Skillet Chili Cornbread Pot Pie

An All-in-One Delight: Skillet Chili Cornbread Pot Pie

Ever have one of those days where you want to cook something delicious but can’t bear the thought of juggling multiple dishes? We’ve all been there! That’s why we created this Skillet Chili Cornbread Pot Pie, which combines everything you need into one satisfying meal. Inspired by the comforting classic chicken pot pie, we’ve added a southwestern twist with a hearty chili filling and a cornbread topping. It’s the perfect dish to set and forget, allowing you to relax while it bakes to perfection.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This dish is the ultimate comfort food, combining the rich, spicy flavors of homemade chili with the sweet, fluffy goodness of cornbread. Whether you make the chili from scratch or use store-bought, the result is a scrumptious meal that will have you hooked from the first bite. Plus, it’s customizable—you can adjust the spice level and add your favorite ingredients to make it your own.

Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need

• Large, ovenproof skillet
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Oven

Ingredients

Chili:

• 1 1/2 pounds ground beef
• 2 (8 oz.) cans tomato sauce
• 1 (10 oz.) can diced tomatoes with green chiles
• 1 (14 oz.) can kidney or pinto beans, rinsed and drained
• 1 (14 oz.) can black beans, rinsed and drained
• 1 yellow onion, finely chopped
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons chili powder
• 2 teaspoons cumin
• 1 teaspoon oregano
• 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
• Kosher salt and freshly ground pepper, to taste

Cornbread Topping:

• 2 (8 oz.) packages cornbread mix
• 2 eggs
• 2/3 cup milk
• 1 (8 oz.) can creamed corn
• 1 cup cheddar cheese, grated, optional

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 400º F.
2. Heat olive oil in a large, ovenproof skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until softened and translucent, about 5 minutes.
3. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes, until fragrant.
4. Add the ground beef to the onion and garlic mixture. Cook until browned, about 8-10 minutes. Season with chili powder, cumin, oregano, salt, and pepper, then stir to combine.
5. Add the tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, and all the beans. Stir until everything is mixed together.
6. Reduce the heat to medium-low and let the chili simmer, stirring occasionally, for 15-20 minutes. Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed.
7. While the chili simmers, prepare the cornbread topping. In a large bowl, whisk together the cornbread mix, eggs, and milk. Once combined, fold in the creamed corn and cheddar cheese, if using.
8. Pour the cornbread mixture over the chili in the skillet and spread it into an even layer.
9. Place the skillet in the oven and bake until the cornbread is cooked through and the chili mixture is bubbling, about 20-25 minutes. Serve hot and enjoy!

Tips for Success

• Ensure your skillet is ovenproof to avoid any mishaps when transferring to the oven.
• Adjust the heat of the chili by altering the amount of chili powder to suit your taste.
• For added flavor, try using a mix of cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses.

Additional Tips and Variations

Feel free to substitute ground turkey for the beef for a lighter version. You can also add bell peppers or corn to the chili for extra texture and flavor. For a vegetarian option, omit the meat and add more beans or vegetables.

Nutritional Highlights (Per Serving)

This dish is packed with protein from the beef and beans and offers a good source of fiber. Adding cheese provides calcium, while the cornbread topping adds a comforting dose of carbohydrates.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the chili portion ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, add the cornbread topping and bake as directed.

Can I freeze leftovers?

Absolutely! Store any leftovers in an airtight container and freeze for up to three months. Reheat in the oven for best results.

Conclusion

This Skillet Chili Cornbread Pot Pie is a delightful, all-in-one meal that’s sure to become a family favorite. With its zesty chili and sweet cornbread topping, it’s a comforting dish perfect for any night of the week. Give it a try, and don’t forget to share your experience with us in the comments below! Enjoy your meal!