finely chopped for added spice

How to Prepare Cornbread Topped Chilli Pie Chile Madness Recipe

Ground beef, onions, and garlic being sautéed in a skillet to prepare the chili base

Let’s start making the chili, which forms the hearty base for this amazing pie.

  1. Sauté the Aromatics: Heat a large skillet over medium heat and drizzle in a little oil. Add the chopped onion and cook for about 3-4 minutes, or until it softens. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
  2. Brown the Meat: Add the ground beef (or turkey) to the skillet and cook until browned. Break it apart as it cooks so that it becomes crumbled. Drain off any excess fat if needed.
  3. Spices, Spice, and Everything Nice: Stir in the chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, oregano, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper. Let the spices cook for about 30 seconds to intensify their flavors.
  4. Incorporate the Liquids: Add the tomato paste, diced tomatoes, and broth, stirring to combine. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let it cook for about 20 minutes, allowing the chili to thicken and develop its rich flavor.
  5. Add Beans and Veggies: Stir in the kidney beans, black beans, bell pepper, and corn (if using). Let the chili simmer for another 5 minutes, then remove from heat. Your chili base is now ready!

Making the Cornbread Topping

Now, let’s move on to the cornbread topping, which is the perfect complement to the chili’s bold flavors.

Cornbread Ingredients:

  • 1 cup cornmeal
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 tbsp baking powder
  • ½ tsp salt
  • 2 tbsp sugar
  • 1 cup milk (buttermilk adds extra richness)
  • 1 large egg
  • ¼ cup melted butter

How to Make the Cornbread Batter:

  1. In a large bowl, combine the cornmeal, flour, baking powder, salt, and sugar. Mix them well.
  2. In a separate bowl, whisk together the milk, egg, and melted butter until smooth.
  3. Gradually pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir gently. Be careful not to overmix, or your cornbread may turn out dense instead of light and fluffy.

Assembling the Chili Pie

It’s time to put everything together and get this beauty ready for the oven!

  1. Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) and let it preheat while you assemble the dish.
  2. Grease the Baking Dish: Lightly grease a 9×9-inch baking dish to prevent sticking.
  3. Layer the Chili: Pour the prepared chili mixture into the baking dish and spread it out evenly.
  4. Top with Cornbread: Spoon the cornbread batter on top of the chili. Use a spatula to smooth the top, but don’t worry if it doesn’t cover the chili completely—it will spread as it bakes.
Cornbread Topped Chili Pie baking in the oven with a golden crust forming.

Baking to Perfection

  1. Bake: Place the baking dish in the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the cornbread topping is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
  2. Cool Slightly: Let the chili pie sit for about 5-10 minutes before serving. This will help the layers firm up and make it easier to slice.

Serving Suggestions for Cornbread Topped Chilli Pie Chile Madness Recipe

While this dish is incredible on its own, you can add some toppings and sides to take it to the next level:

Topping Ideas:

  • Shredded cheddar cheese (or any cheese you like)
  • Sour cream or Greek yogurt
  • Fresh cilantro, chopped
  • Sliced avocado
  • Sliced jalapeños for an extra kick of spice

Side Dish Suggestions:

  • A light, refreshing green salad
  • Roasted vegetables like sweet potatoes or carrots
  • A side of Mexican rice or cornbread muffins for extra texture

Tips & Variations

  • Vegetarian Version: For a meatless version, skip the ground meat and add more beans, lentils, or plant-based crumbles instead.
  • Spicy Kick: Add more chili powder, cayenne pepper, or extra jalapeños for more heat, or keep it mild for those who prefer less spice.
  • Cheese in the Cornbread: Stir shredded cheese into the cornbread batter for a cheesy twist.
  • Gluten-Free Option: Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend for a gluten-free version of this dish.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?

Yes! You can prepare the chili ahead of time and store it in the fridge for a day. When you’re ready, just add the cornbread topping and bake as instructed.

Can I Freeze Cornbread Outgunned Chili Pie?

Yes, after baking, let the dish cool completely, then wrap it tightly and freeze for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply bake at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.

Can I Use a Boxed Cornbread Mix?

Of course! If you’re short on time, a boxed cornbread mix works great. Just follow the package instructions and layer it over the chili.

How Do I Make the Chili Spicier?

Add more jalapeños or a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes to the chili base for extra heat.

What Meat Should I Use?

Ground beef, turkey, chicken, or even a combination of meat and beans works well in this recipe.

Conclusion

This Cornbread Topped Chili Pie is a perfect fusion of spicy chili and sweet, tender cornbread. It’s easy to make, comforting, and incredibly versatile, allowing you to tailor it to your taste preferences. Whether you serve it for a family dinner or bring it to a gathering, it’s sure to be a hit. Enjoy the layers of flavor and texture in every bite, and don’t forget to get creative with toppings and variations!