Easy Chili Cornbread Bake - A Hearty and Delicious Comfort Food

This Easy Chili Cornbread Bake is the perfect comfort food that is both hearty and delicious. It combines a flavorful chili with a fluffy cornbread topping for a one-dish meal that will satisfy your cravings. This dish is quick and easy to prepare, making it a great option for busy weeknights or casual gatherings. The chili is packed with ground beef, beans, and spices, while the cornbread topping is slightly sweet and adds a nice contrast to the savory chili. Baked to perfection, this dish is sure to please everyone at the table!

Ingredients

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes
• 1 can (15 ounces) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 can (6 ounces) tomato paste
• 1 tablespoon chili powder
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
• 1 cup cornmeal
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1 tablespoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup milk
• 1/4 cup vegetable oil
• 1 egg
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned. Drain any excess fat.
3. Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet and cook until the onion is translucent.
4. Stir in the diced tomatoes, kidney beans, tomato paste, chili powder, cumin, paprika, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper (if using). Simmer the chili for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
5. Meanwhile, in a mixing bowl, whisk together the cornmeal, flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
6. In a separate bowl, combine the milk, vegetable oil, and egg. Whisk until well mixed.
7. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined.
8. Spread the chili mixture evenly in a 9x13-inch baking dish.
9. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the chili.
10. Pour the cornbread batter over the cheese and spread it evenly to cover the chili.
11. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the cornbread is golden brown and cooked through.
12. Remove from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving.
13. Serve hot and enjoy!

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