Texas Style Chili with Cornbread Crust

Name: Texas Style Chili with Cornbread Crust
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 1 h
Total time: 1 h 20 min
Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients: 1 lb ground beef; 1 can kidney beans, drained; 1 can black beans, drained; 1 can diced tomatoes; 1 onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 2 tbsp chili powder; 1 tsp cumin; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 cup cornmeal; 1 cup flour; 2 tbsp sugar; 1 tbsp baking powder; 1 cup milk; 1 egg; 1/4 cup melted butter

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

Experience the heartwarming flavors of the Southwest with this delicious Texas Style Chili topped with a golden cornbread crust. This hearty dish combines tender beans, rich meat, and a blend of spices, all baked under a fluffy cornbread layer that adds the perfect texture and taste. Ideal for gatherings or cozy nights in, this chili is a true crowd-pleaser that brings comfort to your dinner table.

Created by

Cassidy Moore

Last updated on 2025-11-29T04:41:13.414Z

This Texas Style Chili is not just a meal, but a gathering of flavors that encapsulates the essence of the Southwest. With its robust taste and texture, it's perfect for any occasion.

The Perfect Comfort Food

Texas Style Chili with Cornbread Crust is more than just a meal; it's an experience that evokes warmth and camaraderie among family and friends. This dish represents a beautiful fusion of rich flavors and textures, making it a beloved staple in many households. The tender beans and savory ground beef come together in a symphony of taste, while the cornbread crust adds a delightful crunch on top.

When the weather turns brisk or you're seeking a hearty meal to serve after a long day, this chili is your go-to dish. It offers not only comfort but also satisfaction with every spoonful. The unique combination of spices permeates the chili, richly layering flavors that will have everyone asking for seconds.

Easy to Prepare Ahead of Time

One of the remarkable aspects of this Texas Style Chili is its versatility regarding preparation. You can easily make the chili a day in advance, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully overnight. This is especially helpful when hosting gatherings, as it frees up valuable cooking time on the day of your event. Additionally, leftovers store well—simply reheat and enjoy the next day.

The cornbread topping can also be prepared while the chili simmers, which expedites the cooking process. This simplicity makes it an ideal choice for busy weeknights or casual family dinners, providing a homemade touch without overwhelming your schedule.

Perfect Pairings

When serving Texas Style Chili with Cornbread Crust, consider some delightful side options that will enhance your meal. A refreshing green salad with a tangy vinaigrette can provide a crisp contrast to the rich flavors of the chili. Additionally, a side of pickled jalapeños can add a spicy kick for those who enjoy a little heat in their dishes.

Beverage pairings can also elevate your dining experience. A cold, crisp lager or a smooth red wine complements the chili perfectly, balancing the dish's hearty nature. For a non-alcoholic option, a classic iced tea or sparkling lemonade can provide a refreshing lift.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients before you start cooking:

Chili Ingredients

1 lb ground beef
1 can kidney beans, drained
1 can black beans, drained
1 can diced tomatoes
1 onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 tbsp chili powder
1 tsp cumin
Salt and pepper to taste

Cornbread Crust Ingredients

1 cup cornmeal
1 cup flour
2 tbsp sugar
1 tbsp baking powder
1 cup milk
1 egg
1/4 cup melted butter

Make sure everything is prepped and ready to go!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your Texas Style Chili with Cornbread Crust:

Prepare the Chili

In a large pot over medium heat, brown the ground beef with chopped onions and minced garlic. Stir in the kidney beans, black beans, diced tomatoes, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Let simmer for 30 minutes.

Make the Cornbread Mixture

In a bowl, mix cornmeal, flour, sugar, baking powder, milk, egg, and melted butter until combined. Set aside.

Combine and Bake

Pour the chili mixture into a baking dish and spread the cornbread mixture on top. Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 25 minutes or until the cornbread is golden.

Enjoy your delicious Texas Style Chili with a cornbread crust!

Chili Variations

While this Texas Style Chili recipe is a classic, there's plenty of room for customization based on personal preference or dietary needs. For a vegetarian twist, consider substituting the ground beef with lentils or plant-based protein crumbles, combined with a variety of beans for texture and heartiness. Alternatively, you can tweak the spice levels by adding more chili powder or incorporating fresh peppers for an extra kick.

You can also experiment with different beans or add vegetables like bell peppers and corn to bring more variety and nutrition to your dish. Each variation can create a unique spin while maintaining the essence of traditional Texas chili.

Storage and Reheating Tips

Storing leftovers of your Texas Style Chili is simple and hassle-free. Allow the chili to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container for refrigeration. It can last for up to five days in the fridge, making it a convenient option for meal prep. For longer storage, you can freeze the chili for up to three months; just be sure to label the container with the date for easy tracking.

When reheating, you can use the stovetop or microwave. If using the stovetop, heat over medium heat until warmed through, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating. If you prefer microwaving, heat in intervals, stirring in between to achieve consistent warmth. This way, your chili will taste as delicious as the day it was made.

Serving Suggestions

To turn your Texas Style Chili with Cornbread Crust into a full meal, consider serving it with some traditional toppings. Sour cream, shredded cheese, and fresh cilantro can add creaminess and freshness to each bowl. A sprinkle of green onions can also elevate the presentation while adding a mild onion flavor.

For those looking to enhance the southern flair, serve with a side of sliced jalapeños or tortilla chips for added texture. These roots in Tex-Mex culture will not only make the meal more enjoyable but also create a communal atmosphere as friends and family gather around the table.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I substitute the meat?

Yes, you can use turkey or make it vegetarian by omitting the meat and adding more beans.

→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the chili a day in advance and add the cornbread topping just before baking.