Introduction
Comfort food at its finest, this Creamy Slow Cooker Chili with Cornbread Topping is the ultimate dish to warm you up on a chilly day. With the perfect balance of flavors, this recipe combines the hearty richness of traditional chili with a delightful creamy twist that will have everyone coming back for seconds. The slow cooker does all the heavy lifting, allowing the ingredients to meld together beautifully, giving you time to relax while the delicious aroma fills your home.
What truly elevates this dish is the golden cornbread topping, baked to a crispy finish, providing a wonderful contrast to the creamy chili beneath. It’s the kind of meal that not only satisfies your hunger but also brings family and friends together around the dinner table. Whether it’s game day, a family gathering, or a cozy night in, this chili is sure to impress and leave you with warm memories (and full bellies!).
Grab your slow cooker and get ready to indulge in a bowl of comforting goodness that’s as easy to make as it is satisfying. Let’s dive into this scrumptious recipe and explore the flavors that await you!
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef or turkey
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, finely chopped
- 1 bell pepper, chopped (any color)
- 2 (15 oz) cans black beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 (15 oz) can kidney beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 (15 oz) can corn, drained
- 1 (28 oz) can crushed tomatoes
- 2 cups chicken or vegetable stock
- 1 tbsp chili powder
- 2 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 cup heavy cream
- For the Cornbread Topping:
- 1 cup cornmeal
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 tbsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup milk
- 1/4 cup vegetable oil
- 1 large egg
Instructions
-
- In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef or turkey until it is no longer pink. Drain excess fat and add the meat to the slow cooker.
-
- Into the slow cooker, toss in the diced onion, minced garlic, and chopped bell pepper along with the meat.
-
- Incorporate the black beans, kidney beans, corn, crushed tomatoes, and chicken or vegetable stock.
-
- Add the chili powder, ground cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir thoroughly to ensure everything is well combined.
-
- Place the lid on the slow cooker and set it to cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. Approximately 30 minutes before serving, mix in the heavy cream for added richness.
-
- To prepare the cornbread topping, in a mixing bowl, whisk together the cornmeal, flour, baking powder, salt, and sugar.
-
- In a separate bowl, beat together the milk, vegetable oil, and egg. Combine the wet ingredients with the dry mixture, stirring until just incorporated.
-
- After the chili has completed cooking, carefully spoon the cornbread batter evenly over the chili in the slow cooker.
-
- Cover and continue cooking on high for another 30-40 minutes, or until the cornbread is firm and has a golden brown top.
-
- Once finished, take off the lid and allow the chili to cool slightly before serving.
- Prep Time: 20 min | Total Time: 7 hr 40 min | Servings: 6
Key Ingredients
- Ground Beef or Turkey – 1 pound, for a heartier chili base.
- Onion – 1 medium, diced, to provide flavor and sweetness.
- Garlic – 3 cloves, minced, for a robust taste.
- Diced Tomatoes – 1 can (14.5 ounces), for acidity and texture.
- Black Beans – 1 can (15 ounces), drained and rinsed, for protein and fiber.
- Kidney Beans – 1 can (15 ounces), drained and rinsed, for added texture.
- Corn – 1 cup, frozen or canned, to add sweetness and crunch.
- Chili Powder – 2 tablespoons, for warmth and spice.
- Cumin – 1 teaspoon, for an earthy, smoky flavor.
- Salt and Pepper – to taste, for seasoning.
- Cream Cheese – 8 ounces, for a creamy finish.
- Shredded Cheddar Cheese – 1 cup, for topping.
- Cornbread Mix – 1 package (typically 8-9 ounces), for the cornbread topping.
- Milk – 1/3 cup, to prepare the cornbread mix.
- Egg – 1, beaten, for binding the cornbread.
These ingredients combine to create a comforting and hearty dish that’s perfect for chilly days!
Baking Process
Once your creamy slow cooker chili is ready and bubbling with flavor, it’s time to elevate it by adding a delicious cornbread topping. Follow these steps for the perfect finish:
Step 1: Prepare the Cornbread Batter
- Gather Ingredients: You will need:
- 1 cup cornmeal
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup buttermilk (or milk with a splash of vinegar)
- 1/4 cup melted butter or vegetable oil
-
2 large eggs
-
Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the cornmeal, flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt until evenly combined.
-
Combine Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, mix the buttermilk, melted butter, and eggs until well incorporated.
-
Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients, and stir gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; a few lumps are okay.
Step 2: Assemble the Chili and Cornbread Topping
-
Check the Chili: Make sure your chili is thoroughly cooked and has reached a creamy consistency. If it seems a bit thin, you can thicken it by allowing it to cook a little longer with the lid off.
-
Pour the Cornbread Batter: Spoon the cornbread batter over the top of the chili in an even layer. Use a spatula to spread it gently so it covers the surface completely, but avoid stirring it into the chili.
Step 3: Bake
-
Cook in the Slow Cooker: Cover the slow cooker and set it to high heat. Cook for an additional 30-40 minutes, or until the cornbread is firm and cooked through. To check for doneness, insert a toothpick into the center of the cornbread; it should come out clean.
-
Optional Broil Finish: For a golden crust, you can transfer the entire slow cooker insert to the oven during the last 5-10 minutes of cooking. Preheat your oven broiler, and place the insert on a middle rack until the cornbread is golden brown. Keep a close eye on it to avoid burning.
Step 4: Serve and Enjoy
-
Cool Slightly: Once the cornbread is baked, allow it to cool for a few minutes before serving. This will help the cornbread firm up a bit and make cutting it easier.
-
Scoop and Serve: Use a large spoon to scoop out portions of the creamy chili along with the cornbread topping. Serve hot, garnished with optional toppings like shredded cheese, sour cream, or fresh herbs.
Enjoy your hearty, comforting dish of creamy slow cooker chili with a delicious cornbread topping that’s perfect for family dinners or gatherings!
Serving Suggestions
-
Classic Side Dishes: Serve your creamy slow cooker chili with a side of traditional accompaniments like avocado slices, sour cream, and shredded cheese. These toppings add a rich texture and enhance the chili’s flavors.
-
Fresh Herbs: Garnish your chili with freshly chopped cilantro or green onions for a burst of color and freshness. These herbs not only look great but also add a vibrant flavor contrast.
-
Crunchy Snacks: Pair your chili with crunchy tortilla chips or crackers for added texture. Dipping into the chili can elevate the eating experience, making each bite more exciting.
-
Salad on the Side: A light and refreshing green salad can balance the hearty richness of the chili. Consider a simple mix of arugula, cherry tomatoes, and a lemon vinaigrette to cut through the creaminess.
-
Beer Pairing: Enjoy your meal with a cold beer or a nice glass of red wine. A hoppy IPA or a light lager complements the flavors of the chili while adding a refreshing contrast.
-
Extra Cornbread: For those who can’t get enough of the cornbread topping, serve slices of freshly baked cornbread on the side. It’s perfect for sopping up any leftover chili.
-
Family Style: Present the chili in a large serving bowl and the cornbread separately so everyone can help themselves. This style encourages sharing and can create a warm, communal atmosphere during mealtime.
-
Meal Prep Option: Package leftovers in individual containers and pair them with a small side salad for an easy, grab-and-go lunch option throughout the week.
With these serving suggestions, your creamy slow cooker chili with cornbread topping can become not just a meal, but a delightful dining experience enjoyed by family and friends!
Conclusion
This Creamy Slow Cooker Chili with Cornbread Topping is the perfect dish for busy weeknights or cozy gatherings with family and friends. The slow cooker does most of the work, melding together a rich and creamy chili base that’s loaded with flavor, beans, and your favorite proteins. The addition of the cornbread topping adds an irresistible touch, creating a satisfying contrast between the hearty chili and the sweet, fluffy cornbread.
Whether served at a potluck, game day, or simply enjoyed at home, this dish is sure to be a hit. Plus, it’s versatile—you can easily customize it with your preferred spices, vegetables, or toppings, making it a fantastic canvas for your culinary creativity. So grab your slow cooker, gather your ingredients, and experience the delightful combination of flavors that this dish brings to the table. Happy cooking!
