Name: Cornbread-Topped Skillet Chili Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 50 min
Total time: 1 h
Yield: 8
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 tbsp olive oil; 1 lb ground turkey; 1 cup onion; 1 cup green bell pepper; ½ Jalapeno; 2 tsp garlic; 2 cans tomato sauce; 1 can tomatoes; 1 can kidney beans; 1 tbsp chili powder; 1 tbsp brown sugar; 1½ tsp oregano; 1 tsp salt; 1 tsp cumin; For the Cornbread Topping:; 1 cup cornmeal; 1 cup all purpose flour; 1 tsp baking powder; ⅛ tsp salt; ½ cup unsalted butter; ¼ cup brown sugar; 1 large egg; 1 cup buttermilk; 1 cup corn

This hearty cornbread-topped skillet chili combines savory ground turkey, onions, and peppers with a sweet and spicy cornbread crust. Perfect for a cozy family dinner, this dish brings together the rich flavors of chili with the comforting texture of cornbread, all baked in a single skillet.

Photos of Cornbread-Topped Skillet Chili Recipe

When heading to the supermarket, note that jalapeño, buttermilk, and cornmeal might not be in your usual pantry stock. Jalapeños add a spicy kick, while buttermilk gives the cornbread a tender texture. Cornmeal is essential for that classic cornbread flavor and texture.

Ingredients for Cornbread-Topped Skillet Chili

Olive oil: Used for sautéing the ingredients and adding a subtle richness.

Ground turkey: A lean protein base for the chili.

Onion: Adds sweetness and depth of flavor.

Green bell pepper: Contributes a mild, sweet flavor and crunch.

Jalapeño: Adds heat and spice to the chili.

Garlic: Enhances the overall savory flavor.

Tomato sauce: Provides a rich, tangy base for the chili.

Canned tomatoes: Adds texture and additional tomato flavor.

Kidney beans: Offer a creamy texture and protein.

Chili powder: Brings warmth and spice to the dish.

Brown sugar: Balances the heat with a touch of sweetness.

Oregano: Adds an earthy, aromatic flavor.

Salt: Enhances all the other flavors.

Cumin: Contributes a warm, smoky aroma.

Cornmeal: Key ingredient for the cornbread topping.

All purpose flour: Provides structure to the cornbread.

Baking powder: Helps the cornbread rise and become fluffy.

Unsalted butter: Adds moisture and richness to the cornbread.

Large egg: Binds the cornbread ingredients together.

Buttermilk: Gives the cornbread a tender crumb and slight tang.

Corn: Adds a sweet crunch to the cornbread topping.

One reader, Abbey Noe says:

This cornbread-topped skillet chili recipe is a game-changer! The chili is hearty and flavorful, while the cornbread topping adds the perfect touch of sweetness. It's easy to make and absolutely delicious. My family loved it!

Abbey Noe

Techniques Required

How to sauté: Heat oil in a skillet and cook ingredients until browned and cooked through, stirring frequently. How to preheat the oven: Set the oven to the desired temperature and allow it to reach that temperature before baking. How to whisk: Combine ingredients by beating them together with a whisk until smooth. How to bake: Place the skillet in the oven and cook until the cornbread is golden on top and cooked through.

How To Make Cornbread-Topped Skillet Chili

Top your favorite skillet chili with cornbread batter, bake in the oven for 30 minutes and you’ve just made yourself the ultimate comfort food.

Preparation: 10 minutes

Cooking: 50 minutes

Total: 1 hour

Serves:

Ingredients

1tbspolive oil
1lbground turkey,or beef
1cuponion,chopped
1cupgreen bell pepper,chopped, or any color
½jalapeño,finely chopped
2tspgarlic,minced
2canstomato sauce
1cantomatoes,diced
1cankidney beans
1tbspchili powder
1tbspbrown sugar,light or dark, packed
1½tsporegano,dried
1tspsalt
1tspcumin

For the Cornbread Topping:

1cupcornmeal
1cupall purpose flour,spoon & leveled
1tspbaking powder
⅛tspsalt
½cupunsalted butter,melted and slightly cooled
¼cupbrown sugar,light or dark, packed
1large egg,at room temperature
1cupbuttermilk,or whole milk, at room temperature
1cupcorn,fresh, frozen, or canned, optional

Instructions

In a large oven-proof skillet over medium heat, heat the oil for 1 minute. Add the ground turkey, onion, peppers, jalapeño, and garlic.
Sauté until browned and cooked through, breaking up with a spoon as you go for about 10 minutes.
Stir in the rest of the chili ingredients then reduce to medium-low heat. Cover and allow to simmer for 15 minutes.
Meanwhile, preheat the oven to 375 degrees F.
Whisk all of the cornbread ingredients together in a large bowl. Remove the chili from heat and spread the cornbread batter on top.
Bake for 30 minutes or until the cornbread is golden on top and cooked through. Serve warm.

Nutrition

Calories: 486.26kcal
Fat: 20.15g
Saturated Fat: 9.35g
Trans Fat: 0.53g
Monounsaturated Fat: 6.54g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 2.72g
Carbohydrates: 57.19g
Fiber: 7.28g
Sugar: 15.48g
Protein: 21.93g
Cholesterol: 94.10mg
Sodium: 930.67mg
Calcium: 161.45mg
Potassium: 898.34mg
Iron: 4.96mg
Vitamin A: 173.64µg
Vitamin C: 29.89mg

Technique Tip for This Recipe

When sautéing the ground turkey, onion, green bell pepper, jalapeño, and garlic in the skillet, ensure you break up the meat thoroughly and evenly distribute the vegetables. This not only helps in even cooking but also allows the flavors to meld together beautifully. Using a wooden spoon or spatula can help achieve a finer texture.

How to Save Time on Making This Recipe

Pre-chop vegetables: Prepare the onion, green bell pepper, and jalapeño in advance and store them in the fridge.

Use canned ingredients: Opt for canned tomato sauce, canned tomatoes, and canned kidney beans to save prep time.

Pre-mix cornbread batter: Combine the cornmeal, all-purpose flour, baking powder, salt, unsalted butter, brown sugar, egg, buttermilk, and corn ahead of time and refrigerate.

One-pot cooking: Use an oven-proof skillet to cook the chili and bake the cornbread topping in the same dish.

Substitute Ingredients For Cornbread-Topped Skillet Chili Recipe

olive oil - Substitute with canola oil: Canola oil has a neutral flavor and similar cooking properties.
ground turkey - Substitute with ground chicken: Ground chicken has a similar texture and mild flavor.
onion - Substitute with shallots: Shallots provide a milder and slightly sweeter flavor.
green bell pepper - Substitute with red bell pepper: Red bell peppers are sweeter and add a vibrant color.
jalapeno - Substitute with serrano pepper: Serrano peppers have a similar heat level and flavor profile.
garlic - Substitute with garlic powder: Garlic powder can be used in a pinch, though fresh garlic is preferred for its robust flavor.
tomato sauce - Substitute with crushed tomatoes: Crushed tomatoes provide a similar consistency and rich tomato flavor.
tomatoes - Substitute with diced tomatoes: Diced tomatoes offer a similar texture and flavor.
kidney beans - Substitute with black beans: Black beans have a similar texture and slightly different flavor that works well in chili.
chili powder - Substitute with cayenne pepper and paprika: A mix of cayenne pepper and paprika can mimic the heat and smokiness of chili powder.
brown sugar - Substitute with honey: Honey adds sweetness and a slightly different flavor profile.
oregano - Substitute with thyme: Thyme has a similar earthy flavor that complements chili.
salt - Substitute with soy sauce: Soy sauce adds saltiness and umami flavor.
cumin - Substitute with ground coriander: Ground coriander has a slightly citrusy flavor that can complement the chili.
cornmeal - Substitute with polenta: Polenta is a coarser grind of cornmeal and can be used similarly in cornbread.
all purpose flour - Substitute with whole wheat flour: Whole wheat flour adds a slightly nutty flavor and more fiber.
baking powder - Substitute with baking soda and cream of tartar: A mix of baking soda and cream of tartar can replicate the leavening effect.
unsalted butter - Substitute with margarine: Margarine can be used as a direct substitute for butter in baking.
brown sugar - Substitute with maple syrup: Maple syrup adds sweetness and a distinct flavor.
egg - Substitute with flax egg: A flax egg (1 tbsp ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tbsp water) can be used as a vegan alternative.
buttermilk - Substitute with milk and lemon juice: Mix 1 cup of milk with 1 tbsp of lemon juice to create a buttermilk substitute.
corn - Substitute with frozen corn: Frozen corn can be used in place of fresh corn and offers a similar texture and flavor.

Best Way to Present This Dish

Serve in individual cast iron skillets: Present the cornbread-topped skillet chili in small, personal-sized cast iron skillets to maintain the rustic charm while ensuring each guest gets a perfectly portioned serving.
Garnish with fresh herbs: Add a touch of elegance by garnishing the dish with finely chopped cilantro or parsley, which will add a burst of color and freshness.
Add a dollop of sour cream: Place a small dollop of sour cream on top of the cornbread. This not only enhances the visual appeal but also adds a creamy contrast to the spicy chili.
Sprinkle with cheese: Lightly sprinkle some finely grated cheddar cheese over the top of the cornbread just before serving. The cheese will melt slightly, adding a rich, savory note.
Serve with a side of pickled jalapeños: Offer a small side dish of pickled jalapeños to provide an extra kick for those who enjoy more heat. This also adds a nice acidic balance to the dish.
Drizzle with honey butter: For a touch of sweetness, drizzle a bit of honey butter over the cornbread topping. This will create a delightful contrast with the savory chili.
Use microgreens for a modern touch: Top the dish with a few microgreens to give it a contemporary, high-end restaurant feel. This adds a layer of sophistication and a slight crunch.
Serve with a side of cornbread sticks: Complement the dish with cornbread sticks served on the side. This not only ties in with the cornbread topping but also provides an additional texture.
Pair with a robust red wine: Suggest a pairing with a bold red wine, such as a Zinfandel or a Syrah, which will complement the rich flavors of the chili and the sweetness of the cornbread.
Use a contrasting plate: Serve the individual skillets on a dark, matte-finish plate to make the vibrant colors of the chili and cornbread pop, enhancing the overall visual appeal.

Best Tools for This Recipe

Oven-proof skillet: A large, heavy-duty skillet that can be used both on the stovetop and in the oven. Essential for cooking the chili and then baking the cornbread topping.
Wooden spoon: Useful for breaking up the ground turkey and stirring the ingredients as they cook.
Chef's knife: For chopping the onion, green bell pepper, jalapeño, and garlic.
Cutting board: A sturdy surface for chopping vegetables and other ingredients.
Measuring spoons: For accurately measuring out spices and other small-quantity ingredients like chili powder, brown sugar, oregano, salt, and cumin.
Measuring cups: For measuring larger quantities of ingredients such as the cornmeal, all-purpose flour, and buttermilk.
Mixing bowl: A large bowl for whisking together the cornbread ingredients.
Whisk: For mixing the cornbread batter to ensure it is smooth and well combined.
Can opener: To open the cans of tomato sauce, tomatoes, and kidney beans.
Spatula: For spreading the cornbread batter evenly over the chili before baking.
Oven: Preheated to 375 degrees F, used for baking the cornbread-topped chili until golden and cooked through.

How to Store / Freeze This Recipe

Storing Guidelines:
- Allow the chili and cornbread topping to cool completely before storing.
- Transfer the dish to an airtight container or cover the skillet tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
- Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
- For best results, reheat in the oven at 350 degrees F until warmed through, about 15-20 minutes. Alternatively, you can reheat individual portions in the microwave for 1-2 minutes.
Freezing Guidelines:
- Cool the chili and cornbread topping completely.
- Transfer to a freezer-safe container or wrap the entire skillet tightly with plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil.
- Label with the date and freeze for up to 3 months.
- To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator.
- Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F and bake until heated through, about 25-30 minutes. If reheating individual portions, microwave on a defrost setting for 3-4 minutes, then heat on high for 1-2 minutes until warm.

How to Reheat Leftovers

Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F. Place the leftover cornbread-topped skillet chili in an oven-safe dish. Cover with aluminum foil to prevent the cornbread from drying out. Heat for about 20-25 minutes or until warmed through.
For a quicker method, use the microwave. Transfer a portion of the chili and cornbread to a microwave-safe dish. Cover with a microwave-safe lid or a damp paper towel. Heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through to ensure even heating.
If you prefer a crispy cornbread top, use a toaster oven. Preheat the toaster oven to 350 degrees F. Place the leftovers on a toaster oven tray and cover loosely with foil. Heat for 15-20 minutes, then remove the foil for the last 5 minutes to crisp up the cornbread.
For stovetop reheating, scoop the chili into a saucepan and heat over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally. To reheat the cornbread, place it in a non-stick skillet over low heat, cover, and warm for a few minutes on each side.
If you're in a rush, use an air fryer. Preheat the air fryer to 350 degrees F. Place the leftovers in the air fryer basket, cover with foil, and heat for 10-15 minutes. Remove the foil for the last few minutes to crisp up the cornbread.
For an added twist, reheat the chili in a pot on the stove and crumble the cornbread into it, creating a hearty chili and cornbread mash. Heat over medium-low, stirring occasionally, until warmed through.

Random Fact About This Recipe

A fun fact about this cornbread-topped skillet chili recipe is that it combines the hearty flavors of chili with the comforting texture of cornbread. This fusion dish is perfect for a one-pan meal, making cleanup a breeze.

Is This Recipe Economical for Home Cooking?

Analyzing the cost-effectiveness of this cornbread-topped skillet chili recipe, it scores a solid 8 out of 10. The use of ground turkey, onion, green bell pepper, and pantry staples like tomato sauce and kidney beans keeps costs low. The cornbread topping ingredients, including cornmeal, buttermilk, and unsalted butter, are also budget-friendly. For a household of four, the approximate cost is around $15-$20 USD, making it an affordable and hearty meal option.

Healthy or Unhealthy?

This cornbread-topped skillet chili recipe is a delightful comfort food, but let's break down its health profile. The ground turkey is a lean protein, which is a great start. The inclusion of vegetables like onion, green bell pepper, and jalapeño adds fiber and essential vitamins. However, the recipe does have some areas that could be improved for a healthier twist.

The use of 1 tbsp of olive oil is reasonable, but the cornbread topping introduces a significant amount of butter and brown sugar, which increases the calorie and fat content. Additionally, the canned tomato sauce and tomatoes may contain added sodium, and the brown sugar in the chili and cornbread adds unnecessary sugar.

Replace ground turkey with ground chicken or a plant-based protein to reduce fat.
Use low-sodium or no-salt-added canned tomatoes and tomato sauce.
Reduce the amount of brown sugar in both the chili and cornbread topping.
Substitute half of the butter in the cornbread with unsweetened applesauce to cut down on fat.
Use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour for added fiber.
Add more vegetables like zucchini or carrots to increase the nutrient content.
Consider using Greek yogurt instead of buttermilk for added protein and reduced fat.

Editor's Thoughts on This Recipe

This cornbread-topped skillet chili recipe is a delightful fusion of hearty chili and comforting cornbread. The ground turkey and mix of vegetables provide a robust base, while the spices add depth and warmth. The cornbread topping, with its buttery and slightly sweet profile, complements the savory chili perfectly. Baking it all together in one skillet not only enhances the flavors but also makes for an easy, one-pan meal. It's a satisfying dish that's perfect for a cozy dinner, offering a balanced mix of protein, fiber, and comforting carbs.

Enhance Your Cornbread-Topped Skillet Chili Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Grilled Asparagus with Lemon Zest: Add a touch of brightness to your meal with grilled asparagus drizzled with fresh lemon zest. The smoky flavor of the asparagus pairs beautifully with the hearty cornbread-topped skillet chili, creating a delightful contrast in textures and tastes.

Creamy Avocado and Tomato Salad: Balance the rich flavors of the chili with a refreshing avocado and tomato salad. The creamy avocado and juicy tomatoes provide a cool, crisp counterpoint to the warm, spicy chili, making each bite a harmonious blend of flavors.

Garlic Parmesan Roasted Potatoes: For a comforting and savory side, consider garlic parmesan roasted potatoes. The crispy potatoes with a hint of garlic and a sprinkle of parmesan cheese add a satisfying crunch that complements the soft cornbread topping.

Mango and Black Bean Salsa: Introduce a burst of color and flavor with a mango and black bean salsa. The sweetness of the mango and the earthiness of the black beans create a vibrant and zesty side that enhances the overall dining experience.

Cilantro Lime Rice: Elevate your meal with a side of cilantro lime rice. The fragrant cilantro and zesty lime infuse the rice with a fresh, tangy flavor that perfectly complements the robust chili, making each spoonful a delightful journey for your taste buds.

Other Alternative Recipes Similar to This

Turkey Chili Stuffed Peppers: Imagine the hearty goodness of chili nestled inside vibrant bell peppers. This dish is a colorful, nutritious twist on classic chili, perfect for a family dinner or a meal prep option.

Sweet Potato Chili: Combine the sweetness of sweet potatoes with the savory depth of chili. This recipe is a delightful balance of flavors and textures, making it a comforting and wholesome meal.

Chili Mac and Cheese: Merge two comfort food classics into one irresistible dish. This chili mac and cheese is creamy, cheesy, and packed with bold flavors, perfect for a cozy night in.

Vegetarian Chili: Packed with a variety of vegetables and beans, this vegetarian chili is hearty and satisfying. It's a great option for a meatless Monday or any day you crave a nutritious, flavorful meal.

Chili-Stuffed Baked Potatoes: Transform your baked potatoes into a hearty meal by stuffing them with savory chili. This dish is easy to make and perfect for a comforting dinner.

Suggested Appetizers and Desserts for This Recipe

Appetizers:

Stuffed Mushrooms: Delight your guests with these savory stuffed mushrooms. Filled with a blend of cream cheese, garlic, and herbs, these bite-sized treats are baked to perfection. The mushroom caps provide a tender yet firm base, while the creamy filling offers a burst of flavor in every bite. Top with a sprinkle of parmesan cheese and a dash of paprika for an elegant finish. Serve warm to enjoy the full depth of flavors.

Bruschetta: Elevate your appetizer game with this classic bruschetta. Fresh tomatoes, basil, and garlic are combined with a drizzle of balsamic glaze and served atop crispy baguette slices. The contrast between the crunchy bread and the juicy, flavorful topping makes for a delightful start to any meal. Garnish with a touch of olive oil and a sprinkle of sea salt to enhance the natural flavors. Perfect for a light and refreshing appetizer.

Desserts:

Chocolate Lava Cake: Indulge in the rich, gooey center of this decadent dessert. The molten chocolate flows out as you cut into it, creating a perfect pairing with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. The contrast between the warm cake and the cold ice cream is a sensory delight. Garnish with a sprinkle of powdered sugar and a few fresh raspberries for a touch of elegance.

Lemon Meringue Pie: Experience the zesty freshness of this classic dessert. The tangy lemon filling is perfectly balanced by the sweet, fluffy meringue topping. Each bite offers a burst of citrus followed by a light, airy finish. Serve chilled for a refreshing end to your meal, and add a twist of lemon zest on top for an extra pop of flavor.

Why trust this Cornbread-Topped Skillet Chili Recipe:

This cornbread-topped skillet chili recipe combines the hearty flavors of ground turkey, kidney beans, and tomatoes with a delicious cornbread topping. The blend of spices like chili powder, cumin, and oregano ensures a rich, savory taste. The cornbread adds a delightful texture contrast, making each bite satisfying. With easy-to-follow instructions and simple ingredients, this dish is perfect for both novice and experienced cooks. Trust this recipe for a comforting, crowd-pleasing meal.

Share your thoughts on this Cornbread-Topped Skillet Chili recipe in the Recipe Sharing forum. Let's discuss any tweaks or variations you've tried and how it turned out!

FAQ:

How spicy is this chili?

The chili has a mild to moderate spice level due to the jalapeño. If you prefer it spicier, you can add more jalapeño or even some cayenne pepper. If you like it milder, just reduce the amount of jalapeño or omit it altogether.

Can I use a different type of meat?

Absolutely! You can substitute ground turkey with ground beef, chicken, or even a plant-based meat alternative if you're looking for a vegetarian option.

Do I need to use an oven-proof skillet?

Yes, an oven-proof skillet is ideal because it allows you to transfer the dish directly from the stovetop to the oven. If you don't have one, you can cook the chili in a regular skillet and then transfer it to a baking dish before adding the cornbread topping.

Can I make the cornbread topping gluten-free?

You can make the cornbread topping gluten-free by using a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend in place of the regular flour. Just make sure the blend you choose is suitable for baking.

How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can reheat it in the oven or microwave until warmed through.