Chili Cheese Cornbread
A savory blend of cornbread infused with chili powder, melted Cheddar, and topped with crispy bacon, perfect for comfort food cravings or a hearty side dish.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Sprinkle chopped green onion in a 1 1/2-quart round glass baking dish.
- Prepare the bacon slices and microwave on high for 5 minutes or until crisp, rotating every 2 minutes. Remove bacon to paper towels.
- Pour bacon drippings into a measuring cup, adding vegetable oil if necessary to make 1/4 cup.
- In a mixing bowl, combine cornmeal, flour, sugar, salt, baking powder, and chili powder.
- In another bowl, beat the eggs and milk together.
- Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, stirring until just combined.
- Pour the batter into the prepared dish over the green onions.
- Crumble the cooked bacon and sprinkle over the batter.
- Top with shredded Cheddar cheese and paprika.
- Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 20 minutes or until golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider using jalapeños or diced bell peppers in the batter. If you want a bit more heat, increase the chili powder or add cayenne pepper. For a lighter option, substitute half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour. Ensure that your baking dish is well-greased to prevent sticking, especially with the cheese on top.
Serving Suggestions
This chili cheese cornbread pairs beautifully with Hickory Smoked Barbecue Pork Sandwiches for a hearty meal. Serve it alongside a fresh salad or a bowl of soup for a comforting dinner. You can also slice it into squares and serve it as a side at gatherings or potlucks, making it a versatile addition to any table.
Storage & Reheating
Allow the cornbread to cool completely before storing it in an airtight container. It can be kept at room temperature for up to 2 days or in the refrigerator for up to a week. To reheat, wrap individual pieces in foil and warm them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes for best results.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Chili Cheese Cornbread contains roughly 471 calories, with 10g protein, 54g carbohydrates, and 25g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (51% of the Daily Value), iron (29% of the Daily Value), and calcium (23% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1324mg per serving (58% 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 make this cornbread ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the batter a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just remember to give it a good stir before baking. However, for the best texture, it's recommended to bake it fresh on the day of serving.
Can I use a different type of cheese?
Absolutely! While Cheddar cheese is traditional, feel free to experiment with other cheeses like Monterey Jack or Pepper Jack for a spicier kick. Mixing different cheeses can also create a richer flavor profile.
What can I serve with chili cheese cornbread?
This dish complements a variety of meals. It works well as a side with chili, stews, or even grilled meats. Pair it with a refreshing salad or a bowl of Tomato Hors 'Doeuvres for a delightful contrast in flavors.
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).