Skillet Chili Cornbread Pot Pie

If you’re looking for a hearty and satisfying meal that warms your heart and soul, then this Skillet Chili Cornbread Pot Pie is just what you need. It brings together the rich and savory flavors of chili with a delightful cornbread topping that makes every bite a cozy experience. This dish is perfect for busy weeknights when you want something comforting yet easy to make. Plus, it’s ideal for family gatherings or any occasion where you want to share good food with even better company.

This recipe has quickly become a favorite in my home, not just because of its deliciousness but also its simplicity. With everything cooked in one skillet, cleanup is a breeze, and you’ll have more time to enjoy your meal and each other’s company!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• One-Pan Wonder: You’ll love how everything cooks together in one skillet, making both preparation and cleanup simple.
• Family-Friendly: This dish is sure to please everyone at the table—kids and adults alike will enjoy the comforting flavors.
• Quick to Prepare: Ready in under an hour, it’s perfect for those busy weeknights when you need to get dinner on the table fast.
• Customizable: With so many variations possible, you can easily adapt it to suit your taste preferences or dietary needs.
• Deliciously Filling: The combination of ground beef, beans, and cornbread makes for a satisfying meal that will keep hunger at bay.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering simple, wholesome ingredients is part of what makes this Skillet Chili Cornbread Pot Pie so special. You probably have most of these items in your pantry already! Here’s what you’ll need:

For the Chili Base

• 1 ½ pounds ground beef
• 2 (8 oz.) cans tomato sauce
• 1 (10 oz.) can diced tomatoes with green chiles
• 1 (14 oz.) can kidney or pinto beans, rinsed and drained
• 1 (14 oz.) can black beans, rinsed and drained
• 1 yellow onion, finely chopped
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons chili powder
• 2 teaspoons cumin
• 1 teaspoon oregano
• 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
• Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

For the Cornbread Topping

• 2 (8 oz.) packages cornbread mix
• 2 eggs
• ⅔ cup milk
• 1 (8 oz.) can creamed corn
• 1 cup cheddar cheese, grated (optional)

Variations

One of the best things about this recipe is its flexibility! Feel free to customize it based on what you have on hand or your personal preferences. Here are some fun ideas:

• Swap the protein: Use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef for a lighter option.
• Add veggies: Toss in some bell peppers or corn for extra color and nutrition.
• Make it spicy: If you like a kick, add some jalapeños or hot sauce to the chili base.
• Go vegan: Substitute plant-based ground meat and use non-dairy milk for a delicious vegan twist.

How to Make Skillet Chili Cornbread Pot Pie

Step 1: Preheat Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures that when we bake our pie later on, it will cook evenly and come out perfectly golden brown.

Step 2: Prepare the Chili Base

In a large ovenproof skillet over medium-high heat, heat up the olive oil. Once hot, add in the chopped onion and sauté until softened—this usually takes about 5 minutes. Adding garlic next gives it just enough time to cook without burning. Then stir in the ground beef; cooking until browned adds great flavor. Seasoning with chili powder, cumin, oregano, salt, and pepper early helps infuse those spices into the meat. Finally, mix in tomato sauce along with diced tomatoes and beans; let this simmer for about 15–20 minutes so all those amazing flavors meld together.

Step 3: Prepare the Cornbread Topping

While your chili simmers away happily on the stove, grab a large bowl. Combine the cornbread mix with eggs and milk until smooth. Folding in creamed corn—and cheese if you’re feeling indulgent—adds moisture and richness to our topping.

Step 4: Assemble and Bake

Once your chili base is bubbling nicely, pour the cornbread batter over it in an even layer. Spread it out gently! Bake this beauty in your preheated oven for about 20–25 minutes until the cornbread is golden brown on top. The edges might be bubbling which means it’s ready!

Step 5: Serve

When it’s done baking, allow your Skillet Chili Cornbread Pot Pie to cool slightly before digging in. Grab some bowls and enjoy every comforting bite of this delightful dish!

Pro Tips for Making Skillet Chili Cornbread Pot Pie

Don’t worry if you’re new to cooking; these simple tips will help you create a delicious Skillet Chili Cornbread Pot Pie that will impress your family and friends!

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables and quality meat make a significant difference in flavor. Freshness ensures vibrant taste and texture, enhancing your dish’s overall appeal.
• Adjust Spices to Your Taste: Feel free to tweak the spices! If you love it spicy, add more chili powder or even some diced jalapeños. Personalizing the spice level makes this dish uniquely yours.
• Don’t Skip the Simmer: Allowing the chili base to simmer for 15-20 minutes melds the flavors beautifully. This step is crucial for developing depth in your dish, resulting in a rich and hearty meal.
• Check Cornbread Doneness: For perfect cornbread, do the toothpick test. Insert a toothpick into the center; if it comes out clean or with just a few crumbs, it’s done! This ensures a fluffy topping that complements your chili perfectly.
• Let It Rest Before Serving: Allowing the pot pie to rest for about 10 minutes after baking helps everything set. This makes it easier to serve and enhances the overall texture of each bite.

How to Serve Skillet Chili Cornbread Pot Pie

Presenting your Skillet Chili Cornbread Pot Pie can be as fun as making it! Here are some delightful ways to serve this comforting dish.

Garnishes

• Chopped Cilantro: A sprinkle of fresh cilantro adds a burst of color and freshness that brightens up the flavors.
• Sour Cream or Greek Yogurt: A dollop on top provides creaminess and balances out the spiciness of the chili.
• Sliced Green Onions: These add a nice crunch and mild onion flavor that complements the richness of the pot pie.

Side Dishes

• Mixed Green Salad: A simple salad with greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and a light vinaigrette is refreshing and balances out the hearty pot pie.
• Corn on the Cob: Grilled or boiled corn on the cob brings sweetness that pairs wonderfully with savory chili.
• Guacamole with Tortilla Chips: Creamy guacamole served with crunchy tortilla chips can be a fun side that adds texture and flavor contrast.
• Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies like bell peppers, zucchini, or carrots can enhance your meal’s health factor while adding vibrant colors to your table.

Enjoy this cozy dish with all its delightful accompaniments, making your dining experience even more special!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Skillet Chili Cornbread Pot Pie is perfect for meal prep! It’s easy to make in advance, and the flavors only get better as it sits. Here’s how to store it properly:

Storing Leftovers

• Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• It will keep well for up to 3 days.
• Reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of water if needed.

Freezing

• To freeze, let the dish cool completely.
• Portion into freezer-safe containers or wrap tightly in plastic wrap and foil.
• It can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through (about 20–30 minutes).
• Alternatively, use the microwave, heating in short bursts until heated evenly.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making this Skillet Chili Cornbread Pot Pie:

Can I use different types of beans in this Skillet Chili Cornbread Pot Pie?

Absolutely! Feel free to mix and match your favorite beans such as black-eyed peas or cannellini beans. Just make sure they are rinsed and drained.

Is this Skillet Chili Cornbread Pot Pie gluten-free?

You can easily make this dish gluten-free by using a gluten-free cornbread mix. Just check the labels to ensure all ingredients meet your dietary needs.

How can I spice up my Skillet Chili Cornbread Pot Pie?

If you enjoy more heat, consider adding diced jalapeños or cayenne pepper to the chili base for an extra kick!

Can I make this Skillet Chili Cornbread Pot Pie vegetarian?

Yes! Substitute ground beef with a plant-based meat alternative or use lentils for a hearty vegetarian version that still packs a punch of flavor.

Final Thoughts

I hope you’re as excited about this Skillet Chili Cornbread Pot Pie as I am! This cozy dish is not only comforting but also versatile enough to suit different tastes and dietary preferences. Enjoy making it for family gatherings or cozy weeknight dinners—it’s sure to be a hit! Thank you for visiting my blog, and happy cooking!