Ingredients:

For the Chili:

• 1 pound ground beef (or turkey)
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2-3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 bell pepper, chopped (any color)
• 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes (with juices)
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 2-3 tablespoons chili powder (to taste)
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 cup beef broth or water
• 1 tablespoon olive oil

For the Cornbread Topping:

• 1 cup cornmeal
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 tablespoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 tablespoon sugar (optional)
• 1 cup milk
• 1/4 cup vegetable oil or melted butter
• 1 large egg

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Chili:

* Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). * In a large skillet or pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and bell pepper, and sauté until softened, about 5 minutes. * Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute. * Add the ground beef (or turkey) and cook until browned. Drain excess fat if necessary. * Stir in the chili powder, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for another minute. * Add the diced tomatoes, tomato paste, kidney beans, black beans, and beef broth. Bring to a simmer and let cook for about 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally.

2. Make the Cornbread Topping:

* In a mixing bowl, combine the cornmeal, flour, baking powder, salt, and sugar (if using). * In another bowl, whisk together the milk, vegetable oil, and egg. * Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined.

3. Cream the Add the Meatballs:

* Add the browned meatballs back into the sauce. * Simmer for another 10-15 minutes, or until the meatballs are fully cooked through (internal temperature of 160°F or 70°C).

4. Assemble and Bake:

* Pour the chili mixture into a greased baking dish. * Carefully spoon the cornbread batter over the chili, spreading it evenly. * Bake in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes, or until the cornbread is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

5. Serve:

Let cool slightly before serving. Enjoy your Southwest Baked Chili Harmony, topped with cheese or fresh herbs if desired!

This Southwest Baked Chili Harmony is perfect for a cozy meal, and the cornbread topping adds a wonderful texture and flavor! Enjoy!