Navajo Cornbread
Hearty, moist, and packed with green chiles and cheese for a flavorful Southwestern twist!
Looking to spice up your cornbread game? This Navajo Cornbread combines the classic cornbread texture with the bold flavors of green chiles, cheddar cheese, and creamy corn. It’s the perfect side dish for chili, BBQ, or any Southwestern-inspired meal. The result? A soft, moist cornbread with a little kick—plus a melty cheese surprise in every bite.
What You’ll Need (Serves 8)
Main Ingredients:
1 cup yellow cornmeal
1 cup all-purpose flour
1 tablespoon baking powder
½ teaspoon baking soda
½ teaspoon salt
2 tablespoons sugar (optional, for a slightly sweet cornbread)
2 large eggs
1 cup buttermilk
¼ cup vegetable oil or melted butter
1 (8 oz) can creamed corn
1 (4 oz) can diced green chiles (mild or hot, drained)
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Navajo Cornbread Step-by-Step Instructions
1️⃣ Preheat and Prep:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9-inch cast iron skillet or a baking dish for the perfect crispy edges.
2️⃣ Mix the Dry Ingredients:
In a large bowl, whisk together the cornmeal, flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and sugar (if using).
3️⃣ Combine the Wet Ingredients:
In a separate bowl, beat the eggs, then whisk in the buttermilk and vegetable oil (or melted butter).
4️⃣ Combine Wet and Dry:
Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. Be careful not to overmix—it should be a little lumpy!
5️⃣ Add the Fun Ingredients:
Fold in the creamed corn, diced green chiles, and shredded cheddar cheese. These ingredients add moisture and flavor that makes this cornbread stand out.
6️⃣ Bake:
Pour the batter into the prepared skillet or baking dish and smooth the top. Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until the top is golden and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
7️⃣ Cool and Serve:
Let the cornbread cool slightly before slicing and serving. It’s best enjoyed warm with a dollop of butter or alongside your favorite Southwestern dishes!
Pro Tips for the Best Navajo Cornbread:
For extra moisture: Use full-fat buttermilk for a richer, creamier texture.
Spice it up: If you like heat, opt for hot diced green chiles or add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the batter.
Use a cast iron skillet: For those irresistible, crispy edges, a well-seasoned cast iron skillet is ideal.
Add a crunch: Toss in some corn kernels for an extra texture boost.
Why You’ll Love Navajo Cornbread:
Perfectly Moist & Fluffy: No dry cornbread here—just soft and flavorful with a little kick.
Flavor-Packed: The combination of creamy corn, zesty green chiles, and gooey cheese makes every bite irresistible.
Great for Any Meal: Serve it with chili, soups, grilled meats, or on its own for a savory snack.
Nutritional Information (Per serving, approx.)
Calories: 285
Protein: 7g
Carbs: 32g
Fat: 15g
Sugar: 3g
FAQ About Navajo Cornbread:
Can I make this ahead?
Yes! You can prep the batter and refrigerate it for up to a day. Just bake it when you’re ready to serve.
Can I make it without buttermilk?
You can substitute buttermilk with regular milk and a tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice to mimic the tangy flavor.
How do I store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, or refrigerate for up to 5 days.
Common Problems and Fixes:
Cornbread too dry?
Check your baking time—don’t overbake! For extra moisture, you can add a bit more creamed corn or oil.
Not fluffy enough?
Make sure your baking powder and baking soda are fresh and active for a light, airy texture.
Flavor Variations You Can Try:
Cheddar-Jalapeño: Add diced jalapeños and extra cheddar for a spicy, cheesy twist.
Sweet Version: Skip the green chiles and add a tablespoon of honey to the batter for a sweet cornbread.
Corn and Bacon: Add crispy bacon bits and corn kernels for a hearty, savory update.
Perfect for Every Occasion:
Navajo Cornbread is a great side dish for any Southwestern-inspired meal, from chili and stews to BBQ and grilled meats. Its warmth, flavor, and moist texture make it a crowd-pleaser at any gathering.
A Southwestern Twist on Classic Cornbread:
This Navajo Cornbread is everything you love about traditional cornbread, with the added flair of green chiles and melted cheese. It’s a comforting, flavorful side dish that will quickly become a favorite in your kitchen.
Made this recipe? Tag us with your cornbread creations! We’d love to see how you enjoy this Southwestern twist on cornbread!