Chili Pot Pie With Cornbread Crust Recipe

There’s nothing quite like a warm and comforting meal on a chilly evening, and this Chili Pot Pie with Cornbread Crust delivers just that. This recipe combines the rich, hearty flavors of chili with a golden, slightly sweet cornbread crust, making it perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or just a cozy night in. It’s an easy and satisfying meal that comes together quickly with simple ingredients you likely already have on hand.

Why You’ll Love This Chili Pot Pie Recipe

This Chili Pot Pie with Cornbread Crust is:

• Perfect for Chilly Nights: The combination of spicy chili and sweet cornbread is a great way to warm up.
• Easy to Make: It requires just a few simple steps and everyday ingredients.
• Kid-Friendly: The mild chili seasoning makes it suitable for all ages.
• Customizable: You can easily adjust the ingredients to suit your family’s taste or dietary needs.

Ingredients for Chili Pot Pie with Cornbread Crust

Chili Ingredients:

• 1 lb. ground beef – Provides a rich, hearty base.
• 2 (8 oz) cans of tomato sauce – Adds a tangy, smooth texture to the chili.
• 1 (15 oz) can of kidney beans, undrained – Gives the chili added protein and texture.
• 1 (1.25 oz) packet of chili seasoning – A blend of spices that brings warmth and flavor.

Cornbread Ingredients:

• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour – Forms the base of the cornbread mixture.
• 2 Tbsp. granulated sugar – Adds a touch of sweetness to balance the spice.
• 3/4 cup finely ground cornmeal – Creates the classic cornbread texture.
• 1/2 tsp. salt – Enhances the flavors.
• 1/2 tsp. baking soda – Helps the cornbread rise.
• 2/3 cup buttermilk – Adds moisture and a slight tang.
• 1/4 cup canola oil – Provides tenderness and richness.
• 1 egg – Binds the ingredients together for the perfect cornbread.

Toppings:

• Shredded cheese – For a creamy, melty finish.
• Sour cream – Adds a cool, tangy contrast to the warm chili.

this RECIPE

Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need

• Skillet
• Medium-sized mixing bowls
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Baking sheet
• Four 9-ounce ramekins or oven-safe dishes
• Wooden spoon or spatula

Step-by-Step Preparation Guide

1. Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) to ensure it’s ready when your chili pot pies are assembled.
2. Prepare the Chili: In a skillet over medium-high heat, cook the ground beef until it is browned, breaking it into crumbles with a spoon or spatula. Drain any excess fat.
3. Add the Tomato Sauce and Beans: Pour in the tomato sauce and undrained kidney beans. Sprinkle in the chili seasoning packet, stirring well to combine all the flavors. Bring this mixture to a boil.
4. Simmer the Chili: Once boiling, reduce the heat to medium-low and cover the skillet. Let it simmer for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally. This step allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
5. Mix the Dry Cornbread Ingredients: In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, cornmeal, salt, and baking soda until well combined.
6. Prepare the Cornbread Batter: In another bowl, combine the buttermilk, canola oil, and egg. Stir until smooth. Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix to keep the cornbread light and fluffy.
7. Assemble the Pot Pies: Spoon 1 cup of chili mixture into each of the four 9-ounce ramekins. Spread about 1/2 cup of the cornbread batter evenly over the chili in each ramekin.
8. Bake: Place the ramekins on a baking sheet to catch any spills. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until the cornbread is golden and cooked through.
9. Serve Immediately: Top with shredded cheese and a dollop of sour cream. Serve hot for a comforting meal that everyone will love.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Overcooking the Ground Beef: Avoid browning the beef for too long, which can make it dry and chewy.
• Undercooked Cornbread: Check the doneness of the cornbread by inserting a toothpick in the center. If it comes out clean, it’s ready.
• Not Draining Excess Fat: Always drain the excess fat from the ground beef to avoid a greasy texture.

Chili Pot Pie Recipe Tips and Tricks

• Make It Spicier: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chopped jalapeños to the chili mixture for an extra kick.
• Vegetarian Option: Swap the ground beef with a meatless alternative like lentils or textured vegetable protein.
• Use Leftover Chili: This recipe is perfect for using up any leftover chili you have in the fridge.
• Cornbread Substitutions: If you don’t have buttermilk, use regular milk with a teaspoon of lemon juice or vinegar added.

Serving Suggestions and Presentation Tips

• Serve the chili pot pies with a side of fresh salad or steamed vegetables to balance the richness of the dish.
• Top with fresh herbs like cilantro or green onions for added color and flavor.
• For a unique twist, try adding a drizzle of honey over the cornbread crust just before serving.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

To store, let the pot pies cool to room temperature, then cover them tightly with plastic wrap or transfer them to an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 3 days.

For reheating, place the pot pies in a preheated 350°F (175°C) oven for about 10-15 minutes or until warmed through. Alternatively, microwave individual portions for 1-2 minutes on high, checking for doneness.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I use a different type of bean?
Yes, you can substitute kidney beans with black beans, pinto beans, or even chickpeas depending on your preference.

How can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Simply replace the all-purpose flour in the cornbread mixture with a gluten-free flour blend.

Can I freeze the leftovers?
Absolutely! Once cooled, wrap the ramekins tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

What can I use if I don’t have ramekins?
You can use any oven-safe dish or a large baking dish and adjust the baking time accordingly.

Conclusion

This Chili Pot Pie with Cornbread Crust is a wonderful dish for those nights when you crave something comforting and delicious. It’s easy to make, family-friendly, and offers room for creativity with different toppings and variations. Try it tonight and experience the perfect blend of flavors in every bite! If you enjoyed this recipe, please share it with your friends and family, and don’t forget to subscribe to our blog for more delightful recipes.

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