Mexican Cornbread is a savory twist on the classic Southern staple, combining rich flavors of cornmeal, cheese, jalapeños, and a hint of spice. Unlike traditional cornbread, this version packs a punch with bold ingredients that reflect the vibrant Mexican cuisine. Whether you’re serving it as a side dish or enjoying it as a meal on its own, this moist and flavorful bread is guaranteed to impress your taste buds.
What Makes Mexican Cornbread Unique?
- Bold flavors – A perfect balance of sweet and spicy.
- Moist texture – Thanks to added cheese and buttermilk.
- Versatile pairing – Goes well with chili, soups, and Tex-Mex dishes.
Mexican Cornbread is easy to prepare, making it a great choice for weeknight dinners or gatherings. In this recipe guide, we’ll walk you through the best way to make this delicious dish, explore variations, serving ideas, and even answer common FAQs like “Can you put Rotel in Mexican cornbread?”
👉 Before we dive in, check out these recipes that pair perfectly with Mexican Cornbread:
- Taco Spaghetti Recipe – A Tex-Mex fusion you’ll love!
- Cheesy Chili Mac Recipe – The ultimate comfort food!
- Easy Southern Fried Chicken Recipe – A crispy and juicy delight!
Are you ready to elevate your cornbread game? Let’s get started!
What You’ll Need
Essential Ingredients for Authentic Mexican Cornbread
To achieve the perfect balance of flavor and texture, you’ll need a combination of traditional cornbread ingredients and bold Mexican-inspired additions. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Cornmeal & Flour – A mix of both ensures the right texture.
- Cheese – Shredded cheddar or a Mexican blend for a rich, cheesy bite.
- Jalapeños – Fresh or pickled, adding a spicy kick.
- Buttermilk – Keeps the cornbread moist and tender.
- Rotel Tomatoes (Optional) – A great way to add extra flavor and moisture.
👉 Curious about adding Rotel? Check out our FAQ section at the end to see if it’s the right choice for you!
Tools You’ll Need for Perfect Cornbread
Before you start, gather these kitchen essentials:
- Mixing Bowls – For mixing wet and dry ingredients separately.
- Whisk & Spatula – To mix the batter evenly.
- Cast-Iron Skillet or Baking Dish – For the perfect crispy edges.
- Oven Mitts – Safety first when handling hot dishes!
Pro Tip: Use a Cast-Iron Skillet for the Best Results
Mexican Cornbread tastes best when baked in a cast-iron skillet. It creates a deliciously crispy crust while keeping the inside moist and fluffy. If you don’t have one, a regular baking dish will work too!
Ingredients
Mexican Cornbread Ingredients List
Here’s everything you need to make moist, flavorful Mexican Cornbread:
Dry Ingredients:
- 1 cup yellow cornmeal
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon sugar (optional for a touch of sweetness)
Wet Ingredients:
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 2 large eggs
- ½ cup melted butter
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ cup creamed corn
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1–2 jalapeños, diced (adjust for spice preference)
Optional Add-Ins:
- 1 can Rotel tomatoes (drained)
- ¼ cup chopped cilantro
- ½ cup cooked bacon bits
Ingredient Spotlight: Jalapeños
Fresh jalapeños give the cornbread a mild heat without overpowering the dish. If you prefer less spice, remove the seeds or substitute with green bell peppers.
Did You Know?
Mexican Cornbread is often served with dishes like Taco Spaghetti or Cheesy Chili Mac to create the ultimate comfort meal.
Instructions
How to Make Mexican Cornbread from Scratch
Follow these simple steps to achieve the perfect moist and flavorful Mexican Cornbread.
Step 1: Preheat and Prep
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- If using a cast-iron skillet, place it in the oven while preheating—this helps create a crispy crust.
- Lightly grease a baking dish or cast-iron skillet with butter or cooking spray.
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together:
- Cornmeal, flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and sugar.
- Ensure everything is evenly combined to prevent lumps.
Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients
- In a separate bowl, whisk together:
- Buttermilk, eggs, and melted butter.
- Stir in the creamed corn, shredded cheese, jalapeños, and chopped onions.
Step 4: Mix and Fold
- Gradually add the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients.
- Gently fold until just combined—avoid overmixing, as this can make the cornbread dense.
- If using Rotel tomatoes or bacon bits, fold them in at this stage.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
- Carefully pour the batter into the hot cast-iron skillet or baking dish.
- Smooth out the top with a spatula.
- Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Step 6: Cool and Serve
- Remove from the oven and let it cool for 5–10 minutes before slicing.
- Serve warm with butter, honey, or alongside dishes like Easy Southern Fried Chicken.
Nutrition Score
Is Mexican Cornbread Healthy?
Mexican Cornbread is a hearty and satisfying dish, but its nutritional value depends on ingredients like cheese, butter, and add-ins like bacon. Let’s break down the key nutritional aspects.
Estimated Nutrition Per Serving (Based on 1 slice, approximately 12 servings per batch)
- Calories: ~220 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 26g
- Protein: 6g
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sodium: 400mg
- Sugar: 2g
How to Make It Healthier
If you want to make a lighter version of Mexican Cornbread, try these swaps:
- Use Greek yogurt instead of butter for moisture with less fat.
- Opt for low-fat cheese to reduce calories and saturated fat.
- Swap whole wheat flour for part of the all-purpose flour to boost fiber.
- Reduce sodium by using unsalted butter and limiting added salt.
Balancing Your Meal
Pairing Mexican Cornbread with a protein-rich main dish like Taco Spaghetti or a lighter side like a fresh salad can create a balanced meal.
Serving & Storage
Best Ways to Serve Mexican Cornbread
Mexican Cornbread is versatile and pairs well with many dishes. Whether you’re serving it as a side dish or making it the star of your meal, here are some delicious ways to enjoy it:
Perfect Pairings
- With Tex-Mex Favorites: Serve it alongside Taco Spaghetti for a flavorful twist.
- With Comfort Foods: Try it with Cheesy Chili Mac for the ultimate comfort meal.
- Classic Southern Style: Pair it with crispy Easy Southern Fried Chicken and coleslaw.
- Breakfast Option: Serve warm cornbread with scrambled eggs and avocado for a satisfying morning meal.
How to Store Leftover Cornbread
To keep your Mexican Cornbread fresh, follow these storage tips:
Room Temperature:
- Store in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
- Keep in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.
Refrigerator:
- Wrap tightly in plastic wrap or place in an airtight container.
- Stays fresh for up to 5 days.
Freezer:
- Wrap individual slices in plastic wrap, then place them in a ziplock bag.
- Freeze for up to 3 months.
- To reheat, bake at 350°F (175°C) for 10 minutes or microwave for 30 seconds.
Pro Tip: Reviving Stale Cornbread
If your cornbread has dried out, brush it with a little butter or honey and warm it in the oven for a fresh-out-of-the-oven taste!
Variations
Creative Twists on Mexican Cornbread
Want to switch things up? Try these fun and delicious variations to customize your Mexican Cornbread to your taste!
1. Spicy Mexican Cornbread 🌶️
For those who love extra heat, amp up the spice with these additions:
- Add diced serrano peppers or extra jalapeños.
- Mix in ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper for a fiery kick.
- Top with pepper jack cheese instead of cheddar.
2. Meaty Mexican Cornbread 🍖
Turn your cornbread into a hearty meal by adding protein:
- Stir in ½ cup cooked and crumbled chorizo or bacon.
- Add shredded rotisserie chicken for a Tex-Mex twist.
- Pair with Easy Southern Fried Chicken for a satisfying combo.
3. Cheesy Stuffed Cornbread 🧀
For a melty cheese surprise, try this variation:
- Layer half of the batter in the skillet, then sprinkle a layer of Monterey Jack or queso fresco before adding the rest of the batter.
- Bake as usual for an ooey-gooey cheesy center.
4. Sweet Honey Mexican Cornbread 🍯
Prefer a sweeter twist? Try these modifications:
- Reduce jalapeños and add 2 tablespoons of honey to the batter.
- Stir in ½ cup of sweet corn kernels for extra texture.
- Serve warm with a drizzle of honey butter for a Southern-style treat.
Which Version Will You Try?
Mexican Cornbread is incredibly versatile, so don’t be afraid to experiment! Pair it with comfort foods like Cheesy Chili Mac for a complete meal.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Mexican Style Cornbread?
Mexican-style cornbread is a savory version of traditional cornbread, made with a combination of cornmeal, flour, cheese, and jalapeños for extra flavor and spice. It’s often served with Tex-Mex meals or as a standalone dish. Some variations also include Rotel tomatoes, creamed corn, and bacon to enhance the flavor profile.
What do Mexicans Call Cornbread?
In Mexico, cornbread is often referred to as “pan de maíz,” which translates to corn bread. While corn tortillas are more common in Mexican cuisine, cornbread (especially the Mexican version) is a beloved dish in many regions.
What Goes with Mexican Cornbread?
Mexican Cornbread pairs wonderfully with a variety of Tex-Mex and Southern dishes, including:
- Taco Spaghetti
- Cheesy Chili Mac
- Easy Southern Fried Chicken
- Chili
- Grilled Steak or Shrimp
- Fresh salads or salsas
Can You Put Rotel in Mexican Cornbread?
Yes! Rotel tomatoes (with green chilies) add a delightful juicy texture and an extra layer of flavor. It’s an optional ingredient, but it can make the cornbread even moister and more flavorful. If you choose to use Rotel, be sure to drain the liquid before adding it to the batter.
Conclusion
Mexican Cornbread is a delicious and versatile dish that adds the perfect touch to any meal. Whether you’re enjoying it with your favorite Tex-Mex dishes or making it a star on its own, the combination of cornmeal, cheese, jalapeños, and creamed corn creates a delightful balance of flavors and textures.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick & Easy: Perfect for busy weeknights or weekend gatherings.
- Customizable: Add your favorite ingredients for a personalized twist.
- Crowd-Pleaser: Always a hit at parties, potlucks, or family dinners.
If you’ve never made Mexican Cornbread before, now’s the perfect time to try! It’s a comforting side dish that’s sure to impress, and with a few simple swaps, you can make it fit your dietary preferences.
For more delicious comfort food ideas, check out these related recipes: