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Crispy Cheesy Jalapeño Cornbread

crispy cheesy jalapeño cornbread - featured image
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This Southern-style cornbread is baked in a hot cast iron skillet for a crispy crust, packed with sharp cheddar, fresh jalapeños, and a tender crumb. It’s a quick, crowd-pleasing side dish with a punchy twist that pairs perfectly with chili, barbecue, or fried chicken.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup yellow cornmeal (fine or medium grind)
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 2 teaspoons baking powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 2 tablespoons granulated sugar (optional)
  • 2 large eggs, room temperature
  • 1 cup buttermilk
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
  • 1 1/2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
  • 2–3 medium fresh jalapeños, thinly sliced, seeds removed for milder heat
  • 1/2 cup Monterey Jack or Pepper Jack cheese, shredded (optional)
  • 1–2 tablespoons vegetable oil or bacon drippings (for greasing skillet)

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Place cast iron skillet inside to heat.
  2. In a large bowl, whisk together cornmeal, flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and sugar.
  3. In a separate bowl, beat eggs, then add buttermilk and melted butter. Whisk until smooth.
  4. Pour wet ingredients into dry ingredients and stir gently until just combined. Do not overmix.
  5. Fold in shredded cheddar cheese and sliced jalapeños (reserve a few rings for topping). Add Monterey Jack or Pepper Jack if using.
  6. Carefully remove hot skillet from oven using oven mitts. Swirl in vegetable oil or bacon drippings to coat bottom and sides.
  7. Pour batter into skillet; it should sizzle. Scatter reserved jalapeño slices and extra cheese on top if desired.
  8. Bake for 20-25 minutes, until top is golden brown, edges are crispy, and a toothpick inserted in center comes out mostly clean.
  9. Let cornbread cool in skillet for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.

Notes

For gluten-free, use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. For dairy-free, substitute buttermilk with oat or almond milk plus lemon juice, and use vegan butter and cheese. Add fresh corn kernels or green onions for extra flavor. Preheating the skillet is key for a crispy crust. Don’t overmix the batter to keep the cornbread tender.

Nutrition

Keywords: cornbread, jalapeño, cheesy, southern, skillet, easy, comfort food, side dish, crispy, cast iron

Find it online: https://bitefuljoy.com/crispy-cheesy-jalape-n-o-cornbread-recipe-easy-southern-side/