Crunchy Chili Casserole - Mighty Mrs | Super Easy Recipes (2024)

This oven-baked casserole is made up of layers. First, a spicy-sweet green-chili cornbread crust. Next is the layer of chili made with ground beef, chili beans and seasonings in a thick and flavorful tomato chili sauce. Next is a layer of melted cheese and finally a crunchy corn chip topping. Feeds a crowds. Bakes in 30 minutes with minimal prep that can be done in advance.

This chili casserole offers a lot to love. It's layered with flavor and texture yet is ready in just XX minutes.

Featuring a cornbread crust infused with green chilies, layered with seasoned ground beef and chili bean, then topped with melty cheddar cheese and crunchy corn chips.

★ Why You'll Love this Recipe ★

This super easy casserole dish starts with a sweet crust of cornbread, balanced with green chilies for a touch of heat.

Hearty ground beef, golden sauteed onions, and pinto beans in chili sauce are seasoned with delicious traditional chili seasonings to create the chili layer.

The thick and flavorful chili layer is topped with melted cheese and crispy, crunchy corn chips to give that perfect bite to bring it all together. Such a great recipe to feed a crowd or serve this up for dinner and enjoy leftovers the next day!

★ Ingredients You'll Need ★

Here's a look at everything you need to make this casserole from scratch.

The Cornbread Layer

Make your own mix with:

• Cornmeal, all-purpose flour, sugar, baking powder and salt.
• Then add an egg, milk and green chilies.

You can save yourself some time by using a boxed cornbread mix. I prefer the Krusteaz brand personally. I'm just not a big Jiffy fan but if you are, then you can also use that.

The Chili Layer

• Ground beef. Use a lean ground beef or simple drain away excess fat after cooking.
• Chili beans. Chili beans are pinto beans in a mildly spicy sauce. You'll find these in a canned beans aisle.
• Onion. You can use yellow or white. A red onion also works and will be a bit sweeter.
• Tomato sauce. A can of basic tomato sauce is all you need.
• Seasonings: chili powder, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, oregano, beef bouillon, salt and pepper to taste.
  You can use a chili seasoning spice blend packet if you don't have all these spices or if you want to save time. The benefit to using your own individual spices is that you can adjust each on to your liking. So go with whatever method suites you and your time constraints and preferences.

Cheese & Crunchy Topping

• Cheese. You can use plain shredded cheddar or a blend of cheeses. A Mexican cheese blend will add additional flavor.
• Corn chips. Fritos or store brand. You can also use tortilla strips, or crushed tortilla chips.

★ How to Make this Recipe ★

This oven-baked chili casserole comes together in just a couple steps. It's quick and easy!

Here's a look what's involved:

• Combine cornbread ingredients.
• Layer cornbread batter into casserole dish.
• Brown ground beef with onions.
• Stir in tomato sauce, chili beans and seasoning.
• Layer chili with sauce on top of cornbread batter.
• Sprinkle with cheese.
• Add crumbled corn chips.
• Bake.
• Garnish with sour cream and green onions and serve.

Easy as that!

★ Tips & FAQs ★

What are some ways to customize the ingredients in this casserole?

Feel free to customize the chili with your favorite ingredients such as different types of beans or meats. You can also adjust the level of spice to suit your taste preferences. Try adding a layer of whole-kernal sweet or cream corn, or you can stir it into the cornbread layer.

Additionally, you can experiment with different types of cheese or toppings like raw onions, sour cream and hot sauce for added flavor. Chopped green onions, fresh cilantro, or diced avocado also make great toppings.

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare this casserole ahead of time by assembling it up to the cheese (leave ofd the corn chips) and then covering and refrigerating it until you're ready to bake. Add corn chips right before baking. This makes it a convenient option for meal prep or entertaining.

You can also freeze this casserole. Again, in an airtight container and without the corn chip topping. Add that before baking. Make sure to bring to room temperature first before baking or you will need to add additional bake time. About 10 minutes more.

What can I serve with this chili casserole?

This chili bake pairs well with a crisp salad, a refreshing smoothie or some your favorite steamed or roasted vegetable for a complete meal.

How long will leftovers last in the refrigerator?

Leftovers of this casserole can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Be sure to cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap or transfer it to an airtight container to maintain freshness. You'll also want to remove the corn chips and add fresh one since they tend to get soggy when stored.

Can I make this casserole vegetarian or vegan?

Yes, you can make this casserole vegetarian or vegan by substituting the meat with plant-based alternatives such as textured vegetable protein (TVP), lentils, or extra beans. For a vegan version, use a plant-based milk and egg substitute in the cornbread batter, and ensure the corn chips and other ingredients are vegan-friendly.

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