Introduction
If you’re looking for a meal that’s warm, filling, and full of flavor, then a Loaded Chili Cheese Cornbread Bake is the perfect choice. It’s like comfort food in a dish—chili, melted cheese, and golden cornbread all baked together. The best part? It’s quick and easy to make, which means you can enjoy it even on a busy weeknight.
By the end of this guide, you’ll know exactly how to make this dish step by step, along with its nutritional breakdown. Plus, we’ll answer some common questions so you can cook it with confidence.
Ingredients – Loaded Chili Cheese Cornbread Bake
Here’s a list of the ingredients you’ll need for this delicious bake. The good news? Most of these are pantry staples, and you may already have them in your kitchen.
For the Chili Layer:
- 1 pound ground beef (or ground turkey for a lighter option)
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 can (8 oz) tomato sauce
- 2 tablespoons chili powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Cornbread Layer:
- 1 box cornbread mix (around 8.5 oz, like Jiffy)
- 1 egg
- ⅓ cup milk
For the Toppings:
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or a mix of cheddar and Monterey Jack)
- Optional: sliced jalapeños, chopped green onions, or sour cream
Step by Step Process – Loaded Chili Cheese Cornbread Bake
Cooking this recipe is super simple. Follow these steps, and you’ll have a tasty meal ready in no time.
Step 1: Cook the Chili
- In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until it’s browned.
- Add the chopped onion and garlic. Cook until the onion is soft.
- Stir in the beans, diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper.
- Let the chili simmer for about 10–15 minutes. This helps the flavors mix well.
Step 2: Prepare the Cornbread Batter
- In a mixing bowl, add the cornbread mix, egg, and milk.
- Stir until just combined (don’t overmix—it’s okay if it looks a little lumpy).
Step 3: Assemble the Bake
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Spread the cooked chili evenly in the dish as the first layer.
- Sprinkle ½ cup of shredded cheese over the chili.
- Pour the cornbread batter over the top and spread it gently.
- Add the rest of the shredded cheese on top for that extra cheesy layer.
Step 4: Bake
- Place the dish in the preheated oven.
- Bake for about 25–30 minutes, or until the cornbread is golden brown and a toothpick comes out clean when inserted into the middle.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
- Once baked, let it cool for about 5 minutes before serving.
- Add optional toppings like jalapeños, green onions, or a dollop of sour cream.
Nutritional Information
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | ~420 kcal |
| Protein | 22 g |
| Carbohydrates | 36 g |
| Fat | 20 g |
| Saturated Fat | 9 g |
| Fiber | 8 g |
| Sugar | 6 g |
| Sodium | 850 mg |
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes! Just skip the ground beef and add more beans or use a plant-based meat substitute.
Q2: Can I prepare this ahead of time?
Absolutely. You can cook the chili a day in advance, store it in the fridge, and then assemble with the cornbread batter when you’re ready to bake.
Q3: Can I use homemade cornbread instead of boxed mix?
Of course. If you prefer making cornbread from scratch, go for it. Just prepare your batter and layer it on top of the chili the same way.
Q4: What toppings go best with this bake?
Sour cream, avocado slices, jalapeños, fresh cilantro, or extra cheese are all great choices.
Q5: How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, pop a portion in the microwave or warm it in the oven.
Final Thoughts
The Loaded Chili Cheese Cornbread Bake is a meal that checks all the boxes—it’s quick, filling, and packed with flavor. The mix of spicy chili, gooey cheese, and golden cornbread makes it a dish that’s sure to impress your family or guests.
What makes it even better is how flexible the recipe is. You can adjust the spice level, swap out the protein, or add your favorite toppings. It’s the kind of dish that feels homemade and comforting, but doesn’t take hours to prepare.
So next time you’re craving something cozy and hearty, try this recipe. You’ll have a delicious, one-dish meal on the table that everyone will love.
