ADVERTISEMENT
### Instructions:
#### Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Start by preheating your oven to **375°F (190°C)**. This is the perfect temperature to bake the cornbread to a golden brown with a slightly crispy exterior.
#### Step 2: Prepare the Batter
1. **Mix Wet Ingredients**: In a large mixing bowl, combine the **sour cream**, **creamed corn**, **eggs**, and **vegetable oil**. Stir these ingredients together until well combined.
2. **Add Dry Ingredients**: Next, add the **cornbread mix**, **baking powder**, **sugar**, **chili powder**, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Stir until just combined—be careful not to overmix, as this can affect the texture of the cornbread.
3. **Incorporate Cheese and Chilies**: Gently fold in the **shredded cheese** and **green chilies**. This is where the magic happens—cheese and chilies give the cornbread its signature flavor, making it moist and spicy.
#### Step 3: Bake the Cornbread
1. **Prepare the Pan**: Grease a 9×9-inch baking dish or cast-iron skillet with butter or non-stick spray. Alternatively, you can line the pan with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
2. **Pour the Batter**: Pour the batter into the prepared pan, spreading it evenly to ensure it cooks evenly.
3. **Bake**: Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for about **25-30 minutes**, or until the top is golden and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
#### Step 4: Serve and Enjoy!
1. **Cool Slightly**: Let the Mexican cornbread cool for a few minutes before slicing it into squares.
2. **Serve**: Serve the cornbread warm with a dollop of butter, a drizzle of honey, or alongside your favorite chili or stew. It’s also great as a side for tacos, barbecue, or roasted meats.
### Tips for Perfect Mexican Cornbread:
– **Spice it Up**: If you love extra heat, you can add more chili powder or a diced jalapeño to the batter. You can also experiment with different types of cheese—try adding a bit of pepper jack for more spice.
– **Use Fresh or Frozen Corn**: For an added layer of texture, you can use fresh or frozen corn kernels instead of or in addition to the creamed corn. This will give your cornbread a slightly different texture and burst of flavor.
– **Make it Gluten-Free**: To make this recipe gluten-free, simply swap the regular cornbread mix for a gluten-free version or use cornmeal with a gluten-free flour blend.
– **Add Herbs**: For extra flavor, you can incorporate fresh herbs like cilantro or green onions into the batter before baking.
### Why Mexican Cornbread is Perfect for Every Occasion:
– **Great for Gatherings**: Whether you’re hosting a dinner party, family meal, or potluck, this cornbread is a great addition to any spread. It pairs beautifully with hearty dishes like chili, barbecue, or even grilled meats.
– **Meal Prep Friendly**: Mexican cornbread keeps well for several days when stored in an airtight container. You can easily make it ahead of time and reheat individual servings when you’re ready to enjoy.
– **Kid-Friendly**: With its mild spice and cheesy goodness, this cornbread is likely to be a hit with both kids and adults. You can adjust the spice level to suit younger taste buds if necessary.
### Nutritional Benefits of Cornbread:
Cornbread can be a relatively nutritious side dish, especially when made with whole grains and healthy ingredients like sour cream and creamed corn. Here are some benefits:
– **Rich in Fiber**: Cornmeal is a good source of dietary fiber, which supports healthy digestion and helps you feel full longer.
– **Packed with Nutrients**: Corn is high in antioxidants, vitamin A, and B vitamins, which support immune health and energy production.
– **High in Calcium**: The addition of cheese boosts the calcium content, which is important for bone health.
### Final Thoughts:
**Mexican Cornbread** is a deliciously spiced twist on a classic favorite. With the perfect balance of sweet and savory, it’s the ideal accompaniment to many meals. Whether you’re enjoying it with a hearty bowl of chili or serving it as a standalone snack, this cornbread will surely become a staple in your kitchen. It’s simple to make, customizable to your tastes, and guaranteed to satisfy. Give it a try today and watch it quickly become a family favorite!
