Green Chile Cornbread – A Savory, Cheesy, and Slightly Spicy Delight That Will Spice Up Any Meal

If you're ready to take your cornbread to the next level, this Green Chile Cornbread will knock your socks off! This moist and flavorful dish combines the classic richness of cornbread with the bold flavors of roasted green chiles and cheddar cheese, making it a perfect side for any meal or even a snack on its own. The subtle heat of the chiles paired with the sweetness of corn and the creamy texture from sour cream and cheddar is simply irresistible. Whether you're serving it with a bowl of chili, at a barbecue, or alongside your favorite soup, this Green Chile Cornbread is bound to become a household favorite.

Scroll down for the recipe!

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The Inspiration Behind Green Chile Cornbread

Cornbread has long been a staple in Southern and Southwestern cuisine, but adding green chiles takes it to a whole new level. Hatch chiles or Anaheim chiles bring a mild heat and smoky flavor that perfectly complements the sweetness of corn. Cheddar cheese melts into the batter, creating a rich, cheesy experience in every bite. This cornbread isn’t just a side dish—it’s a flavor-packed companion that stands out with its unique twist on a beloved classic.

Why Green Chile Cornbread Will Be Your New Favorite Cornbread Recipe

This Green Chile Cornbread recipe combines all the best things about cornbread with a little extra kick. The roasted green chiles add a smoky depth, while the corn kernels bring bursts of sweetness. The cheddar cheese melts beautifully into the batter, creating cheesy pockets throughout the bread. Sour cream gives it a moist, tender crumb, and the cornmeal and flour blend creates a perfectly soft yet slightly crumbly texture. It’s savory, cheesy, slightly spicy, and just all-around delicious.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving, Based on 12 Servings):

• Calories: 270 kcal
• Fat: 14g
• Carbohydrates: 29g
• Protein: 7g
• Sodium: 500mg
• Fiber: 2g

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Serving Suggestions and Pairings

Green Chile Cornbread is incredibly versatile and pairs well with a variety of dishes. Serve it alongside a hearty bowl of chili, barbecue ribs, or a big pot of soup for a meal that’s both filling and flavorful. It also goes wonderfully with fried chicken or grilled meats at a cookout. Top a slice with butter or a drizzle of honey for a sweet and savory treat, or serve it with sour cream and extra green chiles for even more kick!

Storage and Reheating Tips

This cornbread stores beautifully! Keep leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, wrap slices individually in plastic wrap, place them in a freezer bag, and freeze for up to two months. To reheat, simply pop a slice in the microwave for 20-30 seconds or warm it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes until heated through.

Fun Fact: The History of Cornbread

Cornbread has roots that stretch back to Native American cooking. Native Americans taught early European settlers how to grind corn into meal to make bread, which became a staple in the colonies. Over time, cornbread became a Southern classic, often served with beans, stews, or fried dishes. Adding green chiles gives this historic bread a Southwestern twist, reflecting the region’s love for bold flavors and spicy ingredients!

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Cooking Tips

1. Spice it Up: If you love extra heat, swap mild green chiles for spicier varieties like poblano or even jalapeño peppers.
2. Customize the Cheese: While cheddar is delicious, you can also use pepper jack for an extra kick or mozzarella for a more subtle cheese flavor.
3. Perfect Crust: For a golden, crispy bottom, bake the cornbread in a preheated cast-iron skillet rather than a baking dish.

Optional Variations

• Extra Cheesy: Add an extra cup of shredded cheese on top of the cornbread just before baking for an ultra-cheesy finish.
• Sweet and Savory: Stir in a tablespoon of honey or sugar for a sweet contrast to the savory green chiles.
• Meaty Addition: For an even heartier version, mix in crumbled cooked bacon or diced ham into the batter.

Green Chile Cornbread Recipe

Ingredients:

• 1 ¼ cups fine cornmeal (190g)
• 1 ¼ cups all-purpose flour (175g)
• 1 ½ teaspoons salt
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1 tablespoon baking powder
• ¼ cup sugar (50g)
• ½ cup unsalted butter, softened (8 tablespoons)
• ½ cup sour cream (115g)
• 2 large eggs
• 1 ¼ cups milk
• 2 cups chopped, roasted green chiles (Anaheim or Hatch) or 2 (7-ounce) cans, drained
• 1 cup corn kernels (130g), defrosted if frozen, drained if canned
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (4 ounces, 113g)

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish or cast-iron skillet.
2. Prepare the dry ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the cornmeal, flour, salt, baking powder, and baking soda. Set aside.
3. Mix the wet ingredients: In a separate large bowl, beat together the softened butter and sugar until smooth and creamy. Beat in the sour cream and eggs until well combined.
4. Combine wet and dry ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with the milk. Mix until just combined.
5. Add mix-ins: Stir in the chopped green chiles, corn kernels, and shredded cheddar cheese until evenly distributed in the batter.
6. Bake: Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish or skillet. Smooth the top, and bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the top is golden brown, the center springs back when pressed, and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
7. Cool and serve: Allow the cornbread to cool almost completely before slicing and serving. Enjoy with butter, honey, or your favorite chili or soup!

Green Chile Cornbread is the perfect blend of cheesy, spicy, and savory, with just the right amount of moisture and fluffiness. It’s easy to make and adds an exciting twist to your regular cornbread routine. Serve it with your favorite comfort foods, bring it to a potluck, or enjoy it as a snack—it’s sure to satisfy with every bite!