Chili Cornbread Casserole

I adapted this recipe from a box of Stove Top cornbread stuffing mix. I had made the original before and didn't quite like the outcome, so this time I adjusted it a bit. Now, in the recipe I'm posting, I suggest simmering the chili for at least 45 minutes. That's because I don't like chewy ground beef. Simmering it for a while softens the beef and makes it more palatable to me. It also reduces the liquid in the chili. You do not have to do the simmer - but understand that your casserole will be a little more gooey - which is not necessarily a bad thing! Also, you could sub 1 1/2 cups of salsa (for a total of 2 1/2 cups in the recipe) if you don't have the diced tomatoes and green chiles on hand.

This is a great recipe for a cold night!


CHILI CORNBREAD CASSEROLE

1 box (6 oz) cornbread stuffing mix
1 1/2 cups hot water
1 lb. ground beef
1/2 cup chopped onion
1 can kidney beans, undrained
1 can black beans, undrained
1 can (8 oz) tomato sauce
1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes with green chiles
1 cup salsa
2 Tbsp. chili powder
2 tsp. cumin
pepper to taste

In a large skillet, brown ground beef with onions; drain. Add beans, tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, salsa, chili powder, cumin, and pepper. Bring to a boil; reduce heat and simmer, uncovered, for 45 minutes.

Preheat oven to 350 degrees. In a medium bowl, pour hot water over stuffing and fluff with fork. Pour chili into 9x13 casserole dish. Top with stuffing. Bake for 30 minutes.

Serve with shredded cheddar cheese and sour cream.