Hot Cheese Cornbread
Hot cheese cornbread offers a warm, cheesy, and slightly sweet flavor with a moist texture, perfect as a comforting side for family dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F.
- Sift together flour, cornmeal, sugar, salt, and baking powder.
- Add shredded cheese, milk, egg, and shortening; beat with a rotary beater about 1 minute or until smooth.
- Pour batter into a greased 8-inch square pan.
- Bake for 30 minutes.
- Cut into squares and serve while hot.
Tips & Substitutions
For a spicier kick, consider adding diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper to the batter. You can substitute the sharp cheese with pepper jack for an extra flavor boost. If you prefer a healthier option, replace half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour. This dish is a great side for your favorite soups or stews, especially with my Best Butter Cookies for dessert.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the hot cheese cornbread straight from the oven for the best flavor and texture. It pairs wonderfully with chili, soups, or a fresh garden salad. You can also enjoy it as a side with grilled meats. For a fun twist, try serving it with Bowl 'N' All Spinach Dip as a delightful appetizer.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover cornbread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to three months. To reheat, place individual squares in the microwave for about 20-30 seconds, or warm in the oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes until heated through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Hot Cheese Cornbread contains roughly 456 calories, with 15g protein, 69g carbohydrates, and 14g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (35% of the Daily Value) and protein (30% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1410mg per serving (61% 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, feel free to experiment with different cheeses! Cheddar and Monterey Jack work well. For a bolder flavor, try using aged Gouda or a smoky cheese. Just ensure that the cheese you choose melts well to keep the cornbread's texture light and fluffy.
What can I substitute for shortening?
If you prefer not to use shortening, you can replace it with an equal amount of unsalted butter or coconut oil. Each option will give a slightly different flavor but will still yield a delicious cornbread. Just remember to melt the butter before mixing it in.
How can I make this recipe gluten-free?
To make this cornbread gluten-free, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free all-purpose blend. Ensure the blend contains xanthan gum for proper texture. This will allow you to enjoy the same delicious taste and texture without the gluten.
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).