Chili Pie with Green Chile and Cheddar Cornbread Crust

Intro

Ah, the comforting aroma of chili pie wafting through the kitchen, bringing back warm memories of family gatherings during chilly autumn evenings. I vividly recall my grandmother bustling around her modest kitchen, her apron dusted with flour, as she prepared this delightful dish with a twinkle in her eye. It was always a favorite at our dinner table, and every bite felt like a warm hug. Today, I’m excited to share this cherished recipe with you, hoping it fills your home with the same warmth and joy it brought to mine.

Why You’ll Love It

This Chili Pie with Green Chile and Cheddar Cornbread Crust is the perfect combination of hearty and comforting flavors. The savory chili base, rich with spices and tender vegetables, is topped with a cheesy, golden cornbread crust that adds a delightful contrast in texture. It’s a dish that brings people together—whether you’re serving it at a family dinner or a casual get-together, it never fails to impress. Plus, it’s a versatile recipe that can be adjusted to suit dietary preferences or ingredient availability.

Ingredients

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 yellow onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 (4-ounce) cans diced green chiles
• 1 pound ground beef
• 2 teaspoons chile powder, plus more for topping
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/2 cup water
• 1 (14-ounce) can diced tomatoes, with juices
• 1 (15-ounce) can cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 cup canned or frozen corn
• 3 cups shredded extra sharp cheddar cheese, divided
• 1 cup flour
• 1 cup cornmeal
• 1 tablespoon baking powder
• 1 teaspoon table salt
• 2 large eggs
• 1 cup milk
• 1/2 cup melted butter
• 1/2 cup sour cream

Instructions

1. In a large skillet, sauté the diced onion in olive oil over medium heat until soft and translucent, about 5 minutes. Season with salt and pepper.
2. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.
3. Remove two-thirds of the onion and garlic mixture from the pan and set aside.
4. Add the diced green chiles with their juices to the skillet and sauté for 2-3 minutes. Remove and set aside in a separate bowl.
5. In the same skillet, brown the ground beef, crumbling it as it cooks. Once cooked through, carefully drain any excess grease.
6. Add the reserved onion mixture back to the skillet along with the chile powder, Worcestershire sauce, oregano, smoked paprika, cinnamon, nutmeg, and water. Mix thoroughly.
7. Stir in the diced tomatoes with juices, cannellini beans, and corn. Mix well and cook for an additional 3-4 minutes over medium-low heat.
8. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and grease a 9×13 inch casserole dish.
9. Pour the meat mixture into the prepared casserole dish and spread evenly over the bottom. Sprinkle two cups of shredded cheddar cheese on top.
10. In a large bowl, combine the flour, cornmeal, baking powder, and table salt.
11. In a separate medium bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, melted butter, and sour cream.
12. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined.
13. Fold in the reserved onion/green chile mixture and the remaining cup of shredded cheddar cheese.
14. Spread the cornbread batter evenly over the meat mixture in the casserole dish. Sprinkle a little extra chile powder on top.
15. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cornbread comes out clean.
16. Let the chili pie set for 10 minutes before serving.

Tips

For the best results, make sure to use a high-quality extra sharp cheddar cheese for maximum flavor. If you’re in a pinch, you can use pre-shredded cheese, but freshly shredded cheese will melt better. Also, be sure to let the chili pie set for at least 10 minutes after baking to allow the flavors to meld together and make serving easier.

Variations & Substitutions

Feel free to customize this chili pie to suit your tastes or dietary preferences. You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for the beef for a leaner option. For a vegetarian version, omit the meat altogether and add more beans or vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini. If you like it spicy, add some chopped jalapeños to the chili mixture or use hot chile powder.

Storage

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply microwave individual portions or place the entire casserole dish in a 350°F oven until heated through. This dish also freezes well—wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil before freezing for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

FAQ

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the chili mixture and the cornbread batter separately a day in advance. Store them in the refrigerator, then assemble and bake when you’re ready to serve. This makes it a great option for busy weeknights or entertaining.

What can I serve with chili pie?

This dish is quite filling on its own, but it pairs wonderfully with a fresh green salad or some steamed vegetables. For an extra treat, serve it with a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of fresh cilantro on top.

Nutrition

While I don’t have the exact nutritional breakdown, this dish is a hearty meal rich in protein from the beef and beans, and it provides fiber from the beans and cornmeal. The cheese adds calcium, and the use of various spices contributes to its depth of flavor without adding extra calories.

Conclusion

This Chili Pie with Green Chile and Cheddar Cornbread Crust is more than just a meal; it’s a comforting experience that brings warmth to any occasion. I hope you enjoy making and sharing this dish as much as I do. Whether it’s the nostalgia of family dinners or the joy of discovering a new favorite, this recipe is sure to become a beloved staple in your home. Bon appétit!

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