Skillet Chili Cornbread Pot Pie

Culinary Comfort Redefined: Skillet Chili Cornbread Pot Pie Extravaganza

Embark on a culinary adventure that marries the heartiness of chili, the comforting allure of pot pie, and the rustic charm of cornbread with our Skillet Chili Cornbread Pot Pie. This recipe is a symphony of flavors, where savory chili meets a golden crown of cornbread, all baked to perfection in a cast-iron skillet. Picture a dish that not only warms your soul but also elevates the humble pot pie to a gourmet masterpiece. Join us in exploring the fusion of textures and tastes that define this skillet sensation—a comfort food extravaganza that promises to redefine your notions of culinary comfort.

Ingredients:

For the Chili Filling:

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (15 ounces) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 can (15 ounces) diced tomatoes
• 1 cup frozen corn kernels
• 1 tablespoon chili powder
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (for topping)

For the Cornbread Topping:

• 1 cup cornmeal
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 tablespoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup milk
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1 egg

Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven Adventure: Begin your culinary journey by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). The cast-iron skillet awaits, ready to transform simple ingredients into a culinary masterpiece.
2. Chili Filling Symphony: In the cast-iron skillet over medium heat, orchestrate the ground beef, chopped onion, and minced garlic. Cook until the beef is browned and the aromas of savory goodness fill your kitchen.
3. Chili Ensemble Unveiled: Introduce the kidney beans, diced tomatoes, frozen corn, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper to the beef mixture. Allow the ensemble to simmer and meld into a chili filling that promises to be the soul of your pot pie.
4. Cornbread Topping Crescendo: While the chili simmers, prepare the cornbread topping. In a mixing bowl, combine cornmeal, all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. Add milk, melted butter, and an egg, whisking until a smooth, golden batter forms—the crescendo to your skillet symphony.
5. Assemble and Bake: Pour the cornbread batter over the chili filling in the skillet, creating a golden cap that will bake to perfection. Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the top for a decadent finish. The skillet is ready for its transformation in the oven.
6. Golden Finale: Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the cornbread is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. As your kitchen fills with the enticing aroma of chili and freshly baked cornbread, anticipate the grand finale—a pot pie that marries the rustic charm of cornbread with the heartiness of chili.
7. Serve and Savor: Allow the Skillet Chili Cornbread Pot Pie to cool for a few minutes before slicing into wedges. Each serving promises a medley of textures—fluffy cornbread, rich chili, and gooey melted cheese. Serve with a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of fresh cilantro, and savor the warmth and comfort of this culinary creation.