Recipe for Cheesy Jalapeño Cornbread
Introduction:
This cheesy jalapeño cornbread is a perfect balance of savory, spicy, and cheesy. The soft, moist cornbread is studded with jalapeños for a little kick and melted cheddar cheese for a rich, gooey texture. It’s a great side dish to serve with chili, soups, or barbecues, and it’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser at any meal.
Ingredients:
- 1 1/2 cups cornmeal
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup buttermilk (or regular milk)
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1/2 cup cheddar cheese, shredded
- 2 jalapeños, finely chopped (seeds removed for less heat)
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh cilantro (optional)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for greasing)
Instructions:
- Preheat the oven:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Grease a 9×9-inch baking dish or a similar-sized pan with olive oil or butter.
- Mix dry ingredients:
- In a large bowl, whisk together the cornmeal, flour, baking powder, salt, baking soda, and sugar until well combined.
- Mix wet ingredients:
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs, buttermilk, and melted butter until smooth and well combined.
- Combine the wet and dry ingredients:
- Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
- Add cheese and jalapeños:
- Fold in the shredded cheddar cheese, chopped jalapeños, and cilantro (if using). Stir gently to distribute evenly.
- Pour into the baking dish:
- Pour the cornbread batter into the prepared baking dish and spread it out evenly with a spatula.
- Bake:
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown, and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Cool and serve:
- Allow the cornbread to cool for a few minutes before cutting into squares. Serve warm with butter, if desired.
This cheesy jalapeño cornbread is the perfect combination of flavors with just the right amount of heat and cheesy goodness. Enjoy it as a side to your favorite dishes or as a snack on its own!