No Southern table was complete without my dad’s jalapeño cornbread. Crisp on the outside, soft inside, and flecked with spicy bits of jalapeño, it was the perfect companion to hearty meals. Whether soaking up gravy or enjoyed on its own with a pat of butter, each bite carried the warmth of our family’s kitchen.

Jalapeño Cornbread

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A bold twist on classic Southern cornbread, this recipe infuses the comforting, golden crumb with the spicy kick of jalapeños and the richness of sharp cheddar, all baked to perfection in a cast-iron skillet.

• Author: Don Nicholas
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: 8 servings 1x
• Category: Sides & Sauces

Ingredients

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• 1 cup cornmeal
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 tablespoon baking powder
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup buttermilk
• 2 large eggs
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1 cup fresh or pickled jalapeños, finely chopped (adjust to taste)
• 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese

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Instructions

1. Preheat the Cast Iron Skillet: Place a cast-iron skillet on the stove over medium heat. Preheat the skillet while you prepare the batter.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a mixing bowl, combine the cornmeal, flour, baking powder, and salt. Mix well.
3. Combine Wet Ingredients: In another bowl, whisk together the buttermilk, eggs, and melted butter until well combined.
4. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. Be careful not to over mix; a few lumps are okay.
5. Add Jalapeños and Cheese: Fold in the chopped jalapeños and shredded cheddar cheese into the batter.
6. Grease and Pour: Carefully remove the preheated skillet from the stove. Grease it with a little butter or cooking spray. Pour the batter into the hot skillet.
7. Cook on Stove Top: Place the skillet back on the stove over medium heat. Cover and cook for about 15-20 minutes or until the edges are golden brown, and the center is set.
8. Check Doneness: To check if it’s done, insert a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean. Adjust cooking time as needed.
9. Serve with Love: Once cooked, let the cornbread cool for a few minutes before slicing. Serve with fresh creamery butter, and let the warm, spicy aroma fill the air.
10. Serving Suggestions: This Jalapeño Cornbread is the perfect companion to a classic Southern fried chicken dinner. Serve it alongside crispy, golden fried chicken, black-eyed peas, and mashed potatoes. The spicy kick of the jalapeños adds a delightful twist to the traditional meal, making it a family favorite for generations to come.