Spicy Jalapeño Corn Pudding is the perfect fusion of sweet corn and spicy jalapeños, creating a comforting and flavorful dish. This recipe is ideal for adding some zest to your holiday spread or just spicing up a weeknight dinner with its creamy yet slightly fiery profile.
The foundation of this dish is unsalted butter, which adds richness without overpowering the other flavors. Yellow cornmeal gives the pudding its signature texture and a subtle corn flavor. The combination of whole milk and heavy cream ensures a creamy consistency, while the granulated sugar provides a slight sweetness to balance the heat. Baking powder is the leavening agent that gives the pudding its lift, and a touch of salt enhances all the flavors. Eggs bind everything together, while fresh corn kernels add bursts of sweetness. The stars of the show, jalapeños, bring the heat, and sharp cheddar cheese contributes a savory, cheesy finish.
This spicy jalapeño corn pudding pairs beautifully with grilled meats like steak or chicken. Consider serving it alongside a fresh green salad to balance the richness. It also complements other traditional holiday sides, making it a versatile addition to any festive table.
First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9-inch baking dish. This way, you’re set up for a smooth transition when your mixture is ready. In a large mixing bowl, combine the yellow cornmeal, whole milk, heavy cream, and granulated sugar. Stir them together until they’re well mixed. It might seem a bit runny at first, but that's totally normal.
Next, add the baking powder and salt to the mixture. Blend thoroughly until everything is nicely incorporated. In a separate bowl, beat the eggs and then add them to the cornmeal mixture, stirring constantly. This helps in evenly distributing the eggs, which are crucial for binding the pudding.
Once the mixture is smooth, fold in the fresh corn kernels, finely chopped jalapeños, and half of the shredded cheddar cheese. Pour this delightful mix into your prepared baking dish. Sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese over the top for that irresistible cheesy crust.
Place the dish in your preheated oven and bake for 45-50 minutes. You'll know it's done when the top is golden brown and the center is set. Once baked, let it cool for about 10 minutes before serving. This cooling time allows the pudding to firm up slightly, making it easier to slice and serve.
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