Chili Casserole Recipe

If you are craving a comforting, hearty dish that brings together the best of chili and cornbread goodness, this Chili Casserole is exactly what you need. It’s a crowd-pleaser that layers a rich, flavorful beef chili with a tender cornbread base, topped off with melted cheddar cheese and crunchy corn chips for that perfect contrast. Every bite bursts with warmth and texture, making it a go-to for family dinners, potlucks, or anytime you want a satisfying meal that feels like a warm hug. This Chili Casserole is not just food; it’s a cozy experience in a dish.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering these simple, pantry-friendly ingredients is the first step toward creating a homemade Chili Casserole that’s packed with flavor and texture. Each ingredient plays a key role, whether it’s building that hearty, spicy chili base or giving you a golden, slightly sweet cornbread crust that perfectly complements the savory filling.

• Ground beef (2 lbs): The protein base that delivers juicy, rich flavor for the chili layer.
• Chopped white onion (1 cup): Adds subtle sweetness and depth as it caramelizes with the beef.
• Chili beans (16 oz): Provides a creamy texture and hearty body to the chili.
• Tomato sauce (30 oz): Creates a smooth, tangy, and slightly sweet chili sauce base.
• Chili powder (2 tsp): Infuses the dish with traditional warm, smoky spice.
• Garlic powder (1 tsp): Enhances the savory notes without overpowering.
• Onion powder (1 tsp): Boosts the onion flavor in a subtle way.
• Smoked paprika (1 tsp): Adds a smoky richness that elevates the chili.
• Oregano (1 tsp): Introduces an herbal hint balancing the spices.
• Beef bouillon (1 tbsp): Deepens the meaty flavor without extra cooking time.
• Salt and pepper: Essential seasonings that bring all the flavors together.
• Cornmeal (1 cup): The heart of the cornbread layer, lending a slightly gritty texture and sweetness.
• All-purpose flour (1 cup): Provides structure to the cornbread crust.
• Sugar or honey (1/4 cup): Adds a touch of sweetness to contrast the spicy chili.
• Baking powder (2 tsp): Helps the cornbread rise and stay fluffy.
• Salt (1 tsp): Balances the sweetness and enhances flavor in the batter.
• Eggs (2): Bind the cornbread mixture and contribute to its tender crumb.
• Milk (1 cup): Moisturizes the cornbread, making it soft and light.
• Chopped green chiles (4 oz can): Adds a mild kick and brightens the cornbread’s flavor.
• Shredded cheddar cheese (2 cups): Melts into a gooey, flavorful topping that complements both layers.
• Corn chips (8 oz): Provides a crunchy, salty finish that contrasts beautifully with the creamy chili and soft cornbread.
• Sour cream and sliced green onions: Optional garnishes that add creaminess and fresh bite.

How to Make Chili Casserole

Step 1: Prep Oven and Baking Dish

Start by preheating your oven to 350ºF, which sets the perfect temperature for baking that golden cornbread and bubbling chili. While the oven warms up, grab a 13 x 9 casserole dish and give it a light spray of non-stick cooking spray or a smear of butter or oil to make sure nothing sticks and clean-up is a breeze.

Step 2: Prepare the Chili

Heat a skillet over medium-high and add the ground beef along with the chopped onion. Cook, stirring often, until the beef is nicely browned and the onions have softened and taken on a light caramel color. Season with salt and pepper to your taste as this builds the foundation of flavor. Next, stir in the tomato sauce, chili beans, chili powder, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, oregano, and beef bouillon. Turn the heat down and let the chili simmer gently, allowing those spices and flavors to meld while you prepare the cornbread layer.

Step 3: Prepare the Cornbread Layer

In a bowl, combine the cornmeal, all-purpose flour, sugar (or honey), baking powder, and salt. You can also use your favorite cornbread mix if you want to save time. Then add the milk, eggs, and chopped green chiles, stirring until everything is smoothly blended. This batter forms the bottom layer of the casserole—a slightly sweet, moist cornbread with just a bit of heat from the chiles that pairs beautifully with the savory chili.

Step 4: Assemble the Layers

Pour and spread the cornbread batter evenly at the bottom of your prepared casserole dish. Next, spoon the chili mixture on top, smoothing it out for an even layer. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the chili, making sure to cover every spot so you get plenty of cheesy goodness in each slice. Last but not least, crumble the corn chips over the cheese for a crunchy, salty topping that’s just unforgettable.

Step 5: Bake the Casserole

Place your casserole in the oven and bake for about 35 minutes. Watch the corn chips closely; if they start to brown too quickly, loosely cover the dish with foil to prevent burning. You’ll know it’s ready when the chili is bubbly, the cheese is fully melted, and the cornbread is golden brown around the edges.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Once out of the oven, let the Chili Casserole rest for a few minutes. This allows it to set so you can cut nice, neat servings. Serve it with dollops of sour cream and a sprinkle of sliced green onions for fresh color and creaminess. This dish makes about 9 hearty servings, perfect for sharing or for delicious leftovers the next day!

How to Serve Chili Casserole

Garnishes

Adding garnishes like sour cream, sliced green onions, or even a dash of hot sauce turns the Chili Casserole up a notch. Sour cream brings a cooling creaminess that balances the spices, while green onions add a refreshing crunch and subtle bite to every spoonful. Feel free to experiment with diced avocado or fresh cilantro for a bright, fresh twist.

Side Dishes

This casserole is a full meal on its own but pairs wonderfully with simple, fresh sides. A crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette cuts through the richness. You might also try roasted veggies, a bowl of fresh fruit, or a light coleslaw to add contrast and some extra brightness to your meal.

Creative Ways to Present

If you’re serving Chili Casserole at a party or potluck, consider scooping it into individual ramekins or mini cast iron skillets. Top each serving with extra cheese and a single corn chip for a festive presentation. You can also let guests customize their bowls with toppings set out buffet-style, making the meal interactive and fun.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Chili Casserole stores beautifully in the refrigerator. Transfer leftovers to an airtight container within two hours of cooking and keep for up to 4 days. When you’re ready to indulge again, simply reheat until warm throughout for a comforting second round of this delicious dish.

Freezing

This dish freezes well, making it great for meal prep. Cool the casserole completely, then wrap tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil or place it in a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 3 months. To thaw, move it to the fridge overnight before reheating, ensuring smoother, even warming without drying out.

Reheating

Reheat individual portions in the microwave or warm the whole dish covered with foil in a 350ºF oven until heated through. If reheating from frozen, give yourself extra time—around 30 minutes covered in foil—so the casserole warms evenly without burning the toppings.

FAQs

Can I make a vegetarian version of this Chili Casserole?

Absolutely! Substitute the ground beef with plant-based crumbles or extra beans and add veggies like bell peppers and mushrooms to keep it hearty and flavorful. Simply follow the same steps for the chili part using your vegetarian filling.

What can I use instead of corn chips for the topping?

If you want a change, crushed tortilla chips, crushed crackers, or even crispy fried onions make great crunchy toppings that add texture and flavor, giving your Chili Casserole a different but equally delicious twist.

Is it possible to use fresh chiles instead of canned green chiles?

Yes, fresh diced chiles can definitely be used and will add a nice brightness and a bit more heat. Just make sure to remove seeds if you want to keep it mild, and sauté them lightly before mixing into the batter to soften their flavor.

Can I prepare the chili part the day before?

Definitely! Making the chili ahead allows the flavors to deepen even further. Simply reheat before layering into the casserole, and proceed with assembling and baking as usual.

How spicy is the Chili Casserole?

This Chili Casserole has a mild to moderate spicy kick thanks to the chili powder and green chiles, but you can easily adjust the heat level by adding more or less chili powder, choosing hotter chiles, or topping with spicy sauces to suit your taste.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly special about a dish that combines layers of savory chili, tender cornbread, melted cheese, and crunchy corn chips in one satisfying casserole. Whether you’re feeding a family or bringing a dish to share, this Chili Casserole is bound to be a hit. Give it a try, and I promise it will quickly become one of your all-time favorite comfort foods to make and savor.

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