Craving something comforting and filling? Hearty chili paired with cornbread is the ultimate cozy meal that’ll warm you up in no time. Packed with bold flavors and a perfect balance of textures, this combo is a crowd-pleaser for any occasion. Let’s get cooking!
Ingredients
For the Chili:
- 1 lb ground beef or turkey
- one onion, finely chopped
- 1 bell pepper, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- one can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
- one can (6 oz) tomato paste
- 1 tbsp chili powder
- one tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 cups beef or vegetable broth
- 1 tbsp olive oil
For the Cornbread:
- 1 cup cornmeal
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 1 tbsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1 cup milk
- 1/4 cup melted butter
- 1 egg
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
Recipe (Procedure)
Chili:
- Cook the meat: Heat a large pot over medium heat. Add the olive oil and brown the ground beef or turkey, breaking it up as it cooks. Once browned, remove any excess fat.
- Sauté the veggies: Add the chopped onion, bell pepper, and garlic to the pot, cooking until softened, about 5 minutes.
- Add the tomatoes and beans: Stir in the diced tomatoes, kidney beans, and black beans. Mix everything together.
- Season: Add the tomato paste, chili powder, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir until well combined.
- Simmer: Pour in the broth and bring the mixture to a boil. Reduce the heat and let it simmer uncovered for 30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Taste and adjust: Taste your chili and adjust the seasoning as needed. If you prefer a thicker chili, let it simmer for longer.
Cornbread:
- Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Grease or line an 8×8-inch baking dish.
- Mix the dry ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the cornmeal, flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
- Combine the wet ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the milk, melted butter, and egg until smooth.
- Combine both mixtures: Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. If you’re using cheese, fold it in gently.
- Bake: Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Cool and serve: Allow the cornbread to cool slightly before slicing. Serve alongside your delicious chili.
Conclusion
This hearty chili with cornbread is the perfect comfort food—spicy, savory, and deliciously satisfying. Whether for a family dinner or a cozy night in, it’s a meal everyone will love. Enjoy the warmth in every bite!
MM Khan
MM Khan is a storyteller at heart, blending his love for food and travel into engaging blog posts. With a knack for breaking down complex recipes into simple steps, he makes cooking fun for everyone. Whether he’s exploring street food or fine dining, his honest reviews and practical tips bring flavors to life. Follow him for tasty inspiration.
