Texas Style Chili with Cornbread Crust

Name: Texas Style Chili with Cornbread Crust
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 1 h
Total time: 1 h 15 min
Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients: 1 lb ground beef; 1 can diced tomatoes; 1 can kidney beans; 1 onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 2 tbsp chili powder; 1 tsp cumin; 1 tsp salt; 1/2 tsp black pepper; 1 cup cornmeal; 1 cup milk; 2 eggs; 1/4 cup sugar; 1 tbsp baking powder; 1/2 tsp salt

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

Warm up your evenings with this hearty Texas Style Chili topped with a delightful cornbread crust. Packed with robust flavors from tender beef, zesty tomatoes, and a medley of spices, this dish is a comforting classic. The golden cornbread crust adds a unique twist, bringing together the best of chili and cornbread in every bite. Perfect for gatherings or cozy nights in!

Created by

Vanessa Doyle

Last updated on 2025-12-01T04:01:56.970Z

This recipe has been passed down for generations and represents the heart of Texas cooking.

The Essence of Texas Chili

Texas chili is more than just a meal; it's a tradition steeped in history and culture. Originating in the Lone Star State, this dish is known for its absence of beans and is focused on pure chili con carne — ground or cubed beef simmered in a rich tomato and spice blend. The deep, robust flavors of the spices, combined with the natural meat juices, create a hearty base that is the hallmark of a great chili. Each region in Texas has its own twist, making it a beloved dish with numerous variations.

To elevate your chili experience, consider using high-quality cuts of beef for a better texture and flavor profile. Flank steak or chuck roast works beautifully, lending a tender richness that ground beef simply can't match. Slow cooking allows the beef to break down and absorb all the spices thoroughly, creating that melt-in-your-mouth effect that chili enthusiasts rave about.

Perfectly Paired Cornbread Crust

What sets this Texas Style Chili apart from the rest is the delightful cornbread crust. The combination of chili and cornbread brings together the comfort of home-cooked meals and the satisfaction of a filling dinner. Cornbread is a staple in Southern cooking, known for its slightly sweet flavor and crumbly texture. This dish invites you to enjoy both the robust chili and the soft, buttery cornbread in one delightful bite, making it a hit at any dinner table.

Making the cornbread crust is simple yet crucial to the overall dish. It acts as a complementary layer that balances the spiciness of the chili. Plus, it offers an enjoyable textural contrast. The golden cornbread crust provides a crispy top while remaining moist and fluffy underneath, ensuring that each mouthful is a perfect blend of flavors and textures.

Serving Suggestions

When it comes to serving Texas Style Chili with Cornbread Crust, the options are plentiful. A dollop of sour cream on top adds a creamy richness that beautifully counters the spices, while freshly chopped cilantro can provide a burst of freshness. A side of jalapeño cornbread muffins can further enhance the meal, adding even more depth and flavor with every bite.

For those looking to present their dish with flair, consider a sprinkle of shredded cheese or diced green onions just before serving. These toppings not only enhance the look of your chili but also enrich the flavor profile, making the meal even more irresistible. This chili is ideal for casual family dinners, game day gatherings, or any occasion that calls for a warm, hearty spread.

Ingredients

Chili ingredients

1 lb ground beef
1 can diced tomatoes
1 can kidney beans
1 onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 tbsp chili powder
1 tsp cumin
1 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper

Cornbread crust ingredients

1 cup cornmeal
1 cup milk
2 eggs
1/4 cup sugar
1 tbsp baking powder
1/2 tsp salt

Mix the ingredients well before proceeding to the cooking steps.

Cooking Steps

Prepare the chili

In a large pot, brown the ground beef over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic, cooking until softened. Stir in the diced tomatoes, kidney beans, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 30 minutes.

Make the cornbread crust

In a bowl, combine cornmeal, milk, eggs, sugar, baking powder, and salt. Mix until smooth.

Combine and bake

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Pour the chili into a baking dish and spread the cornbread batter on top. Bake for 25-30 minutes until the cornbread is golden brown.

Allow to cool for a few minutes before serving.

Tips for Success

For an even richer flavor in your Texas Style Chili, don't hesitate to let it simmer longer than suggested. The longer cooking time allows the flavors to deepen and meld beautifully, creating a more complex and satisfying taste. You can also experiment with adding ingredients like bell peppers or different chili varieties to customize your heat level and flavor.

Always taste your chili before serving; seasonings can vary based on personal preference and the natural flavors of the ingredients used. Adjust the salt, pepper, and spices as necessary to achieve the perfect balance that suits your palate.

Storage and Reheating

Leftover Texas Style Chili stores wonderfully and can be a lifesaver for busy weeknight dinners. Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be refrigerated for up to five days or frozen for up to three months. When ready to enjoy, simply reheat on the stovetop, adding a little water or broth if necessary to restore the desired consistency.

The cornbread crust may lose its crispness upon reheating, but it will still taste delicious. If you want to revive some of that texture, consider broiling it for a few minutes after reheating to give the top a bit more crunch.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use chicken instead of beef?

Yes, you can substitute ground chicken for a lighter option.

→ Is this recipe spicy?

You can adjust the spice level by adding more or less chili powder.