Bring the Heat with This Delicious Jalapeño Cheddar Cornbread Recipe

Photo byAngie Bright

Jalapeño Cheddar Cornbread is a dish that brings a fiery twist to the classic cornbread. The combination of the sweetness from corn kernels and the sharpness of cheddar cheese creates a flavor profile that's hard to resist. Throw in the heat of fresh jalapeños, and you have a dish that truly stands out.

Cornbread has been a staple in many households for generations, typically accompanying chili, soups, or even BBQ dishes. But this version takes things to a whole new level with the addition of bold, spicy flavors and rich, melty cheese. It's the kind of dish that adds a bit of excitement to any meal, turning a simple side into a star of the table.

The magic of this Jalapeño Cheddar Cornbread lies in its balance of flavors. The sharp cheddar provides a creamy, savory punch, while the jalapeños add just the right amount of heat without overwhelming the taste buds. And let’s not forget the bits of sweet corn and diced onions, which bring freshness and texture to the dish.

Recipe: Jalapeño Cheddar Cornbread

Ingredients:

• ¼ cup vegetable oil
• 1 cup buttermilk
• 1 cup cornmeal
• ½ cup all-purpose flour
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• ½ teaspoon baking soda
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• 1½ cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
• 1 cup corn kernels
• ½ white onion, diced
• 2 medium jalapeño peppers, seeded and diced (approximately ½ cup)

Directions:

1. Begin by placing a greased 8-inch cast-iron skillet into a cold oven. Preheat the oven to 350°F, allowing the skillet to heat up as the oven reaches the desired temperature.
2. In a medium bowl, combine the eggs, vegetable oil, buttermilk, and cornmeal. Mix well and set the mixture aside.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and garlic powder.
4. Slowly pour the egg mixture into the dry ingredients, stirring until everything is well combined.
5. Fold in the shredded cheddar cheese, corn kernels, diced onion, and diced jalapeños, ensuring the ingredients are evenly distributed.
6. Carefully remove the preheated skillet from the oven, and pour the batter into the hot skillet.
7. Bake for 45 to 50 minutes, or until the cornbread is golden brown. To check for doneness, insert a toothpick into the center of the bread; it should come out clean or with a few dry crumbs.
8. Once the cornbread is finished, allow it to cool for about 20 minutes before cutting into slices and serving.

The crispy edges from the hot cast-iron skillet give the cornbread a delightful texture, contrasting with the soft, cheesy interior. It's a perfect side for anything from a bowl of chili to a hearty barbecue spread.

The beauty of this Jalapeño Cheddar Cornbread is its versatility. It can stand alone as a snack, pair beautifully with savory meals, or even add a kick to breakfast. For those who enjoy their dishes with a bit of heat, this recipe is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.

So next time you're craving a comforting, yet exciting twist on cornbread, try this recipe. It's bound to bring warmth and flavor to your table, with just the right amount of spice.

The Jalapeño Cheddar Cornbread recipe is a flavorful twist on traditional cornbread, blending the sweetness of corn with the heat of jalapeños and the sharpness of cheddar cheese. This dish is a favorite for many who enjoy a spicy, cheesy variation of cornbread, perfect for pairing with soups, stews, or even as a side to a BBQ meal.

Several versions of this recipe exist, but the key ingredients and preparation techniques are consistent. Southern Livingsuggests using a cast-iron skillet for a crispy crust, and recommends incorporating buttermilk and freshly grated sharp cheddar for a moist, rich texture. Jalapeños can be adjusted for spice levels—remove the seeds for a milder flavor or leave them in if you prefer more heat​(Southern Living). Allrecipes emphasizes the importance of balancing the heat of the jalapeños with the sweetness of corn kernels and the richness of cheese​(Allrecipes).

Feel free to adjust the cheese type or even add in extras like bacon or green onions to customize the dish to your liking. If you’re serving this as a side, it pairs particularly well with chili, as the spice of the jalapeños complements hearty, savory dishes.

You can find more detailed versions of this recipe and its variations on Southern Living and Allrecipes​(Southern Living)​(Allrecipes).