Oh wow, let me tell you about this loaded chili cheese cornbread bake recipe! It’s the ultimate comfort food, bringing together hearty chili, gooey cheese, and fluffy cornbread in one delicious dish. I remember the first time I made it for a family gathering; the kids couldn’t get enough, and my brother went back for seconds (and thirds!). It’s so flavorful and filling, perfect for chilly evenings or casual get-togethers. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll keep coming back for more—especially when you see how easy it is to whip up! Get ready for a flavor explosion!
Ingredients List
Here’s what you’ll need to make this amazing loaded chili cheese cornbread bake recipe. Grab these ingredients, and you’ll be on your way to a delicious meal in no time!
- 1 can chili (15 oz): Choose your favorite brand, and you can go for mild or spicy, depending on your heat preference!
- 1 cup shredded cheese: I love using a blend of cheddar and Monterey Jack for that perfect meltiness, but feel free to mix it up!
- 1 box cornbread mix: The convenience of a box mix makes this recipe super easy, but you can always make your own cornbread from scratch if you prefer!
- 1 egg: This helps bind the cornbread together and gives it that lovely texture.
- 1/3 cup milk: Use whole milk for richness, but any milk will do if you have a preference.
- 1/2 cup chopped onions: I usually go for yellow onions, but red or green onions can add a nice twist too!
- 1/4 cup chopped bell peppers: A splash of color and sweetness! You can use any color bell pepper you like—green, red, yellow, or even orange.
Make sure everything is prepped and ready to go, and let’s get cooking!
How to Prepare Loaded Chili Cheese Cornbread Bake Recipe
Alright, let’s dive into the fun part—making this loaded chili cheese cornbread bake recipe! I promise, it’s super simple, and the delicious aroma will have everyone gathering in the kitchen. Here’s how you do it:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This step is crucial, as you want your bake to rise beautifully and get that golden crust!
- In a mixing bowl, combine the cornbread mix, egg, and milk. Mix until just blended—don’t overdo it! A few lumps are totally fine.
- Stir in the chopped onions and bell peppers. This adds not only flavor but also a lovely crunch! You can even taste the mixture at this point to see if you want to add a pinch of salt or pepper.
- Spread half of the cornbread mixture in a greased baking dish. Make sure to get an even layer; this will be the base for your chili.
- Layer the chili right on top of the cornbread. Just pour it out and spread it into an even layer—get ready for that rich, meaty goodness!
- Now, sprinkle your shredded cheese over the chili. Don’t hold back here; the more cheese, the better!
- Pour the remaining cornbread mixture over the cheese. Make sure to cover it completely so that the cheese doesn’t burn.
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. You’ll know it’s done when your kitchen smells amazing!
Once it’s out of the oven, let it cool for a few minutes before slicing. Trust me, the wait will be worth it as you dig into that cheesy, chili goodness!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: This loaded chili cheese cornbread bake recipe comes together in no time, making it perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings!
- Hearty and Filling: With layers of chili, cheese, and cornbread, this dish is incredibly satisfying—everyone will leave the table happy and full!
- Flavor Explosion: The combination of spicy chili, melty cheese, and sweet cornbread creates a mouthwatering taste that’s simply irresistible.
- Perfect for Sharing: Whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a party with friends, this bake is a crowd-pleaser that’s sure to impress.
- Customizable: You can easily tweak the recipe to suit your taste—add more veggies, spice it up, or swap out the cheese for your favorite!
- Leftover Heaven: If you have any leftovers (which is rare!), this dish reheats beautifully, making for a delicious lunch or dinner the next day.
Tips for Success
To make sure your loaded chili cheese cornbread bake recipe turns out perfectly every single time, here are some of my best tips! Trust me, these little nuggets of wisdom can really elevate your dish.
- Don’t Overmix: When you’re combining the cornbread mix, egg, and milk, mix just until blended. Overmixing can lead to dense cornbread, and nobody wants that!
- Grease It Well: Be generous with the greasing of your baking dish. This helps the cornbread come out easily and prevents any sticky situations.
- Layer Wisely: When layering the chili and cheese, make sure to cover the entire surface of the cornbread base. This ensures every bite has that delicious chili and cheesy goodness!
- Keep an Eye on the Oven: Ovens can be unpredictable, so check your bake a few minutes early. You want that golden crust, but nobody likes a burnt top!
- Let It Rest: After baking, let the dish cool for about 5-10 minutes before slicing. This helps everything set up nicely, making it easier to serve!
- Experiment with Ingredients: Feel free to play around with the veggies or type of cheese you use. Adding jalapeños can give it a kick, or throw in some corn for added sweetness!
- Use Leftover Chili: If you have leftover chili from a previous meal, don’t hesitate to use it! It’ll add even more flavor and save you some time.
Follow these tips, and you’ll be the star of the kitchen with a loaded chili cheese cornbread bake that everyone will rave about!
Variations
One of the best things about this loaded chili cheese cornbread bake recipe is how adaptable it is! You can easily customize it to match your taste buds or what you have in your pantry. Here are some fun variations to try:
- Cheese Galore: Switch up the cheese! Try pepper jack for a spicy kick, or a sharp cheddar for that extra punch. You can even blend a few different cheeses for a melty masterpiece!
- Spice It Up: If you love heat, add diced jalapeños to the chili layer or sprinkle some cayenne pepper into the cornbread mix. You could also mix in some chili powder or cumin for an extra flavor boost.
- Veggie Delight: Incorporate more veggies like corn, zucchini, or even spinach. Just sauté them lightly before adding to the mix, and they’ll add a lovely texture and flavor!
- Meaty Goodness: Want to add some meat? Ground beef, turkey, or even sausage can be browned and mixed with the chili for a heartier dish. Just make sure to drain excess fat!
- Sweet Twist: For a sweeter cornbread, consider adding a tablespoon of honey or maple syrup to the batter. It creates a delightful contrast with the savory chili!
- Herb Infusion: Add freshness by mixing in chopped cilantro, parsley, or even green onions into the cornbread batter. It’ll brighten the dish and add a pop of color!
- Gluten-Free Option: Use a gluten-free cornbread mix or make your own from scratch using gluten-free flour. You can still enjoy all the deliciousness without the gluten!
Feel free to get creative and mix and match these ideas. The best part is, no matter how you customize it, it’s guaranteed to be a hit!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
So, you’ve made this delicious loaded chili cheese cornbread bake, and now you’ve got some leftovers—lucky you! Storing and reheating this dish is super easy, and I’ve got a few tips to help you keep that amazing flavor and texture intact.
First off, let the bake cool completely before you start storing it. This helps avoid any moisture buildup that can make it soggy. Once it’s cool, you can cut it into slices or leave it whole, depending on your preference. Just place it in an airtight container, or wrap it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. It’ll stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze it! Just make sure to wrap it well to prevent freezer burn. It’ll be good in the freezer for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, just pull it out and let it thaw in the fridge overnight.
Now, let’s talk reheating! For the best results, I suggest reheating in the oven. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C), then place the slices on a baking sheet. Cover them loosely with aluminum foil to prevent them from drying out. Bake for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. If you want that cheesy top to be extra gooey, you can remove the foil for the last few minutes!
If you’re in a hurry, you can also reheat individual slices in the microwave. Just pop a slice on a microwave-safe plate and cover it with a damp paper towel to keep it from drying out. Heat for about 1-2 minutes, checking to see if it’s warmed to your liking.
With these storage and reheating tips, you can enjoy your loaded chili cheese cornbread bake anytime you want, without losing that deliciousness! Happy eating!
Nutritional Information
So, you’re probably wondering about the nutritional info for this loaded chili cheese cornbread bake recipe! While I always say it’s best to enjoy food without too much worry, having a rough idea of the nutrition can be helpful. Here’s an estimated breakdown per slice, based on the ingredients used:
- Calories: Approximately 250
- Fat: About 10g
- Saturated Fat: Roughly 5g
- Cholesterol: Approximately 35mg
- Sodium: Around 600mg
- Carbohydrates: About 32g
- Fiber: Approximately 2g
- Protein: Roughly 8g
- Sugar: About 3g
Keep in mind, these values can vary based on the specific brands and ingredients you use. It’s always a good idea to check the labels if you’re tracking your intake closely! Enjoy your delicious baked goodness without stress—after all, it’s all about balance, right?
FAQ Section
Can I use homemade chili for this recipe?
Absolutely! Using homemade chili can add a personal touch and extra flavor to your loaded chili cheese cornbread bake recipe. Just make sure it’s not too watery, or it might affect the texture of the cornbread.
What can I substitute for the cornbread mix?
If you don’t have cornbread mix on hand, you can make your own with a simple blend of cornmeal, flour, baking powder, sugar, and salt. Just adjust the liquid ingredients accordingly!
Can I make this dish in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the loaded chili cheese cornbread bake ahead of time! Just assemble it, cover it tightly, and store it in the fridge for up to a day before baking. When you’re ready to eat, just pop it in the oven!
How can I make this recipe spicier?
If you’re looking to turn up the heat, consider using spicy chili or adding jalapeños to the chili layer. You can also mix in some cayenne pepper or chili flakes into the cornbread batter for an extra kick!
What toppings work best with this bake?
Oh, there are so many delicious options! I love topping my loaded chili cheese cornbread bake with a dollop of sour cream, a sprinkle of chopped green onions, or even sliced jalapeños for that extra zest. It adds a nice contrast to the rich flavors!
For more delicious recipes, check out our blog for inspiration!
For a deeper dive into the nutritional aspects of cornbread, you can visit Healthline for more information.
And if you’re looking for a great chili recipe to pair with this dish, check out this sweet potato and black bean chili recipe!
Print
Loaded Chili Cheese Cornbread Bake Recipe for Comforting Joy
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A hearty and flavorful dish combining chili, cheese, and cornbread.
Ingredients
- 1 can chili (15 oz)
- 1 cup shredded cheese
- 1 box cornbread mix
- 1 egg
- 1/3 cup milk
- 1/2 cup chopped onions
- 1/4 cup chopped bell peppers
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
- In a mixing bowl, combine cornbread mix, egg, and milk.
- Stir in onions and bell peppers.
- Spread half of the cornbread mixture in a greased baking dish.
- Layer the chili on top of the cornbread.
- Sprinkle shredded cheese over the chili.
- Pour the remaining cornbread mixture over the cheese.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
Notes
- Adjust spice level by choosing mild or spicy chili.
- Top with sour cream or jalapeños if desired.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 8g
- Cholesterol: 35mg
Keywords: loaded chili cheese cornbread bake recipe