Skillet Chili Cornbread Pot Pie

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You know those times when you have the energy to cook something, but the idea of making several dishes to make up a complete meal is completely beyond you? Of course, we know that feeling, so we’ve put together everything we could think of in this one recipe, so that when we’re done cooking, we can wipe our hands of it and get comfortable before we put dinner on the table.

Inspired by the proven chicken pie classic, we decided to head southwest, Texas, and turn our meal into a chili pie. We replaced the chili beef pie with chicken and used a cornbread filling instead of the traditional flaky crust. This stuff is ridiculously good. Although you can use store-bought chili—certainly a huge time saver—we figured we could make a batch from scratch and then fill it with a canned mixed cornbread filling. A bit of work at first, followed by an easy solution for a really good cornbread to complement the spicy and tangy flavors of the chili.

Speaking of spices, we went a little crazy with 2 tablespoons of chili powder; it’s really not too spicy, but it adds great flavor… if it seems too much, feel free to lighten it up a bit. This all-in-one dinner is delicious and we know you’ll be hooked after the first time you make it. Discover it and see for yourself!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Skillet Chili Cornbread Pot Pie brings together the comforting flavors of chili with the sweet, crumbly texture of cornbread. It’s a one-pan wonder that’s perfect for busy weeknights or cozy weekends. Plus, it’s a versatile recipe that can be adjusted to your taste preferences.

Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need

• Large ovenproof skillet
• Medium-sized mixing bowl
• Wooden spoon
• Whisk

Ingredients

For the Chili:

• 1 1/2 pounds of ground beef
• 2 cans of tomato sauce
• 1 can of diced tomatoes with green peppers
• 1 can of red or pinto beans, rinsed and drained
• 1 can of black beans, rinsed and drained
• 1 yellow onion, finely chopped
• 4 cloves of garlic, chopped
• 2 tablespoons chili powder
• 2 teaspoons of cumin
• 1 teaspoon of oregano
• 2 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil
• Kosher salt and freshly ground pepper to taste

For the Cornbread Topping:

• 2 packages of cornbread mix (8 oz each)
• 2 eggs
• 2/3 cup of milk
• 1 can of creamed corn
• 1 cup grated cheddar cheese, optional

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 400º F.

2. In a large ovenproof skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat and sauté the onion until softened and translucent, for about 5 minutes.

3. Stir in garlic and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes or until fragrant.

4. Add beef to onion and garlic mixture and cook until browned, 8-10 minutes, then season with chili powder, cumin, oregano, salt, and pepper and stir to combine.

5. Add tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, and all the beans and stir until blended.

6. Reduce heat to medium-low and simmer, stirring occasionally, for 15-20 minutes. Taste and adjust seasoning, if necessary.

7. While the chili is simmering, prepare the cornbread by whisking the cornbread mixture, eggs, and milk in a large bowl. Once mixed, stir in the creamed corn and cheddar cheese, if desired.

8. Pour the cornbread mixture into the skillet over the chili and spread it in an even layer.

9. Place the skillet in the oven and cook the cornbread until the chili mixture boils, for 20 to 25 minutes. Serve hot. Enjoy!

Tips for Success

• Ensure the cornbread batter is evenly spread over the chili for uniform cooking.
• Adjust the level of chili powder according to your spice preference.

Additional Tips or Variations

• For a vegetarian version, substitute the ground beef with extra beans or a meat substitute.
• Add jalapeños or green chilies for an extra kick.

Nutritional Highlights (Per Serving)

This dish is rich in protein and fiber, with a satisfying blend of carbohydrates and healthy fats, making it a well-rounded meal option.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the chili portion ahead of time and store it in the fridge. Add the cornbread topping and bake when you’re ready to serve.

What can I serve with this pot pie?

This dish is a meal on its own, but you can serve it with a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables for a more balanced meal.

Conclusion

We invite you to try this Skillet Chili Cornbread Pot Pie and experience the delightful combination of flavors and textures. Share your creations and let us know how it turns out. Happy cooking!

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