Classic Chili Bowl Recipe with Cornbread Waffles Recipe

After a long week anticipating the weekend, nothing screams comfort and relaxation quite like a hearty bowl of chili paired with fluffy, golden cornbread waffles. Last Saturday, as the first leaves of autumn began to fall, I decided to try out this Classic Chili Bowl Recipe with Cornbread Waffles, and let me tell you, it was an absolute home run! The aroma that filled my kitchen as the chili simmered in the slow cooker was simply intoxicating, a warm and inviting blend of spices and savory goodness. Even my pickiest eater, my youngest son, couldn’t get enough of it, declaring it the “best chili ever” (high praise indeed!). The cornbread waffles were the perfect accompaniment, offering a delightful sweetness and textural contrast to the rich and spicy chili. This recipe is not just a meal; it’s an experience, a comforting embrace in a bowl, perfect for cozy nights in, game day gatherings, or any occasion that calls for delicious, fuss-free food. If you’re looking for a dish that will warm you from the inside out and leave everyone wanting seconds, look no further – this chili and cornbread waffle combo is it!

Ingredients

To embark on this culinary adventure, gather the following ingredients. This recipe is designed to be straightforward and uses readily available ingredients, making it a perfect choice for both novice and experienced cooks. We’ve broken down the ingredients into a clear list to make your grocery shopping and preparation a breeze.

For the Classic Chili:

• 1 lb Ground Beef: The heart of our chili, ground beef provides a robust and meaty base. Opt for 80/20 ground beef for a good balance of flavor and texture. Leaner ground beef can also be used, but you might miss out on some of the richness that fat brings to the chili.
• 15.5 oz Chili Beans (1 can), Drained: Chili beans are kidney beans or pinto beans in a chili-style sauce. Draining them allows you to control the overall flavor profile of your chili, focusing on the spices and seasonings you add yourself.
• 30 oz Tomato Sauce (2 cans): Tomato sauce provides the liquid base and a foundational tomato flavor for the chili. Choose a good quality tomato sauce for the best taste.
• 10 oz Rotel Diced Tomatoes and Green Chilies (1 can): Rotel adds a touch of heat and complexity with diced tomatoes and green chilies. For a milder chili, you can choose mild Rotel or substitute with regular diced tomatoes and a milder chili pepper like poblano or Anaheim.
• 1/2 Yellow Onion, Diced: Onions are a foundational aromatic in countless dishes, and chili is no exception. Yellow onions offer a balanced flavor that sweetens as they cook down, adding depth to the chili.
• 2 Jalapenos, Diced: Jalapenos bring a noticeable but not overwhelming heat to the chili. Remember to remove the seeds and membranes for a milder heat level, or leave them in for a spicier kick. Always handle jalapenos with care and consider wearing gloves to avoid skin irritation.
• 1 Red Bell Pepper, Diced: Red bell peppers contribute sweetness and a vibrant color to the chili. They also offer a subtle pepper flavor that complements the other vegetables.
• 1 Green Bell Pepper, Diced: Green bell peppers add a slightly more bitter and grassy note compared to red bell peppers, creating a more complex flavor profile in the chili. The combination of red and green bell peppers provides both flavor and visual appeal.
• 2 tsp Garlic, Minced: Garlic is a powerhouse of flavor, adding pungency and depth to savory dishes. Freshly minced garlic is always preferred for the most intense flavor, but pre-minced garlic can be used for convenience.
• 1 tbsp BBQ Sauce: BBQ sauce introduces a smoky sweetness and tanginess to the chili, enhancing its complexity and adding a unique layer of flavor. Choose your favorite BBQ sauce – a smoky or sweet variety will work wonderfully.
• 1 tbsp Chili Powder: Chili powder is the quintessential chili spice, providing a blend of dried chilies and other spices like cumin, oregano, and garlic powder. It’s crucial for that classic chili flavor.
• 1 tbsp Brown Sugar: Brown sugar adds a touch of sweetness that balances the spice and acidity in the chili. It also helps to deepen the flavor and create a richer, more rounded taste.
• 1 tsp Cumin: Cumin is a warm, earthy spice that is essential in chili. It adds a smoky and slightly bitter note that complements the other spices beautifully.
• 1/2 tsp Cayenne Pepper: Cayenne pepper delivers a significant heat boost to the chili. If you prefer a milder chili, you can reduce or omit the cayenne pepper entirely.
• 1/2 tsp Salt: Salt is crucial for seasoning and enhancing the flavors of all the ingredients. Adjust the salt to your taste as you cook.
• 1/2 tsp Black Pepper: Black pepper adds a subtle pungency and warmth to the chili, complementing the other spices. Freshly ground black pepper is always preferred for the best flavor.
• 1/2 tsp Seasoned Salt: Seasoned salt adds a blend of salt, herbs, and spices, contributing an extra layer of flavor complexity to the chili.
• 1/2 tsp Cocoa Powder: Unsweetened cocoa powder might seem like an unusual ingredient in chili, but it adds a subtle depth and richness, enhancing the savory notes and creating a more complex flavor profile. Don’t worry, you won’t taste chocolate!
• 1 tsp Worcestershire Sauce: Worcestershire sauce is a fermented condiment that adds umami and savory depth to the chili. Its complex flavor profile enhances the overall taste and adds a subtle tang.
• 8 drops Liquid Smoke (Optional): Liquid smoke adds a pronounced smoky flavor to the chili, mimicking the taste of slow-smoked chili. Use it sparingly as it can be quite potent. If you don’t have liquid smoke, you can omit it or consider using smoked paprika for a milder smoky flavor.

For Toppings (Optional, but highly recommended!):

• Sour Cream: Cool and creamy sour cream provides a delightful contrast to the warm and spicy chili. It also adds a tangy richness.
• Green Onions, Chopped: Green onions add a fresh, mild onion flavor and a pop of color to the chili. They provide a refreshing contrast to the richness of the chili.
• Cheddar Cheese, Shredded: Sharp cheddar cheese is a classic chili topping, adding a salty, cheesy, and slightly tangy flavor that melts beautifully into the hot chili.

For the Easy Cornbread Waffles (Use your favorite mix or recipe):

• Cornbread Mix (enough for about 10 waffles): Using a cornbread mix simplifies the waffle preparation. Choose your favorite brand or a homemade recipe. You’ll need enough mix to make approximately 10 waffles.
• Cooking Spray: Cooking spray is essential for preventing the cornbread waffles from sticking to the waffle iron. Use a neutral-flavored cooking spray like canola or avocado oil spray.

Instructions

Follow these step-by-step instructions to create a comforting and flavorful chili and cornbread waffle meal. The slow cooker chili is incredibly easy to prepare and practically cooks itself, while the cornbread waffles are quick and simple to whip up just before serving.

Chili Preparation:

1. Brown the Ground Beef: Begin by heating a large saucepan or skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a spoon or spatula, until it is fully browned and no longer pink. This step is crucial for developing the flavor of the beef and preventing it from clumping in the chili.
2. Drain Excess Fat: Once the ground beef is browned, carefully drain off any excess fat from the pan. Removing the excess fat helps to prevent the chili from becoming greasy and keeps the flavors clean and focused.
3. Transfer to Slow Cooker: Add the drained, cooked ground beef to your slow cooker. A slow cooker is ideal for chili as it allows the flavors to meld and deepen over a long cooking time, resulting in a richer and more complex chili.
4. Add Chili Beans: Open the can of chili beans, drain off the liquid, and add the drained chili beans to the slow cooker with the ground beef. Draining the beans allows you to control the liquid content and flavor of the chili.
5. Pour in Tomato Sauce: Open the cans of tomato sauce and pour them into the slow cooker, covering the ground beef and chili beans. Tomato sauce provides the liquid base and a foundational tomato flavor for the chili.
6. Add Rotel: Open the can of Rotel diced tomatoes and green chilies and add it to the slow cooker. Rotel adds both diced tomatoes and a touch of spice from the green chilies, enhancing the flavor profile of the chili.
7. Prepare and Add Vegetables: Dice the yellow onion, jalapenos (remember to remove seeds and membranes for less heat if desired and handle with care!), red bell pepper, and green bell pepper. Add all the diced vegetables to the slow cooker. Dicing the vegetables ensures they cook evenly and release their flavors throughout the chili. Using a vegetable slicer can significantly speed up this step if you have one.
8. Incorporate Aromatics and Spices: Add the minced garlic, BBQ sauce, chili powder, brown sugar, cumin, cayenne pepper, salt, black pepper, seasoned salt, cocoa powder, and Worcestershire sauce to the slow cooker. If using, add the optional liquid smoke (just a few drops!). These ingredients create the signature chili flavor profile.
9. Stir to Combine: Stir all the ingredients in the slow cooker thoroughly to ensure everything is well combined and the spices are evenly distributed. This helps to create a cohesive and flavorful chili.
10. Slow Cook to Perfection: Cover the slow cooker and set it to low heat. Cook for 4-8 hours, or until the chili has thickened and the flavors have melded beautifully. The longer it cooks, the more developed and richer the flavors will become. The low and slow cooking process is key to achieving a truly delicious chili.
11. Serve Hot with Toppings: Once the chili is cooked, ladle it into bowls. Garnish generously with your favorite toppings such as sour cream, shredded cheddar cheese, and chopped green onions. These toppings add coolness, creaminess, and freshness, complementing the richness and spice of the chili.

Cornbread Waffle Preparation:

1. Prepare Cornbread Mix: About 20 minutes before the chili is ready to serve, prepare the cornbread waffle mix according to the package instructions or your preferred recipe. This ensures the waffles are fresh and warm when served with the chili.
2. Preheat Waffle Iron: Heat your waffle iron to medium heat. Properly preheating the waffle iron is essential for achieving crispy and golden-brown waffles.
3. Grease Waffle Iron: Spray both the top and bottom plates of the preheated waffle iron with cooking spray. This prevents the cornbread waffles from sticking and ensures easy removal.
4. Pour Batter: Pour approximately four tablespoons of the cornbread batter onto the center of the hot waffle iron. The amount of batter may vary depending on the size of your waffle iron. Avoid overfilling the waffle iron, as the batter will spread as it cooks.
5. Cook to Golden Brown: Close the waffle iron and cook for about two minutes per waffle, or until they are golden brown and cooked through. Cooking time may vary depending on your waffle iron and the cornbread mix used. Watch for steam to subside and the waffles to turn golden brown, indicating they are ready.
6. Serve Immediately: Carefully remove the cornbread waffles from the waffle iron and serve them immediately alongside the hot chili. Cornbread waffles are best enjoyed fresh and warm, offering a delightful contrast to the chili. This recipe makes approximately 10 waffles, perfect for serving alongside the chili.

Nutrition Facts (Estimated)

Please note that the following nutrition information is an estimate and can vary based on specific ingredient brands and portion sizes. This is intended as a general guide to understand the nutritional profile of this recipe.

Servings: 6-8 servings (Chili) / Approximately 10 waffles (Cornbread Waffles)

Estimated Calories per Serving (Chili only): Approximately 450-550 calories

Approximate Breakdown (per serving of chili):

• Protein: 30-35g
• Fat: 25-30g
• Carbohydrates: 30-35g
• Fiber: 8-10g

Important Considerations:

• These values are estimates and can fluctuate based on the specific brands and types of ingredients used (e.g., lean vs. regular ground beef, specific cornbread mix).
• Toppings such as sour cream, cheese, and green onions will add to the calorie and fat content.
• Cornbread waffles will add additional calories and carbohydrates to the overall meal. The nutritional content of the waffles will depend heavily on the specific cornbread mix used.

For more precise nutritional information, you can use online nutrition calculators and input the specific brands and quantities of ingredients you use in this recipe.

Preparation Time

This Classic Chili Bowl with Cornbread Waffles recipe is designed for convenience and ease, especially with the slow cooker method for the chili. Here’s a breakdown of the estimated preparation and cooking times:

• Prep Time: Approximately 30-45 minutes
  • This includes browning the ground beef, draining the fat, chopping the vegetables (onion, jalapenos, bell peppers), mincing the garlic, and gathering and measuring all the spices and other ingredients. Using a vegetable slicer can significantly reduce chopping time.
• Cook Time (Chili): 4-8 hours on low in the slow cooker
  • The slow cooker does most of the work! You can start the chili in the morning and have it ready for dinner in the evening. The longer cooking time on low heat allows the flavors to fully develop and meld together.
• Cook Time (Cornbread Waffles): Approximately 20 minutes (including batter prep and waffle cooking)
  • The cornbread waffles are quick to prepare and cook just before serving. Each waffle takes only about 2 minutes to cook in the waffle iron.
• Total Time: Approximately 4 hours 15 minutes to 8 hours 15 minutes (depending on slow cooker time)

Tips for Time Management:

• Morning Prep: Prepare the chili in the morning before work or other activities. The slow cooker will take care of the rest throughout the day.
• Vegetable Prep Ahead: You can chop the vegetables the night before and store them in airtight containers in the refrigerator to save time on the day of cooking.
• Cornbread Waffles Just Before Serving: Make the cornbread waffles while the chili is finishing up in the slow cooker or just before you are ready to serve. This ensures they are fresh and warm.

How to Serve

This Classic Chili Bowl with Cornbread Waffles is a versatile and comforting meal that can be served in various ways. Here are some ideas to enhance your serving experience:

• Classic Bowl Presentation: Ladle the hot chili into bowls, leaving room for toppings. Place a warm cornbread waffle alongside or crumbled on top of the chili. This is the traditional and most straightforward way to serve this dish.
• Topping Bar Extravaganza: Set up a topping bar with a variety of options so everyone can customize their chili to their liking. Great topping choices include:
  • Dairy: Sour cream, shredded cheddar cheese, Monterey Jack cheese, crumbled cotija cheese, Greek yogurt (for a lighter option), queso fresco.
  • Fresh Produce: Chopped green onions, diced red onions, cilantro, avocado slices or guacamole, diced tomatoes, pickled jalapenos.
  • Crunch and Texture: Crumbled tortilla chips, oyster crackers, crumbled cornbread (if you have extra!), fried onions, bacon bits.
  • Sauces and Condiments: Hot sauce (various types to cater to different spice preferences), salsa, BBQ sauce, ranch dressing (for a surprising twist!).
• Cornbread Waffle Variations: Get creative with your cornbread waffles!
  • Savory Waffles: Add shredded cheese, diced jalapenos, or corn kernels to the cornbread batter for extra flavor and texture.
  • Sweet and Savory Contrast: Drizzle a touch of honey or maple syrup over the cornbread waffles to enhance their sweetness and create a delightful contrast with the savory chili.
  • Waffle Sandwiches: Use the cornbread waffles as “bread” to make mini chili sandwiches. Spoon chili between two waffle halves for a fun and portable way to enjoy the meal.
• Side Dishes (Optional): While the chili and cornbread waffles are a complete meal on their own, you can add a simple side dish to round out the meal, especially for larger gatherings:
  • Simple Salad: A fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the rich chili.
  • Coleslaw: Creamy or vinegar-based coleslaw offers a cool and crunchy side dish.
  • Steamed Vegetables: Steamed broccoli, green beans, or carrots can add a healthy and colorful side.
• Beverage Pairings: Complement your chili and cornbread waffle meal with appropriate beverages:
  • Cold Drinks: Iced tea, lemonade, soda, or water are refreshing choices.
  • Beer: A light lager or a slightly hoppy IPA can pair well with chili.
  • Wine (Red): A medium-bodied red wine like Merlot or Zinfandel can complement the flavors of the chili.

Additional Tips for Perfect Chili and Cornbread Waffles

To ensure your Classic Chili Bowl with Cornbread Waffles is a resounding success, here are five additional tips to keep in mind:

1. Spice Level Customization: Chili is all about flavor, and spice is a key component. Adjust the spice level to your preference and that of your diners. If you prefer a milder chili, reduce or omit the cayenne pepper and remove the seeds and membranes from the jalapenos. For a spicier chili, add more cayenne pepper, include the jalapeno seeds and membranes, or incorporate a hotter chili pepper like serrano or habanero (use cautiously!). You can also offer hot sauce on the side for those who like extra heat.
2. Meat Variations: While ground beef is classic, feel free to experiment with other meats. Ground turkey or ground chicken can be used for a leaner option. For a richer and more complex chili, consider using a combination of ground beef and ground pork, or even adding chunks of beef chuck roast that have been browned before slow cooking. For a vegetarian chili, omit the meat and add more beans, lentils, or vegetables like sweet potatoes or butternut squash.
3. Bean Variety: Chili beans are convenient, but you can use a mix of different beans for a more complex flavor and texture. Consider adding kidney beans, pinto beans, black beans, or cannellini beans. You can use dried beans that have been soaked and cooked, or canned beans (drained and rinsed). Experimenting with different bean combinations can elevate your chili.
4. Cornbread Waffle Mix-Ins: Elevate your cornbread waffles beyond the basic mix by adding delicious mix-ins. Stir in shredded cheddar cheese, crumbled bacon, diced jalapenos, corn kernels, or herbs like chives or thyme into the cornbread batter before cooking. These additions will enhance the flavor and texture of the waffles and complement the chili even further.
5. Make Ahead and Freezer Friendly: Chili is an excellent make-ahead dish and freezes beautifully. You can prepare the chili a day or two in advance and store it in the refrigerator. In fact, the flavors often improve overnight. For longer storage, chili freezes exceptionally well. Allow the chili to cool completely, then transfer it to freezer-safe containers or bags. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight or use the defrost setting on your microwave. Cornbread waffles are best enjoyed fresh, but you can make the batter ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for a few hours. Cook the waffles just before serving for the best texture.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) – Ingredients

Here are some common questions you might have about the ingredients used in this Classic Chili Bowl Recipe:

Q1: Can I substitute ground turkey or chicken for ground beef?

A: Yes, absolutely! Ground turkey or ground chicken are excellent substitutes for ground beef, especially if you are looking for a leaner option. The cooking process remains the same. Just be sure to brown the ground turkey or chicken thoroughly and drain any excess liquid. Keep in mind that ground turkey and chicken have a milder flavor than beef, so you might want to adjust the seasoning slightly to your taste.

Q2: I don’t have chili beans. What else can I use?

A: If you don’t have chili beans, you can easily substitute with other types of beans. Kidney beans, pinto beans, or a combination of both are excellent choices for chili. You can use canned beans (drain and rinse them before adding) or dried beans that have been soaked and cooked. If you use plain beans instead of chili beans, you might want to add a bit more chili powder or other chili-style seasonings to compensate for the flavor that chili beans usually provide.

Q3: Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of tomato sauce?

A: Yes, you can use fresh tomatoes instead of tomato sauce, but it will require a bit more preparation. You’ll need about 4-5 cups of diced fresh tomatoes to replace the 30 oz of tomato sauce. For the best flavor and texture, it’s recommended to peel and seed the tomatoes before dicing them. You may also need to cook the chili for a longer time to allow the fresh tomatoes to break down and create a saucier consistency. Canned crushed tomatoes or diced tomatoes (drained) can also be used as a substitute for tomato sauce, offering a texture closer to fresh tomatoes.

Q4: I don’t like spicy food. How can I make this chili milder?

A: To make this chili milder, there are several adjustments you can make. First, remove the seeds and membranes from the jalapenos, as most of the heat is concentrated there. You can also reduce or omit the cayenne pepper entirely. Choose mild Rotel diced tomatoes and green chilies or substitute them with regular diced tomatoes and a very mild chili pepper like poblano or Anaheim if you still want a hint of pepper flavor. Taste the chili as it cooks and adjust the spices accordingly. You can always add more spice later, but it’s harder to remove it once it’s in.

Q5: Is liquid smoke necessary? What if I don’t have it?

A: Liquid smoke is optional in this recipe. It adds a smoky flavor that enhances the chili, but it’s not essential. If you don’t have liquid smoke, you can simply omit it. The chili will still be delicious without it. Alternatively, if you want to achieve a smoky flavor without liquid smoke, you can use smoked paprika in place of regular chili powder or add a small amount of chipotle peppers in adobo sauce (use sparingly as they are spicy and smoky). Slow cooking the chili also helps to develop deeper flavors, even without liquid smoke.

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