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Loaded Chili Cheese Cornbread Bake

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This Loaded Chili Cheese Cornbread Bake is a hearty, cheesy, and comforting one-pan meal perfect for game day or chilly nights. With layers of spiced chili, gooey cheddar cheese, and golden buttermilk cornbread, it’s a filling and flavorful dish that satisfies every time.

Ingredients

  • 1 cup cornmeal
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 tablespoon baking powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1 cup buttermilk
  • 2 eggs
  • 1/4 cup melted butter
  • 1 pound ground beef (or ground turkey)
  • 1 small onion, diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
  • 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1 tablespoon chili powder
  • 1 teaspoon cumin
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1 jalapeño, sliced (optional)
  • Fresh cilantro for garnish

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
  2. Make the Cornbread Batter: In a large bowl, whisk together cornmeal, flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. In another bowl, whisk the buttermilk, eggs, and melted butter. Combine the wet and dry ingredients until just mixed.
  3. Prepare the Chili: In a skillet over medium heat, cook ground beef until browned. Add diced onion and minced garlic, and cook until softened. Stir in diced tomatoes, kidney beans, black beans, and all spices. Simmer for 10 minutes.
  4. Spread half of the cornbread batter in the prepared baking dish.
  5. Top with the chili mixture, then sprinkle 1 cup of cheddar cheese over it.
  6. Carefully spread the remaining cornbread batter over the top.
  7. Bake for 25–30 minutes, until the cornbread is golden brown and cooked through.
  8. Sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of cheddar cheese on top and return to the oven for a few minutes until melted.
  9. Garnish with sliced jalapeños and fresh cilantro. Serve warm.

Notes

  • Swap ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option.
  • For a vegetarian version, omit the meat and double the beans or add lentils.
  • Spice it up with hot sauce, extra chili powder, or diced chilies.
  • You can use boxed cornbread mix if you’re in a hurry, but homemade adds more flavor.
  • Garnish ideas: sour cream, avocado slices, or salsa on the side.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://cookedbymaya.com/loaded-chili-cheese-cornbread-bake/