Name: Navajo Cornbread
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: PT-485658H55M31S
Total time: 1 h 15 min
Cuisine: Southwestern
Ingredients: 1 ½ cups plain yellow cornmeal; ½ cup all-purpose flour; 1 tablespoon baking powder; 2 teaspoons salt; 2 large eggs; 1 (14 oz) can creamed corn; ½ cup sour cream; 1 cup milk or buttermilk; ⅓ cup vegetable oil; 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely diced; 1 bunch green onions, chopped (about 1 cup); 8 oz Colby Jack cheese, shredded

Navajo Cornbread is a hearty, savory twist on classic cornbread, packed with jalapeños, green onions, creamed corn, and Colby Jack cheese. It’s rich, moist, and flavorful—perfect as a side dish or even a standalone meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love how this recipe transforms simple pantry staples into a deeply satisfying dish. The combination of creamed corn and sour cream keeps it incredibly moist, while the jalapeños and green onions add a subtle kick. It’s a crowd-pleaser at potlucks and pairs beautifully with chili, soups, or even a fresh salad.

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

1 ½ cups plain yellow cornmeal
½ cup all-purpose flour
1 tablespoon baking powder
2 teaspoons salt
2 large eggs
1 (14 oz) can creamed corn
½ cup sour cream
1 cup milk or buttermilk
⅓ cup vegetable oil
1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely diced
1 bunch green onions, chopped (about 1 cup)
8 oz Colby Jack cheese, shredded

Directions

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 13×9-inch baking dish or a 12-inch cast-iron skillet with cooking spray or oil.
In a large bowl, whisk together the cornmeal, flour, baking powder, and salt.
In another bowl, beat the eggs, then mix in the creamed corn, sour cream, milk, and vegetable oil until well combined.
Stir the wet ingredients into the dry mixture until just combined. Fold in the diced jalapeño, chopped green onions, and shredded cheese.
Pour the batter into the prepared pan and spread it evenly.
Bake for 55–70 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the center is set. If using a cast-iron skillet, start checking at 55 minutes.
Let the cornbread rest in the pan for 15 minutes before slicing and serving.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 18
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 55–70 minutes
Total Time: Approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes

Variations

Spicy Kick: I like to leave some jalapeño seeds in for extra heat.
Cheesy Delight: Swap Colby Jack with sharp cheddar or pepper jack for a different flavor profile.
Meaty Addition: Adding cooked seasoned ground beef turns this into a hearty main dish.
Muffin Style: Pour the batter into muffin tins and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 20–25 minutes for individual servings.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: I store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerate for up to 5 days.
Freezing: Wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap and foil, then freeze for up to 3 months.
Reheating: To reheat, I warm slices in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 10 minutes or microwave for 20–30 seconds until heated through.

FAQs

What makes this cornbread “Navajo”?

While the name suggests a Native American origin, this recipe is more of a tribute to Southwestern flavors. It incorporates ingredients like jalapeños and creamed corn, which are common in the region’s cuisine.

Can I make this cornbread gluten-free?

Yes, I substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Ensure that the cornmeal and other ingredients are certified gluten-free as well.

How can I make this cornbread sweeter?

If I prefer a sweeter cornbread, I add 1–2 tablespoons of sugar or honey to the batter. This complements the savory elements nicely.

Can I use fresh corn instead of creamed corn?

Absolutely. I use about 1 cup of fresh corn kernels and add an extra ¼ cup of sour cream or milk to maintain the moisture level.

What’s the best way to serve this cornbread?

I enjoy serving it warm with a pat of butter alongside chili, soups, or stews. It’s also delicious on its own as a snack or breakfast item.

Conclusion

Navajo Cornbread is a flavorful and versatile dish that brings warmth and comfort to any meal. Its moist texture and savory ingredients make it a standout side or a satisfying main course. Whether I’m hosting a gathering or enjoying a quiet dinner, this cornbread never fails to impress.