Chili Con Carne pie with Cornbread Topping
Chili Con Carne pie is a dish that many people adore as a comfort food. The warm, hearty blend of spices and savory ingredients makes it a perfect choice for chilly nights. Combining ground beef with beans creates a filling meal that satisfies hunger and warms the soul. Its mixture of flavors offers a delightful experience with each bite. The robust taste of the Tex-Mex chili recipe pairs beautifully with the sweet and crumbly Cornbread Topping.
Baking this dish adds another layer of richness and satisfaction. The aroma of chili mingling with freshly baked cornbread can draw anyone into the kitchen. Preparation is straightforward, which makes it a great option for an easy dinner. Homemade chili con carne pie can be made in one pot, simplifying cleanup and offering more time to enjoy the meal with family or friends.
This dish not only appeals to the taste buds but also creates a sense of coziness. Each bite combines the tender ground beef and hearty beans, while the cornbread topping adds a delightful texture. Chili con carne pie stands out as a winner in the realm of comfort food, making it a beloved choice for many kitchens. Whether shared at a casual gathering or enjoyed on a quiet evening, it remains a crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients
For a rich and savory chili con carne filling, gather the following:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 can (15 ounces) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (15 ounces) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (28 ounces) diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons chili powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust for heat preference)
- 1 cup beef broth or water
- Salt and pepper to taste
This chili recipe creates a warm and comforting base for your pie. The combination of beans provides texture while the spices deliver flavor. Feel free to add bell peppers or corn for a different twist.
Cornbread Topping Ingredients
The topping for this Tex-Mex creation is easy to prepare and adds a delightful crunch. You will need:
- 1 cup cornmeal
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 cup milk
- 2 large eggs
- ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 cup corn kernels (fresh or frozen)
- 1 teaspoon chili powder (optional, for a spicy kick)
Homemade cornbread not only complements the chili but also creates a satisfying topper. Mixing in some shredded cheese or jalapeños can elevate your flavor profile. Enjoy the process of baking and the aroma that fills your kitchen.
Preparation of Chili Filling
To begin making the chili filling for your pie, gather all necessary ingredients. Start with one pound of ground beef. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the beef to the skillet, breaking it up with a wooden spoon as it cooks. Brown it thoroughly until no pink remains. This should take around 5 to 7 minutes. Don’t rush this step; browning develops a rich flavor.
Next, drain excess grease from the skillet. Keeping a little fat can enhance taste, but too much can make the dish oily. Now, introduce one chopped onion and two minced garlic cloves to the mix. Sauté these for about 3 minutes, stirring frequently. The sweetness of the onion balances the spice in the chili.
After the onion softens and becomes translucent, it’s time to stir in your spices. Opt for a combination of chili powder, cumin, and paprika for that Tex-Mex kick. A teaspoon of each usually works well. If you like heat, try adding a pinch of cayenne pepper. Mix these spices together, allowing their aromas to meld with the beef and vegetables.
Now, it’s time for the beans. Use one can of kidney beans and one can of black beans, rinsed and drained. Throw these into the skillet along with one can of diced tomatoes. For more flavor, consider adding a tablespoon of tomato paste. This will enrich the filling and give it a deeper color.
Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. To enhance flavor, add a splash of beef broth or water if it seems too thick. Let everything cook for at least 20 minutes on low heat. Stir occasionally, allowing the flavors to come together and deepen. The goal is a thick, hearty filling that stands out within your cornbread topping.
As the filling simmers, taste and adjust seasoning as necessary. Add salt or pepper based on your liking. A dash of Worcestershire sauce can also add a unique flavor dimension. Once finished, let it cool briefly before filling your pie crust.
This chili recipe stands out as a comforting meal. Making your filling homemade will allow for customization. Create a unique flavor profile that reflects your personal taste. Keep in mind the rich texture and flavors that come from the careful blending of ingredients.
Making the Cornbread Topping
Preparing the cornbread topping is an essential step for your chili con carne pie. You will need 1 cup of cornmeal, 1 cup of all-purpose flour, and 1/4 cup of granulated sugar. Gather baking powder, salt, and 1 cup of milk. Also, have two large eggs and a stick of melted butter ready. This mixture will create a delicious and fluffy layer atop your comforting Tex-Mex dish.
Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Mix the dry ingredients first. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cornmeal, flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. Stir them together so they are evenly distributed. Mixing these components properly helps build a lovely foundation.
Next, focus on the wet ingredients. In another bowl, whisk together the milk, melted butter, and eggs until well blended. Adding the butter while it’s warm will enhance the flavor and texture of your cornbread topping.
Once both mixtures are done, it’s time to combine. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry mixture. Then mix gently. Avoid over-mixing; this could lead to a dense final product. The mixture should be lumpy, which is a sign of the right consistency. This will keep the cornbread light and airy, providing that perfect contrast to the rich chili underneath.
Consider adding a few variations to enhance the cornbread flavor. Cheddar cheese, jalapeños, or even corn kernels can add something special. These additions bring out the Tex-Mex character that many enjoy. If you wish for a slightly sweeter topping, replace some sugar with honey.
Pour the cornbread batter over your prepared chili mixture in the pie dish. Spread it evenly across the top, ensuring it covers every inch. This layer not only provides a delightful crunch but also traps steam, keeping everything moist. Bake the pie in the preheated oven for 20 to 25 minutes. The cornbread should turn a beautiful golden brown. This visual cue means it will be tender inside while developing a slight crust.
After baking, allow your chili pie to cool for a few minutes. This way, it will hold together better when served. The cornbread topping is not just a layer; it’s an integral part of this easy dinner. Enjoy the delightful blend of flavors as it complements the robust chili full of ground beef and beans.
Assembling the Pie
Begin by selecting a suitable baking dish for your chili con carne pie. A 9×13 inch dish works perfectly for this comforting meal. Pour the homemade chili recipe into the dish first. This mixture will typically include ground beef and beans, simmered together for a rich flavor. Spread the chili evenly across the bottom, creating a thick layer.
Next, you’ll prepare the cornbread topping. Use your favorite cornbread recipe, or a convenient mix, if you’re short on time. Once mixed, carefully pour this batter over the chili. Take your time to spread it evenly across the surface. Using a spatula can help achieve a smooth, even layer. Avoid any gaps to keep the filling cozy and prevent it from bubbling over during baking.
Now, it’s time to bake. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). This temperature allows the cornbread to rise beautifully while getting that inviting golden brown color. Place the assembled pie in the center of the oven. Bake it for about 25 to 30 minutes. Keep an eye on the topping; you want it to turn golden without burning.
To achieve that perfect texture on top, consider a few techniques. One option is to lightly brush the cornbread with melted butter before baking. This will add both flavor and a beautiful sheen. Another tip is to sprinkle some cheese on top in the last few minutes of baking for an extra layer of flavor. It adds a delightful Tex-Mex twist that complements the chili.
Once the baking time is complete, check the pie with a toothpick in the center. It should come out clean, indicating your cornbread is fully cooked. After baking, let it rest for about 10 minutes. This brief cooling period makes the pie easier to cut and serve. Enjoy your easy dinner that combines a hearty chili filling with a delightful cornbread topping!
Serving Suggestions
Chili con carne pie with its cornbread topping is a versatile dish that can be customized to fit many tastes. A dollop of sour cream adds a creamy contrast to the spicy flavors, balancing the heat for those who crave comfort food. Consider serving sliced jalapeños on the side; their tangy spiciness will excite your palate and enhance the Tex-Mex experience.
For cheese lovers, shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack can be sprinkled on top, melting beautifully into the warm pie. A colorful salad made with fresh greens, tomatoes, and avocado provides a refreshing side. It adds a nice crunch and makes your meal feel more complete, while also adding nutrients.
When it comes to gatherings, this dish is perfect for family-style serving. Provide toppings in separate bowls so everyone can build their own perfect plate. Offer tortilla chips to scoop up the chili, creating a fun, interactive element. Also, homemade guacamole can elevate the meal, alongside a light salsa to bring more flavors into the mix.
This easy dinner is not just filling; it also sparks conversation around the table. The aroma of ground beef and beans baking can entrap everyone in the kitchen, making it a heartwarming experience. Pairing the pie with a side of cornbread enhances the meal, as the sweetness of the bread complements the savory flavors of the chili.
Final Thoughts on a Hearty Fare
Chili con carne pie with cornbread topping offers an easy and satisfying dinner choice for any night of the week. This dish combines flavors and textures that everyone loves. The warm, spicy chili pairs beautifully with the soft, slightly sweet cornbread, creating a comforting meal perfect for gatherings with family or friends.
Sharing this pie around the dinner table can bring people together. Laughter, stories, and good food make any evening memorable. As you dig into that golden, crusty topping, the aroma of spices and hearty beans fills the air. Thus, you create an inviting atmosphere and the perfect setting for a fulfilling meal.
Trying your hand at a homemade chili recipe can lead to great rewards. Customizing the dish allows for personal flair, whether through the heat of the spices or additional ingredients like veggies. Your unique version will surely impress loved ones. So why not gather your ingredients and start cooking? Experience the joy and warmth that this classic meal brings. You might find it becomes a staple in your home as it has for many others.
