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Hatch Chile Cheese Cornbread Recipe

4.9 from 85 reviews

This Hatch Chile Cheese Cornbread recipe offers a delicious twist on traditional cornbread by incorporating roasted Hatch chiles and melty cheddar cheese. Perfectly moist with a golden crust, it balances a slight sweetness with a spicy kick and cheesy richness, making it an ideal side for southwestern dishes or a comforting snack on its own.

Ingredients

Scale

Dry Ingredients

  • 1 cup cornmeal
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • ⅓ cup sugar (optional, for slight sweetness)
  • 1 tablespoon baking powder
  • ½ teaspoon salt

Wet Ingredients

  • 1 cup milk or buttermilk
  • 2 large eggs
  • ½ cup melted butter or oil

Additional Ingredients

  • 1 cup shredded cheddar or cheese blend
  • 1 cup chopped roasted Hatch chiles (mild or spicy)
  • Optional: ½ cup corn kernels for extra texture

Instructions

  1. Mix the Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the cornmeal, all-purpose flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. Whisk thoroughly until the ingredients are evenly mixed.
  2. Mix the Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the milk or buttermilk, eggs, and melted butter until the mixture is smooth and uniform.
  3. Combine the Batter: Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients. Stir gently until just combined. Do not overmix; small lumps in the batter are acceptable.
  4. Add the Flavor: Fold in the shredded cheddar cheese and chopped roasted Hatch chiles. If using, incorporate the corn kernels at this stage to add extra texture.
  5. Bake the Cornbread: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a baking dish or cast iron skillet and pour in the batter evenly. Bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
  6. Serve and Enjoy: Allow the cornbread to rest for a few minutes after baking. Slice and serve warm to enjoy the cheesy, spicy flavors at their best.

Notes

  • You can substitute buttermilk with regular milk if desired, though buttermilk adds extra tenderness.
  • Adjust the heat level by choosing mild or spicy Hatch chiles according to your preference.
  • The optional corn kernels add a pleasant pop of sweetness and texture but can be omitted for a smoother cornbread.
  • For a gluten-free option, substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.
  • To enhance the crust, consider baking in a preheated cast iron skillet.
  • Cheddar cheese can be swapped with Monterey Jack or a Mexican cheese blend for varying flavor profiles.

Keywords: Hatch chile cornbread, cheesy cornbread, southwestern cornbread, roasted chile recipe, easy cornbread, spicy cornbread, cheese cornbread, Hatch chile recipes