One-Skillet Chili and Cornbread Bake
Looking for a quick and easy dinner that satisfies your comfort food cravings? This One-Skillet Chili and Cornbread Bake is the perfect solution. It’s a hearty, flavorful chili topped with a golden, buttery cornbread crust—all made in just one skillet! No need for extra dishes or complicated steps, just simple ingredients and bold flavors.
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Whether you’re making this for a cozy family meal or a casual get-together, this dish is sure to be a hit. Plus, it comes together in about 30 minutes, making it an excellent choice for busy weeknights. Let’s dive in and see why you’ll love this easy, delicious skillet meal!
Why You’ll Love One-Skillet Chili and Cornbread Bake
- One-Pan Wonder – Less mess, fewer dishes, and all the flavors in one skillet!
- Quick & Easy – Ready in about 30 minutes with simple ingredients.
- Comfort Food Favorite – A hearty chili topped with soft, buttery cornbread.
- Customizable – Swap the meat, beans, or spice level to fit your taste.
- Perfect for Leftovers – Tastes even better the next day!
What You Need to Make One-Skillet Chili and Cornbread Bake
Here’s what you’ll need to make this easy skillet meal. Exact amounts can be found in the recipe card below!
- Ground meat: Use beef, turkey, or even plant-based crumbles.
- Onion: Adds depth and flavor to the chili.
- McCormick chili spice blend: These packets make seasoning effortless.
- Chili beans & pinto beans: Bring protein and texture to the dish.
- Fire-roasted diced tomatoes: Adds a smoky, rich tomato base.
- Tomato paste & water: Helps thicken and enhance the chili.
- Cornbread mix: Your favorite boxed cornbread for a fluffy topping.
- Butter: Melted and brushed on top for extra deliciousness.
How to Make One-Skillet Chili and Cornbread Bake
1
Preheat oven to 375°F.
Cook the meat. In a large oven-safe skillet, brown the ground meat over medium heat until no longer pink.
2
Sauté the onions. Add diced onions to the skillet and cook until soft and translucent.
3
Build the chili. Stir in the chili spice blend, both types of beans, diced tomatoes, tomato paste, and water. Let it simmer for 5-7 minutes to meld flavors.
4
Prepare the cornbread mix according to package instructions.
Layer the cornbread. Pour the cornbread batter evenly over the chili mixture in the skillet. Do not mix it in—this creates that delicious cornbread topping!
5
Bake according to the time on your cornbread mix, usually 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Finish with butter. Brush melted butter on top for extra flavor.
Commonly Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of meat?
Yes! Ground beef is classic, but you can swap it for turkey, chicken, or even plant-based alternatives.
What can I add for extra spice?
Try adding diced jalapeños, cayenne pepper, or a dash of hot sauce to kick up the heat!
Can I make this ahead of time?
Absolutely! Prepare the chili portion ahead, then add the cornbread batter and bake when ready to serve.
One-Skillet Chili and Cornbread Bake
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground meat
- 1/2 onion diced
- 2 packets McCormick chili spice blend
- 1 can chili beans
- 1 can pinto beans
- 1 can fire roasted dice tomatoes
- 1 tsp tomato paste
- 1/4 cup water
- 1 box of your favorite cornbread
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375
- In a skillet, cook your meat until no longer pink. Add in onions to sauté. Then add in all other ingredients other than cornbread. And let it cook 5-7 minutes
- Mix cornbread mix together. Add on top of chili mixture (do not mix in, leave as a top layer). Bake in the oven as directed on cornbread box.
- Press with melted butter and enjoy!!
