Campfire Dutch Oven Chili with Cornbread
Nothing beats chili cooked in a Dutch oven over coals. Browned Ground Beef, peppers, spices, and beer simmer into a smoky, hearty chili, topped with a quick layer of boxed cornbread for one-pot campfire comfort. Serve with cheddar, green onions, and sour cream for the full Texas-friendly spread.
Cook Time: 60 Minutes
Servings: 10
Ingredients: 19
Ingredients
Optional Toppings
Preparation
Campfire Instructions
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Step 1
Heat briquettes up in a chimney, then make a layer of hot briquettes on the ground, a fire ring, or other metal structure.
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Step 2
Place the dutch oven on the briquettes and allow dutch oven to get hot.
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Step 3
Add oil to the dutch oven and sauté onion, bell pepper, and jalapeño pepper stirring occasionally until tender, approximately 4-7 minutes. Add garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute.
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Step 4
Add Ground Beef to dutch oven and cook for 8-10 minutes, breaking beef into small crumbles and stirring occasionally until browned. If dutch oven starts to cool off, add more hot briquettes on the bottom.
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Step 5
Add chili powder, paprika, cumin, oregano, black pepper and salt; cook for 1 minute.
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Step 6
Add tomato sauce, diced tomatoes & green chilies, and beer; bring to a boil. Cook for 30 minutes.
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Step 7
Prepare cornbread mix based on box instructions and pour over chili, spreading into an even layer.
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Step 8
Heat approximately 20 additional briquettes. Cover dutch oven with lid and place hot briquettes evenly on the top of the closed lid.
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Step 9
Cook for about 10 minutes, checking halfway through. Check to see if cornbread is done by sticking a toothpick into cornbread. If the toothpick comes out clean, it is done.
Nutrition Information
479 Calories
6.22g SAT FAT
32g PROTEIN
4.19 mg IRON
6.87 mg ZINC
* Based on a 2,000 calorie diet
** Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000-calorie diet
The Essential Ingredients
Ground Beef: Also called ‘hamburger,’ is made by grinding beef cuts and beef trim. It works well in dishes that require crumbles, and typically any leanness of Ground Beef works well in dishes – just be sure to drain any remaining fat after cooking.
Diced Tomatoes: Most commonly found in a can, these tomatoes are grown and picked when ripe, then canned in their own juices. They are a convenient pantry staple that can be added to many dishes.
Dark Beer: A category of beer that is typically deeper in color, ranging from amber to near black. Has a richer, more robust flavor. Features notes of roasted malt and coffee.
Cornbread Mix: A convenient blend of cornmeal, flour, leavening agents, and seasonings used to quickly prepare cornbread. Additional ingredients such as eggs, milk, or butter are typically added according to package directions to achieve the desired consistency and flavor.
Safe Handling Tips:
- Wash hands with soap and water before cooking and always after touching raw meat.
- Separate raw meat from other foods.
- Wash all cutting boards, utensils, and dishes after touching raw meat.
- Do not reuse marinades used on raw foods.
- Wash all produce prior to use.
- Cook steaks and roasts until temperature reaches 145°F for medium rare, as measured by a meat thermometer, allowing to rest for three minutes.
- Cook Ground Beef to 160°F as measured by a meat thermometer.
- Refrigerate leftovers promptly.
For more information on degree of doneness and other cooking tips.
For more information on safe food handling and beef safety.
Frequently Asked Questions
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What's a common mistake when making chili cornbread casserole?
Adding the cornbread topping before the chili has had time to simmer is a common mistake. Allowing the chili to cook first helps develop deeper flavors and prevents the cornbread from becoming soggy.
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Why is beer added to chili?
Beer adds richness and complexity while enhancing the flavors of the beef, tomatoes, and spices. As the chili cooks, the alcohol evaporates, leaving behind a subtle malty flavor that complements the dish.
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What toppings go well with chili cornbread casserole?
Popular toppings include shredded cheddar cheese, sour cream, sliced green onions, diced avocado, fresh cilantro, pickled jalapeños, or crushed tortilla chips. These toppings add texture and fresh flavor while allowing everyone to customize their bowl.
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