Cheesy Navajo Cornbread Recipe

Looking for a comforting and flavorful addition to your table? Look no further than Navajo Cornbread With Cheddar. This recipe takes the classic cornbread to a whole new level by incorporating the richness of sharp cheddar cheese, the sweetness of cream-style corn, and the subtle kick of diced green chiles. It’s a perfect blend of savory and cozy that will have your family reaching for seconds.

The magic of Navajo cornbread lies in its ability to bring together a medley of flavors that appeal to every palate. Imagine a tender crumb speckled with gooey pockets of melted cheddar, savory bites of bell pepper and onion, all baked to golden perfection. This bake is not only a crowd-pleaser for weeknight dinners but also a showstopper side dish that will elevate any gathering. So, whether you’re serving it alongside a steaming bowl of chili or enjoying it with a dollop of honey for breakfast, this cornbread is sure to hit the spot.

With its roots in Native American culinary traditions and a nod to Southwestern flavors, Navajo cornbread is a celebration of corn as a staple ingredient. Baking it in a preheated cast iron skillet adds a delightful crust, while the option to customize with different cheeses or seasonal vegetables makes it a versatile favorite all year round. So, whip up a batch of this Navajo Cornbread With Cheddar, and watch it disappear from your table, leaving behind nothing but smiles and satisfied bellies.

Quick Benefits

• Features cream-style corn and cheddar cheese for moistness and richness, with bright flavors from sautéed vegetables.
• Preheating a cast iron skillet creates a sizzling crust and traditional texture; adjust bake time slightly for faster results.
• Cream-style corn adds sweetness and moisture, but you may substitute with whole corn and a splash of milk in a pinch.
• Can be easily adapted for dairy sensitivities by using dairy-free milk, skipping the cheese, or opting for a plant-based alternative.

Why You’ll Love This Cheesy Navajo Cornbread Recipe Recipe

• Moist and Flavorful: The cream-style corn and cheddar cheese in this cornbread keep it moist and rich in every bite.
• Versatile: You can easily customize this recipe by adding ingredients like diced green chiles for a kick or roasted red peppers for a different twist.
• Satisfying Comfort Food: Perfect for cozy nights in, gatherings, or as a side for soups and stews, this cornbread is sure to warm your heart and fill your belly.
• Family-Friendly: Loved by kids and adults alike, this cornbread recipe is a hit with everyone, especially with the gooey cheese edges that everyone fights over.
• Make-Ahead and Freezer Friendly: You can prepare this cornbread in advance, freeze it for up to two months, and have a delicious treat ready whenever you need it.
• Easy to Adapt: Whether you’re dairy-free, gluten-free, or vegan, this recipe can be easily adjusted to suit your dietary needs while still maintaining its delicious texture and flavor.
• Traditional and Nostalgic: Drawing on native culinary traditions and baked in a cast iron skillet, this cornbread brings a touch of history and tradition to your table.
• Endless Flavor Possibilities: With suggestions for seasonal variations and ingredient swaps, you can experiment with different flavors and ingredients to keep this recipe fresh and exciting.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Whether it’s for potlucks, family dinners, or breakfast, this cornbread is a dish that will have everyone coming back for seconds and asking for the recipe.

Ingredients for Cheesy Navajo Cornbread Recipe

Dry Ingredients

• 1 tablespoon aluminum-free baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1 cup unbleached all-purpose flour
• 1 cup yellow stone-ground cornmeal

Wet Ingredients

• 2 large eggs, room temperature
• 1 cup whole milk
• 1/4 cup vegetable oil
• 1 cup canned cream-style corn

Cheese and Vegetables

• 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 1 small onion, finely chopped (about 1/2 cup)
• 1 can (4 oz) diced green chiles, drained (optional)
• 1 small green bell pepper, diced (about 1/2 cup)

Pro Tips for Cheesy Navajo Cornbread Recipe

For optimal results, preheat your cast iron skillet before pouring the batter in. This step creates a crispy crust and traditional texture, making each bite more enjoyable. Adjust the baking time slightly if using a preheated skillet for faster results.

Cream-style corn adds both sweetness and moisture to the cornbread. However, if you don’t have it on hand, whole corn can be substituted with a splash of milk for a similar effect. This simple swap allows you to still achieve a moist and flavorful cornbread even without cream-style corn.

To customize the level of heat in your cornbread, consider adding diced green chiles for a subtle kick. If you prefer a spicier version, incorporate a pinch of cayenne pepper or finely diced jalapeños into the batter. These additions can elevate the flavor profile and cater to various spice preferences.

How to Make Cheesy Navajo Cornbread Recipe

Step 1: Preheat the Oven and Prepare Baking Dish

Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C), or 375°F for a glass dish. Grease a 9×9-inch square baking pan or a 10-inch cast iron skillet. To use a traditional method, preheat the cast iron skillet in the oven while preheating.

Step 2: Prepare the Vegetables

Cut the green bell pepper and onion into 1/4-inch pieces. You may choose to sauté them in 1 teaspoon of oil for 2 to 3 minutes until slightly softened, then let them cool. Drain the green chiles well to remove excess moisture.

Step 3: Mix the Dry Ingredients

Combine cornmeal, flour, baking powder, and kosher salt in a large mixing bowl, whisk until fully mixed.

Step 4: Combine the Wet Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk eggs until frothy. Add milk and vegetable oil, whisk until fully blended. Gently fold in cream-style corn with a rubber spatula, keeping some texture.

Step 5: Form the Batter

Combine wet ingredients with dry ingredients, stirring gently with a wooden spoon or spatula until no dry streaks remain (about 10-15 strokes). Mixture will be slightly lumpy. Gently fold in shredded cheddar, bell pepper, onion, and green chiles.

Step 6: Bake

Spread the batter in the prepared baking dish or skillet. Bake for 25 to 30 minutes until the top is golden and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out mostly clean. Check at 23 minutes if using a preheated cast iron skillet.

Step 7: Cool and Serve

Allow the cornbread to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before slicing into squares or wedges. Serve warm, making sure each portion shows layers of vegetables and melted cheese.

Storage Tips

Once the Navajo cornbread with cheddar has cooled completely, store it tightly covered on the counter for up to two days for optimal freshness. If you have leftovers that you want to keep longer, slice the cornbread, wrap the pieces individually in plastic, and refrigerate them. The cornbread can be stored in the refrigerator for up to five days. To reheat, simply place the slices in the oven at 300 degrees until they are heated through.

For longer-term storage, you can freeze the cornbread by wrapping individual squares in foil and placing them in a freezer bag. The cornbread can be stored in the freezer for up to two months. Thaw the frozen cornbread overnight in the refrigerator or reheat it straight from the freezer in a low oven. This delicious Navajo cornbread is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed as a side for various meals or even as a quick and comforting snack.

Ingredient Substitutions

For a dairy-free version of this Navajo cornbread, you can easily swap the whole milk with unsweetened almond milk and use your favorite dairy-free cheese as a substitute for the cheddar. Pepper jack cheese can be a great alternative to cheddar if you prefer a bit of heat, while Monterey Jack cheese can provide a milder flavor profile.

If you don’t have cream-style corn on hand, you can substitute it with whole corn kernels and increase the milk quantity slightly for added moisture. Additionally, you can add a tablespoon of extra milk to maintain the desired texture in the cornbread.

To enhance the flavor profile, consider experimenting with additional ingredients like roasted red peppers, scallions, or frozen roasted corn. These variations can add depth and sweetness to the cornbread, making it a versatile dish for different seasons.

Serving Suggestions

For a creative serving suggestion, try cutting the Navajo cornbread into small cubes and using them as a base for bite-sized appetizers. Top each cube with a dollop of sour cream, a slice of pickled jalapeño, and a sprinkle of fresh cilantro for a festive and flavorful appetizer that will disappear quickly at your next gathering.

Another fun idea is to slice the Navajo cornbread into thick slices and use them as the “bread” in a Southwestern-inspired grilled cheese sandwich. Layer slices of pepper jack cheese, roasted red peppers, and thinly sliced avocado between two slices of cornbread and grill until golden and crispy. Serve with a side of salsa or chipotle aioli for a delicious twist on a classic comfort food favorite.

FAQs for Cheesy Navajo Cornbread Recipe

Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

Yes, you can make this recipe dairy-free by using unsweetened almond milk and your favorite dairy-free cheese alternative.

Why is preheating a cast iron skillet important for this recipe?

Preheating a cast iron skillet helps create a sizzling crust and traditional texture for the cornbread. You may need to adjust the bake time slightly for faster results.

Can I substitute cream-style corn with whole corn?

Yes, you can substitute cream-style corn with whole corn and add a splash of milk in a pinch for moisture. This substitution will slightly alter the texture and sweetness of the cornbread.

How can I increase the heat level of the cornbread?

You can increase the heat level of the cornbread by including diced green chiles for subtle heat, or by adding a pinch of cayenne or finely diced jalapeños to the batter for a spicier kick.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Navajo Cornbread With Cheddar is a delightful dish that brings together the heartwarming flavors of corn, cheese, and savory vegetables in every bite. Whether you’re serving it for a cozy weeknight dinner or as a standout side at a gathering, this recipe is sure to impress.

Don’t be afraid to get creative with this versatile cornbread recipe. From adding your favorite seasonal ingredients to making dairy-free or gluten-free swaps, Navajo Cornbread With Cheddar can easily be customized to suit your preferences and dietary needs. So go ahead, experiment in the kitchen and enjoy the delicious results of this comforting and flavorful cornbread.