The Absolute Best Mexican Cornbread Recipe

Mexican cornbread is a dish that combines the best of two worlds: the familiar comfort of cornbread and the bold flavors of Mexican cuisine. This absolute Mexican cornbread recipe is everything you love about traditional cornbread but with a spicy, cheesy twist. Whether you're looking to spice up your regular meal routine or searching for a crowd-pleasing side dish for gatherings, this recipe is your go-to.

Why You'll Love This Absolute Mexican Cornbread

This cornbread recipe stands out because of its unique balance between sweet, savory, and spicy. The addition of jalapeños and cheddar cheese gives the cornbread a kick, while the cornmeal base keeps it hearty and comforting. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to make. You can whip up a batch in no time, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or holiday feasts alike.

Recipe Overview

Name: Absolute Mexican Cornbread

Description: A savory and spicy take on classic cornbread, featuring jalapeños, cheddar cheese, and a hint of sweetness. This Mexican cornbread is perfect as a side dish for soups, stews, or a Mexican-inspired meal.

Ingredients List

• 1 cup cornmeal
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 tablespoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 cup sugar
• 1 cup buttermilk
• 1/2 cup melted butter
• 2 large eggs
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/4 cup diced jalapeños (seeds removed for less heat)
• 1/2 cup creamed corn
• Optional: 1/4 cup chopped cilantro for garnish

Substitutions: You can swap cheddar cheese for Monterey Jack or Pepper Jack for extra spice. If you don't have buttermilk, substitute it with regular milk and add 1 tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice to create a homemade buttermilk substitute.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat Your Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Grease an 8x8-inch baking dish or cast-iron skillet to prevent sticking.

2. Combine Dry Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the cornmeal, all-purpose flour, baking powder, salt, and sugar. Make sure the ingredients are evenly distributed.

3. Mix Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together the buttermilk, melted butter, and eggs until smooth. Slowly pour the wet ingredients into the dry mixture, stirring until just combined.

4. Add the Cheese, Jalapeños, and Corn

Fold in the shredded cheddar cheese, diced jalapeños, and creamed corn into the batter. Be careful not to overmix; you want the batter to stay light and fluffy.

5. Bake the Cornbread

Pour the batter into your greased dish or skillet and spread it evenly. Bake in the preheated oven for 25–30 minutes or until the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

6. Serve and Enjoy

Once baked, let the cornbread cool for a few minutes before slicing it into squares. For an extra touch, sprinkle chopped cilantro on top for added flavor and color.

Cooking Times

• Preparation Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 25–30 minutes
• Total Time: 40–45 minutes

Serving Suggestions

This absolute Mexican cornbread is versatile and can be served with a variety of dishes. It pairs perfectly with a bowl of chili, a hearty stew, or a side to your favorite Mexican meals like enchiladas or tacos. You can also serve it with sour cream or guacamole for an added layer of flavor.

Storage and Reheating

Store leftover Mexican cornbread in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes, or microwave individual pieces for 20–30 seconds until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Make This Cornbread Less Spicy?

Yes! If you prefer a milder cornbread, simply reduce the amount of jalapeños or remove the seeds. You can also substitute jalapeños with green bell peppers for a completely mild version.

Can I Make This Cornbread Gluten-Free?

Yes, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Just ensure that the blend includes a binding agent like xanthan gum to hold the bread together.

Can I Freeze Mexican Cornbread?

Absolutely! To freeze, wrap the cornbread tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and place it in an airtight container or freezer bag. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in the oven before serving.

Conclusion

This absolute Mexican cornbread recipe is the perfect combination of spice, cheese, and classic cornbread flavor. It’s easy to prepare and guaranteed to be a hit whether you're serving it at family gatherings, potlucks, or as a side dish to your weeknight meals. Give it a try, and don’t forget to share your results in the comments below. We’d love to see how your cornbread turns out!