Calico Corn Bread
A savory, cheesy cornbread with vibrant green peppers, onions, and pimientos, perfect for family meals or potlucks with a moist, flavorful crumb.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Sift dry ingredients together and mix onion, pepper, and pimiento with them.
- Blend eggs, milk, and melted shortening and stir into dry ingredients just long enough to mix.
- Fold in grated American cheese.
- Pour batter into a well-greased muffin pan.
- Bake at 400°F for 25 to 30 minutes until golden brown.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter texture, make sure not to overmix the batter after adding the wet ingredients. You can substitute buttermilk for milk for a tangy flavor, or use olive oil instead of shortening. To enhance the flavor, consider adding jalapeños or corn kernels. This recipe is versatile and can incorporate other vegetables, making it a great addition to your collection of American recipes.
Serving Suggestions
This calico corn bread is perfect as a side dish with soups or stews, especially with a bowl of chili. It pairs beautifully with Cream-Style Corn Casserole for a comforting meal. Serve warm with butter or honey for added flavor. Consider serving it alongside a fresh salad or as part of a brunch spread with dishes like Carrot-Pineapple Cupcakes.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover cornbread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to a week or freeze for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply warm it in the oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes or microwave individual pieces until heated through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Calico Corn Bread contains roughly 608 calories, with 10g protein, 96g carbohydrates, and 21g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (41% of the Daily Value), vitamin A (37% of the Daily Value), and iron (29% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1836mg per serving (80% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of cheese?
Yes, you can substitute grated cheddar or pepper jack cheese for a different flavor profile. Just make sure to adjust the quantity based on how cheesy you want it. Keep in mind that different cheeses may alter the texture slightly.
Is it possible to make this recipe gluten-free?
Absolutely! You can replace the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. Ensure that all other ingredients are gluten-free as well. The baking powder should be gluten-free too, which is common in most brands.
How can I make this recipe spicier?
For a spicy kick, consider adding diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the batter. You could also use a spicier cheese like pepper jack. Adjust according to your heat preference to ensure it suits your taste.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).