Spicy Turkey Bacon Cornbread Recipe with Cheesy Goodness

Comfort meets spice in this mouthwatering turkey bacon and jalapeno cornbread that brings a zesty twist to classic Southern baking.

Crispy bacon bits and fiery peppers dance through golden, tender crumbs, creating an irresistible blend of flavors.

Melted cheese weaves its magic, adding richness to every delectable bite.

The cornbread strikes a perfect balance between creamy, crunchy, and spicy elements that will make your taste buds sing.

Each slice promises a delightful explosion of textures and tastes that elevate the humble cornbread to a gourmet experience.

This recipe transforms a simple side dish into a star attraction that will have everyone asking for seconds.

Prepare to be amazed by how a few bold ingredients can turn an ordinary cornbread into an extraordinary culinary delight.

Why Jalapeño Cornbread Packs a Punch

• Quick and Easy Prep: Whip up this mouthwatering cornbread in just a few simple steps, perfect for busy home cooks who want delicious results without spending hours in the kitchen.
• Flavor Explosion: Packed with savory turkey bacon, spicy jalapenos, and melty cheese, this cornbread delivers an incredible taste experience that will wow your taste buds.
• Versatile Crowd-Pleaser: Great for potlucks, game day, family dinners, or as a side dish that appeals to both kids and adults, making it a fantastic go-to recipe for any occasion.
• One-Pan Dish: Using a cast iron skillet gives the cornbread a crispy golden exterior and eliminates multiple dishes, making cleanup a breeze and cooking more enjoyable.

Ingredients for Cheesy Jalapeño Cornbread

• Cornmeal: A pantry staple with a coarse, golden texture.
• All-Purpose Flour: A key binding ingredient for perfect texture.
• Sugar: Adds a hint of sweetness to the cornbread.
• Baking Powder: Helps the cornbread rise and become fluffy.

• Eggs: Provides structure and richness to the cornbread.
• Milk: Adds moisture and helps blend the ingredients.
• Vegetable Oil: Creates a tender and soft crumb.

• Cheddar Cheese, Pepper Jack Cheese: Melty and flavorful cheese options.
• Turkey Bacon: Crispy and smoky protein addition.
• Corn Kernels, Jalapenos: Fresh and spicy vegetable mix-ins.

• Butter, Salt, Black Pepper: Classic seasoning for enhanced flavor.

How to Make Turkey Bacon Cornbread

Step 1: Warm Up the Oven

Crank the oven to a sizzling 425°F.

Grab a cast iron skillet and dot some butter around its inside.

If you’re using a regular baking pan, just give it a quick grease to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Prep the Skillet

Slide the skillet into the oven so the butter can melt and get all bubbly and golden.

Step 3: Mix the Magic Base

• Cornmeal
• Eggs
• Milk
• Vegetable oil
• Shredded cheese
• Sugar
• Crispy turkey bacon bits
• Sweet corn kernels
• Chopped jalapenos

Whisk everything together until it’s well combined and looks like a party in a bowl.

Step 4: Create the Golden Masterpiece

Pull the sizzling skillet out of the oven.

Pour your cornbread mixture evenly into the buttery pan, making sure it spreads out nicely.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Slide the skillet back into the oven and let it bake for 25-30 minutes.

You’re looking for a beautiful golden-brown top and a firm center.

Step 6: Cool and Serve

Once it’s done, pull the cornbread out and let it rest for about 5 minutes.

This helps it set and makes cutting easier.

Slice, serve, and watch everyone dive in!

Tips for Moist Cornbread with a Kick

• Preheat the cast iron skillet with butter for a crispy, golden-brown crust that adds delicious flavor and prevents sticking.
• Adjust jalapeno quantity based on personal heat preference, removing seeds for milder taste or adding more for extra kick.
• Experiment with different cheese types like sharp cheddar, pepper jack, or monterey jack to customize flavor profile.
• Insert a toothpick in the center of cornbread; if it comes out clean, the bread is fully baked and ready to serve.
• Wrap leftover cornbread in foil and store at room temperature for 2-3 days, reheating in oven to maintain crispy texture.

How to Store Cornbread with Jalapeños

• Store leftover cornbread in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator. Wrap tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil to prevent drying out.
• Slice cornbread and place individual pieces between parchment paper. Seal in a freezer-safe bag, removing as much air as possible. Freeze for up to 2 months.
• Warm slices at 350°F for 10-15 minutes, covering with foil to prevent excessive browning. This method restores moisture and maintains texture.
• Reheat individual slices for 15-20 seconds, adding a small pat of butter on top to enhance moisture and flavor. Avoid overheating to prevent toughness.

Serving Ideas for Spicy Cornbread

• Spice Up Your Senses: Pair this zesty cornbread with complementary flavors that enhance its bold personality.
• Sip and Savor Barbecue Companion: Grab a cold, hoppy IPA or crisp amber ale to cut through the cornbread's richness and match its spicy kick.
• Comfort on a Plate: Create a hearty meal by serving alongside smoky pulled pork or tangy chili, which will highlight the cornbread's complex flavor profile.
• Southern-Style Sidekick: Complement with a fresh, cooling coleslaw or bright pickled vegetables to balance the bread's heat and creamy cheese notes.

Mix-Ins for Cornbread Recipes

• Gluten-Free Cornbread: Replace wheat-based cornmeal with gluten-free cornmeal and use almond flour for added texture. Swap regular milk with unsweetened almond milk for a dairy-free alternative.
• Low-Sodium Version: Use turkey bacon with no added salt, reduce cheese quantity, and replace jalapeños with mild green chiles. Eliminate added salt to cut sodium content.
• Vegetarian Adaptation: Substitute turkey bacon with smoky tempeh strips or plant-based bacon. Add extra cheese or nutritional yeast for umami flavor and protein boost.
• Keto-Friendly Option: Use almond flour instead of cornmeal, replace sugar with erythritol, and increase cheese and bacon amounts. Add cream cheese for extra richness and low-carb profile.

FAQs

• Can I use regular bacon instead of turkey bacon?

Yes, you can easily substitute regular bacon for turkey bacon. The swap will add a richer, slightly saltier flavor to the cornbread.

• How spicy will this cornbread be with jalapenos?

The jalapenos provide a moderate heat level. If you prefer less spice, remove the seeds and membranes before chopping. For more heat, keep the seeds intact.

• Is this recipe suitable for gluten-sensitive people?

The current recipe contains traditional ingredients that include gluten. To make it gluten-free, you’ll need to use gluten-free cornmeal and ensure all other ingredients are gluten-free certified.

• Can I make this cornbread ahead of time?

Absolutely! This cornbread can be prepared in advance and stored at room temperature for 1-2 days. Reheat in the oven for a few minutes to restore its fresh-baked texture and warmth.

Cheesy, Turkey Bacon, And Jalapeno Cornbread Recipe

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4.6 from 8 reviews

• Total Time: 50 minutes
• Yield: 12 1x

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Description

Savor southern comfort with this cheesy, turkey bacon, and jalapeno cornbread that blends spicy heat and hearty flavors. Creamy cheese, smoky turkey bacon, and zesty jalapeños create a mouthwatering side dish you’ll crave at every meal.

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Ingredients

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Main Ingredients:

• 3 cups cornmeal
• 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 6 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
• 1 can (8.25 ounces / 233 grams) creamed corn

Liquid and Binding Ingredients:

• 3 eggs
• 2 1/2 cups milk
• 1/2 cup oil

Additional Flavor Ingredients:

• 2 tablespoons sugar
• 1 can (4 ounces / 113 grams) diced jalapenos

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Instructions

1. Prepare a cast iron skillet or baking pan by generously coating the interior with butter, then preheat the oven to a searing 425°F.
2. Position the skillet in the hot oven, allowing the butter to melt and create a sizzling base that will enhance the cornbread’s crispy exterior.
3. In a spacious mixing bowl, whisk together the dry and wet ingredients, folding in the shredded cheese, crispy turkey bacon bits, vibrant corn kernels, and fiery diced jalapenos until a harmonious batter forms.
4. Carefully extract the scorching skillet from the oven, ensuring the melted butter coats the entire surface, then pour the prepared mixture evenly across the pan.
5. Return the skillet to the oven and bake for approximately 25-30 minutes, watching for a golden-brown crust and a slightly firm center that signals perfect doneness.
6. Once baked, remove the cornbread from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes, allowing the internal moisture to stabilize and the flavors to settle.
7. Slice the cornbread into wedges or squares, serving while still warm to enjoy the optimal blend of cheesy, spicy, and savory elements.

Notes

• Adjust the jalapeño quantity based on your spice tolerance, ensuring a personalized heat level that suits your palate.
• Use freshly grated cheese for maximum flavor and better melting properties compared to pre-shredded options.
• Consider swapping turkey bacon with regular bacon or vegetarian bacon alternatives to accommodate different dietary preferences.
• Allow the cornbread to rest briefly after baking, which helps set the texture and makes slicing easier without crumbling.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30-35 minutes
• Category: Breakfast, Snacks
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 12
• Calories: 250
• Sugar: 2 g
• Sodium: 400 mg
• Fat: 12 g
• Saturated Fat: 4 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 30 g
• Fiber: 2 g
• Protein: 9 g
• Cholesterol: 50 mg