Green Chile Cheese Bread: A Cheesy, Spicy Twist on Classic Cornbread 🌶🧀🍞
Introduction
If you love cornbread but want to take it to the next level, this Green Chile Cheese Bread is a must-try! Packed with sweet corn, creamy cheese, and a kick of roasted green chiles, this dish combines the comfort of traditional cornbread with bold Southwestern flavors.
Baked in a cast-iron skillet for that signature crispy crust, it’s hearty, cheesy, and just the right amount of spicy. Perfect as a side for chili, soups, or BBQ—or enjoy it warm as a stand-alone snack that’s impossible to resist.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Cheesy & comforting – Cream cheese, cheddar, and Monterey Jack make this bread rich and indulgent.
- Spicy kick – Green chiles and chili flakes add just the right amount of heat.
- Versatile – Serve it with stews, grilled meats, or even breakfast dishes.
- Crowd-pleaser – Perfect for potlucks, holidays, or family dinners.
Ingredients
- 1 cup canned or thawed corn kernels
- ½ cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
- ½ cup sharp cheddar cheese
- ½ cup chopped green chilies
- ⅓ block (about 3 oz) cream cheese, softened
- Garlic salt, black pepper, and red chili flakes, to taste
- 1 package cornbread mix
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preheat the Oven & Skillet
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (218°C).
- Place a cast-iron skillet inside while the oven heats. This ensures a crispy, golden crust.
2. Prepare the Cornbread Batter
- Follow the package directions for the cornbread mix.
- Stir in the Monterey Jack cheese for an extra cheesy touch.
3. Make the Flavorful Filling
- In a medium bowl, combine:
- Corn kernels
- Chopped green chiles
- Sharp cheddar cheese
- Cream cheese
- Season with garlic salt, black pepper, and red chili flakes to taste.
4. Assemble the Bread
- Carefully remove the hot skillet from the oven (handle with oven mitts!).
- Pour half of the cornbread batter into the skillet and spread evenly.
- Spoon the corn and cheese filling over the batter.
- Top with the remaining batter, spreading gently to cover the filling.
5. Bake to Perfection
- Return the skillet to the oven and bake for 20–25 minutes, until golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
6. Serve & Enjoy!
- Let the bread cool slightly before slicing.
- Serve warm with chili, stews, scrambled eggs, or enjoy as a cheesy snack!
Expert Tips & Variations
- Extra Heat – Add diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper.
- Make it Creamier – Swirl more cream cheese into the filling.
- Fresh Corn Upgrade – Use grilled or roasted corn for smoky flavor.
- Add Protein – Mix in cooked bacon or chorizo for a hearty twist.
Nutritional Information (per slice, approx. 1/8 of skillet)
- Calories: 260
- Protein: 8g
- Fat: 14g
- Carbs: 25g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sodium: 470mg
(Values may vary based on cornbread mix and cheese brands used.)
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use fresh green chiles instead of canned?
Yes! Roast, peel, and chop fresh green chiles for even more flavor.
2. Can I bake this without a cast-iron skillet?
Absolutely—use a greased baking dish, though the crust won’t be as crispy.
3. How do I store leftovers?
Wrap tightly and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for best texture.
4. Can this be made ahead?
Yes, you can assemble the batter and filling separately ahead of time, then bake just before serving.