The Bacon Cheddar Jalapeno Cornbread is a delightful twist on a classic dish. This savory bread is packed with the hearty flavors of bacon and cheddar, with a kick of heat from the jalapenos. It's a perfect accompaniment to chili or barbecue dishes, and it's just as delicious enjoyed on its own.
While most of the ingredients are straightforward and easy to find, two require special attention – cornmeal and buttermilk. Cornmeal, which gives the cornbread its characteristic texture and flavor, is not the same as cornflour or cornstarch. You'll find this in the baking aisle. Buttermilk, on the other hand, is usually available in the dairy section. It's thicker than regular milk and has a tangy flavor that contributes to the Cornbread's unique flavor.
Bacon Cheddar Jalapeno Cornbread Ingredients
Cornmeal: This is the main ingredient in any cornbread recipe. It gives the bread its unique texture and flavor.
All purpose flour: Adds structure to the bread, supporting the other ingredients.
Baking powder: Acts as a leavening agent, helping the bread to rise.
Salt: Enhances the flavors of the other ingredients.
Butter: Adds richness and depth of flavor.
Buttermilk: Its acidity reacts with the baking powder to help the bread rise. It also contributes to the bread's unique tangy flavor.
Egg: Binds the ingredients together.
Honey: Adds a touch of sweetness to balance the savory flavors.
Bacon: Brings a smoky, savory flavor.
Sharp cheddar cheese: Adds a delicious, tangy flavor and melts into the bread, creating pockets of cheesy goodness.
Jalapeno: Adds a kick of heat, which counters the sweetness of the cornbread.
One reader, Chev Saul says:
This bacon cheddar jalapeno cornbread recipe is a game-changer! The combination of savory bacon, sharp cheddar, and spicy jalapeno creates an explosion of flavors. The cornbread turns out moist and delicious, making it the perfect side dish for any meal. I highly recommend trying this recipe!
Techniques Required for Making This Cornbread Recipe
Preheat oven: Preheat the oven to 400°F before starting the recipe to ensure it reaches the desired temperature when the cornbread is ready to bake.
Melt bacon grease or butter in skillet: Place a tablespoon of bacon grease or butter in the bottom of an 8-inch cast iron skillet and heat it in the preheated oven until melted. This step helps to grease the skillet and adds flavor to the cornbread.
Whisk together dry ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the cornmeal, flour, baking powder, and salt until well combined. This ensures even distribution of the leavening agents and salt in the cornbread batter.
Mix in wet ingredients and flavorings: After combining the dry ingredients, stir in the melted butter, buttermilk, egg, and honey until just combined. Then mix in the diced bacon, shredded cheddar, and minced jalapeño to evenly distribute these flavorful ingredients throughout the batter.
Bake the cornbread: Pour the cornbread batter into the preheated skillet and bake for approximately 20 minutes, or until the surface is golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Allow the cornbread to cool for 5 minutes before slicing and serving it warm.
How To Make Bacon Cheddar Jalapeno Cornbread
Inspired by Mexican flavors, this light cornbread recipe has loads of jalapeno and cheddar cheese. You can even add some bacon if you like!
Serves:
Ingredients
- 1cupcornmeal
- 1cupall purpose flour
- 1tbspbaking powder
- ½tspsalt
- ¼cupbutter,melted and cooled
- 1cupbuttermilk,at room temperature
- 1egg,whisked
- 1tbsphoney
- 5slicesbacon,cooked and diced, (1 tbsp bacon grease reserved)
- 4ozsharp cheddar cheese,shredded
- 1jalapeno,seeds and membranes removed and minced, more or less to taste
Instructions
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Preheat oven to 400 degrees F. Place a tablespoon of bacon grease (or butter) in the bottom of an 8-inch cast iron skillet and place in the oven to melt.
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In a large bowl, whisk together cornmeal, flour, baking powder, and salt. Stir in the melted butter, buttermilk, egg, and honey.
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Mix in diced bacon, shredded cheddar, and minced jalapeño. Using a pot holder, remove hot skillet from the oven. Pour cornbread batter into center of skillet, allowing melted bacon grease to spread to the edges.
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Smooth the top and bake for 20 minutes, or until surface is golden brown and a toothpick inserted in center comes out clean.
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Cool skillet for 5 minutes before slicing and serving cornbread warm.
Nutrition
- Calories: 457.05kcal
- Fat: 25.37g
- Saturated Fat: 12.27g
- Trans Fat: 0.57g
- Monounsaturated Fat: 8.28g
- Polyunsaturated Fat: 2.57g
- Carbohydrates: 42.85g
- Fiber: 1.66g
- Sugar: 5.73g
- Protein: 13.97g
- Cholesterol: 83.86mg
- Sodium: 554.50mg
- Calcium: 356.20mg
- Potassium: 203.20mg
- Iron: 2.66mg
- Vitamin A: 138.38µg
- Vitamin C: 3.19mg
Crucial Technique Tip for Bacon Cheddar Jalapeno Cornbread
When incorporating the bacon, cheddar cheese, and jalapeno into the cornbread batter, ensure they are evenly distributed. This will ensure every bite of the cornbread has a balanced flavor. Also, for an extra kick, you can leave some of the seeds in the jalapeno. Remember, the heat of a jalapeno is concentrated in the seeds and membrane, so adjust according to your heat preference.
Time-Saving Tips for Preparing Bacon Cheddar Jalapeno Cornbread
Prep ahead: Prepare the bacon, cheddar, and jalapeño the night before to save time on the day of baking.
Use pre-shredded cheese: Opt for pre-shredded cheddar to skip the extra step of grating the cheese.
Cast iron shortcut: Instead of using a cast iron skillet, use a regular baking dish for convenience.
Bake in advance: Bake the cornbread a day ahead and reheat it in the oven before serving for a time-saving option.
Double the batch: Make a double batch and freeze the extra cornbread for future use.
Substitute Ingredients For Bacon Cheddar Jalapeno Cornbread Recipe
bacon - Substitute with smoked turkey or tempeh: Smoked turkey or tempeh can provide a similar smoky flavor and texture to the dish without using pork.
cheddar cheese - Substitute with smoked gouda: Smoked gouda can provide a similar smoky and rich flavor to the cornbread, adding depth to the dish.
jalapeno - Substitute with poblano pepper: Poblano peppers have a mild heat and a slightly smoky flavor, making them a good substitute for jalapenos in the cornbread recipe.
Essential Tools for Making Bacon Cheddar Jalapeno Cornbread
Oven: An essential appliance for baking and roasting dishes to perfection.
Cast iron skillet: A versatile and durable cookware that provides even heat distribution and is perfect for making cornbread.
Whisk: A kitchen tool used for blending and mixing ingredients together smoothly.
Large bowl: Used for mixing and combining the dry and wet ingredients for the cornbread batter.
Skillet: A flat-bottomed pan used for sautéing, frying, and baking, perfect for making cornbread.
Pot holder: Essential for safely handling hot cookware and bakeware.
Toothpick: Used to check the doneness of the cornbread by inserting it into the center and ensuring it comes out clean.
Knife: Used for dicing the bacon and mincing the jalapeño.
Measuring cups and spoons: Essential for accurately measuring the ingredients for the cornbread recipe.
Storing and Freezing Your Bacon Cheddar Jalapeno Cornbread
- Allow the cornbread to cool completely before storing to prevent moisture from accumulating and making it soggy.
- Wrap the cooled cornbread tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil to keep it fresh and prevent it from drying out.
- Store the wrapped cornbread at room temperature for up to 2-3 days. Keep it in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.
- For longer storage, place the wrapped cornbread in an airtight container or resealable plastic bag and store it in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.
- To freeze the cornbread, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, then place it in a freezer-safe container or resealable plastic bag. Label the container or bag with the date and contents.
- Freeze the cornbread for up to 2-3 months. When ready to eat, thaw the cornbread overnight in the refrigerator or at room temperature for a few hours.
- To reheat the cornbread, wrap it in aluminum foil and place it in a preheated 350°F (175°C) oven for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through. Alternatively, you can microwave individual slices for 20-30 seconds, or until warm.
- For optimal flavor and texture, consume the bacon cheddar jalapeno cornbread within 1-2 days of baking, as it tends to dry out over time.
How To Reheat Leftover Bacon Cheddar Jalapeno Cornbread
To reheat leftover bacon cheddar jalapeno cornbread, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Wrap the cornbread in aluminum foil and place it on a baking sheet. Bake for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through. This method helps to retain the moisture and prevent the cornbread from drying out.
Another option is to reheat the cornbread in a skillet on the stovetop. Melt a small amount of butter in a skillet over medium heat. Place the cornbread in the skillet and cover with a lid. Heat for 3-5 minutes on each side, or until warmed through. This method will give the cornbread a slightly crispy exterior while keeping the interior soft and moist.
For a quick and easy reheating method, you can use the microwave. Place a damp paper towel over the cornbread and microwave on high for 20-30 seconds, or until heated through. Be careful not to overheat, as this can cause the cornbread to become tough and rubbery.
If you have an air fryer, you can use it to reheat the cornbread and give it a crispy exterior. Preheat the air fryer to 350°F (175°C) and place the cornbread in the basket. Cook for 3-5 minutes, or until heated through and slightly crispy on the outside.
For a unique twist, slice the leftover cornbread into thick pieces and toast them in a toaster or under the broiler. This will give the cornbread a crispy, caramelized surface while keeping the interior soft and warm. Serve the toasted cornbread with a pat of butter and a drizzle of honey for a delicious breakfast or snack.
Interesting Fact About Bacon Cheddar Jalapeno Cornbread
The bacon cheddar jalapeno cornbread recipe is a delicious and savory twist on traditional cornbread.
Is Making Bacon Cheddar Jalapeno Cornbread at Home Cost-Effective?
This bacon cheddar jalapeno cornbread recipe is quite cost-effective for a household. The ingredients are relatively affordable and commonly found in most kitchens. The combination of bacon, cheddar cheese, and jalapeno adds a burst of flavor to the classic cornbread. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people is around $10-$15, making it a budget-friendly option. The overall verdict rating for this recipe would be 9 out of 10 for its delicious taste, simplicity, and affordability.
Is This Cornbread Recipe Healthy or Unhealthy?
This bacon cheddar jalapeno cornbread recipe, while undeniably delicious, is not particularly healthy. The combination of cornmeal, all-purpose flour, butter, bacon, and cheddar cheese results in a high-calorie, high-fat, and high-sodium dish. The addition of jalapeno does provide some vitamin C, but it's not enough to offset the less healthy ingredients.
To make this recipe healthier, consider the following suggestions:
- Substitute half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour to increase fiber content
- Reduce the amount of butter and replace some of it with unsweetened applesauce or Greek yogurt to lower the fat content
- Use turkey bacon instead of regular bacon to reduce saturated fat and calories
- Opt for reduced-fat cheddar cheese to decrease the overall fat content
- Increase the amount of jalapeno or add other vegetables like diced bell peppers or corn kernels to boost the nutrient profile
- Serve the cornbread with a side salad or vegetable-based soup to create a more balanced meal
By making these adjustments, you can enjoy the flavors of bacon cheddar jalapeno cornbread while minimizing its potential negative impact on your health. Remember, moderation is key, and this dish can still be enjoyed occasionally as part of a well-rounded diet.
Editor's Opinion on This Bacon Cheddar Jalapeno Cornbread Recipe
This bacon cheddar jalapeno cornbread recipe is a delightful blend of savory and spicy flavors. The combination of crispy bacon, sharp cheddar, and spicy jalapeno adds depth to the classic cornbread. The use of buttermilk and honey provides a tender crumb and a touch of sweetness. Baking it in a cast iron skillet gives the cornbread a beautiful golden crust. It's a perfect accompaniment to a hearty chili or as a standalone snack. The recipe is simple to follow and yields a delicious, flavorful cornbread that will surely impress your guests.
Why trust this Bacon Cheddar Jalapeno Cornbread Recipe:
This recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, combining the irresistible flavors of bacon, cheddar cheese, and jalapeno in a classic cornbread base. The use of buttermilk and honey ensures a moist and tender texture, while the addition of butter and bacon grease infuses rich, savory notes. The incorporation of sharp cheddar cheese and jalapeno adds a delightful kick, elevating the overall taste. With a perfect balance of sweet, savory, and spicy elements, this recipe promises to deliver a memorable culinary experience.
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