Mexican Cornbread Recipe

The Best Mexican Cornbread Recipe: Zesty, Golden Goodness

Creamy, spicy mexican cornbread brings comfort straight to your dinner table with unexpected flavor twists.

Jalapeños dance between golden corn kernels, creating a mouthwatering combination that surprises even seasoned home cooks.

Southwestern ingredients merge in this simple yet bold dish that transforms ordinary bread into something spectacular.

Soft, crumbly textures mingle with sharp cheese and zesty peppers, promising a delightful experience.

Corn masa and sharp cheddar provide a rich backdrop for adventurous palates seeking authentic taste sensations.

Packed with robust regional ingredients, this recipe connects you to traditional Mexican culinary traditions.

You’ll love how effortlessly this cornbread becomes the star of any meal or gathering.

Dive into this recipe and let your kitchen come alive with vibrant, spicy aromas.

Common Questions About Mexican Cornbread

  • Is Mexican Cornbread spicy?

Green chilies add a mild kick, but you can control heat by choosing mild or hot varieties. The cheese balances any spiciness.

  • Can I use different types of cheese?

Absolutely! Monterey Jack, pepper jack, or Mexican blend work great. Each cheese brings a unique flavor to the cornbread.

  • Do I need special cornmeal for this recipe?

Regular yellow cornmeal works perfectly. Just ensure it’s fresh for the best texture and flavor.

  • Is this cornbread good for breakfast?

Yes! It’s versatile and can be enjoyed as a breakfast side, snack, or accompaniment to soups and chili.

Why Mexican Cornbread Is A Must Have

  • Savor Hearty Comfort: This Mexican cornbread delivers a rich, satisfying meal that warms your soul with every bite, perfect for those craving a substantial and flavorful dish.
  • Customize with Ease: Packed with flexible ingredients like cheese and green chilies, the recipe invites personal creativity, allowing home cooks to adjust spice levels and add personal touches.
  • Quick Family Crowd-Pleaser: Requiring minimal preparation and cooking steps, this cornbread becomes an instant hit at potlucks, family dinners, and casual gatherings, ensuring everyone gets a delicious slice.
  • No-Fuss Preparation: With simple mixing and straightforward baking instructions, even novice cooks can confidently create a mouthwatering side dish that looks and tastes professionally made.

Ingredients For Mexican Cornbread

Main Ingredients:
  • Cornmeal: A hearty base that gives the bread its signature texture and authentic Mexican flavor.
  • Flour: Adds structure and helps bind the ingredients together.
  • Cheddar Cheese: Provides a rich, sharp flavor and creamy melted texture.
  • Eggs: Act as a crucial binding agent and add moisture to the cornbread.
Wet Ingredients:
  • Cream-Style Corn, Vegetable Oil: Enhance moisture and contribute to the bread's soft, tender crumb.
Flavor Enhancers:
  • Green Chilies, Salt, Sugar, Baking Powder: Add depth of flavor, balance, and help the cornbread rise with a perfect texture.

How To Make Mexican Cornbread

Step 1: Prepare Baking Station

Warm up your oven to 400°F and grab a 9×9 inch baking pan. Generously coat the inside with cooking spray or butter to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Create Dry Mixture

Grab a spacious mixing bowl and combine:
  • Cornmeal
  • All-purpose flour
  • Baking powder
  • Salt
  • Granulated sugar

Whisk these dry ingredients until they’re perfectly blended.

Step 3: Add Wet Ingredients

Pour into the dry mixture:
  • Cream-style corn
  • Vegetable oil
  • Large eggs

Stir everything together with a wooden spoon until the batter looks smooth and well-incorporated.

Step 4: Enhance with Flavor Boosters

Gently fold into the batter:
  • Shredded cheddar cheese
  • Diced green chilies

Mix carefully to distribute these tasty ingredients evenly throughout.

Step 5: Bake to Golden Perfection

Transfer the batter into your prepared baking pan. Slide the pan into the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes. Watch for a beautiful golden-brown top and a slightly firm center.

Step 6: Cool and Serve

Remove the cornbread from the oven and let it rest for 10-15 minutes. This helps the bread set and makes cutting easier. Slice and serve warm for maximum deliciousness.

Helpful Tips For Mexican Cornbread

  • Add extra shredded cheese on top for a crispy, golden crust that melts beautifully.
  • Swap green chilies with jalapeños for a spicier kick that elevates the bread's flavor profile.
  • Use buttermilk instead of regular milk to create a more tender, moist cornbread texture.
  • Experiment with mix-ins like crispy bacon bits or diced bell peppers to customize the recipe.
  • Check doneness by inserting a toothpick in the center – it should come out clean when fully baked.

Variations To Try With Mexican Cornbread

  • Jalapeño Popper Cornbread: Add diced jalapeños, cream cheese, and crispy bacon bits for a spicy, creamy kick.
  • Southwest Cornbread: Mix in black beans, diced tomatoes, and extra sharp cheddar for a hearty southwestern flavor profile.
  • Cornbread with Chorizo: Incorporate crumbled chorizo sausage and smoked paprika for a rich, smoky depth.
  • Cheesy Herb Cornbread: Blend in fresh chopped cilantro, parsley, and three different cheeses for a vibrant, aromatic version.

Pairing Suggestions For Mexican Cornbread

  • Savor Hearty Chili: Pair this cornbread with a robust, spicy beef or vegetarian chili that complements the cheese and green chilies, creating a satisfying meal bursting with southwestern flavors.
  • Refresh with Zesty Salsa: Serve alongside a bright, tangy fresh salsa made with tomatoes, onions, cilantro, and lime juice to cut through the cornbread's richness and add a vibrant contrast.
  • Cool Down with Creamy Sides: Balance the cornbread's spiciness with a smooth sour cream or creamy avocado crema that provides a cooling effect and enhances the overall taste experience.

Storage Directions For Mexican Cornbread

  • Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days, ensuring the cornbread is completely cooled before sealing to prevent moisture buildup.
  • Wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer bag. Freeze for up to 2 months, maintaining best quality and texture.
  • Warm slices at 350F for 10-15 minutes, wrapped in foil to prevent drying out. Unwrap for the last 2-3 minutes to restore crispy edges.
  • Zap individual slices for 15-20 seconds, placing a damp paper towel over them to keep moisture and prevent toughness.
Print
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Mexican Cornbread Recipe

Mexican Cornbread Recipe


5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.8 from 9 reviews

  • Total Time: 35-40 minutes
  • Yield: 8 1x

Description

Spicy Mexican cornbread brings southwestern flair to your dinner table with a zesty blend of jalapeños, cheese, and hearty cornmeal. Crisp edges and warm, comforting flavors invite you to savor this delightful southwestern specialty.


Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients:

  • 1 cup cornmeal
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

Wet Ingredients:

  • 1/2 cup vegetable oil
  • 2 eggs
  • 1 can cream-style corn

Additional Ingredients:

  • 1 tablespoon baking powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 cup sugar
  • 1/2 cup chopped green chilies

Instructions

  1. Warm the oven to 400F (200C) and prepare a 9×9 inch baking pan with a light coating of oil or butter.
  2. Combine dry ingredients in a spacious mixing bowl, creating a uniform powder mixture.
  3. Introduce cream-style corn, vegetable oil, and eggs into the dry ingredients, whisking until the batter achieves a smooth, consistent texture.
  4. Gently incorporate shredded cheddar cheese and chopped green chilies, folding carefully to distribute evenly throughout the mixture.
  5. Transfer the batter into the prepared baking pan, spreading it evenly to ensure uniform thickness.
  6. Place in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, monitoring until the top turns a rich golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center emerges clean.
  7. Remove from oven and allow the cornbread to rest for 5-10 minutes, which helps it set and makes slicing easier.
  8. Cut into squares and serve warm, enjoying the melted cheese and spicy chili notes.

Notes

  • Adjust spice levels by adding jalapeños or reducing green chilies for a milder version.
  • Use cast-iron skillet for crispy, golden-brown edges that elevate the cornbread’s texture.
  • Experiment with different cheese combinations like pepper jack or monterey jack for unique flavor profiles.
  • Make it gluten-free by substituting all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend or almond flour.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25-30 minutes
  • Category: Lunch, Dinner, Snacks, Appetizer
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: Mexican

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 8
  • Calories: 357 kcal
  • Sugar: 7 g
  • Sodium: 425 mg
  • Fat: 19 g
  • Saturated Fat: 5 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 13 g
  • Trans Fat: 0.1 g
  • Carbohydrates: 37 g
  • Fiber: 2 g
  • Protein: 8 g
  • Cholesterol: 50 mg
Michael Thompson

Michael Thompson

Founder & Recipe Developer

Expertise

  • Creating single-serving recipes tailored for individuals, small households, or meal preppers
  • Culinary arts with a focus on clean plating and natural styling for food photography
  • Working with fermented ingredients and dairy-based cooking techniques
  • Designing seasonal menus that use fresh, locally sourced produce

Education

Cascade Culinary Institute – Bend, OR

  • Program: Culinary Arts Certificate
  • Focus: Gained hands-on experience in professional kitchens, learning advanced recipe development, seasonal ingredient sourcing, and simple, beautiful food presentation.

ServSafe Food Handler Certification – Portland, OR

  • Program: Food Safety Certification
    Focus: Certified in core food safety and hygiene principles for both home and professional kitchens, with emphasis on ingredient handling, kitchen cleanliness, and safe preparation methods.

Mike’s kitchen journey began with a single goal: to make everyday meals feel like something worth celebrating.
After earning his Certificate in Culinary Arts from Cascade Culinary Institute, he spent years working with local farmers and small kitchens across Oregon, learning the beauty of seasonal, small-batch cooking.
Mike’s approach is simple, cook with what’s fresh, keep it approachable, and always leave room for a little creativity. When he’s not testing yogurt marinades or designing single-serving meals, you’ll find him hiking trails or hunting down the best berries at local markets.

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