If you love the rich, tangy punch of sharp cheddar combined with the smoky warmth of green chiles, then you are going to fall head over heels for this Green Chile Cheese Bread Recipe. It’s a wonderfully moist, cheesy loaf that’s packed with just the right heat and flavor to make any meal instantly more exciting. Whether you’re serving it as a snack, alongside soup, or as a savory treat for a brunch gathering, this bread feels like a warm hug with every bite. Trust me, once you try this, it’ll become your go-to for a quick homemade bread that bursts with southwestern flair.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Green Chile Cheese Bread Recipe calls for simple, everyday ingredients, but each one plays a crucial role in building its signature texture, cheesy goodness, and that subtle kick of spice. You’ll appreciate how easy it is to pull together, turning pantry staples into something totally crave-worthy.
- 2 cups all-purpose flour: The perfect base that creates a soft yet sturdy structure for the bread.
- 1 tablespoon baking powder: Ensures the bread rises beautifully and stays light.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors without overpowering the cheese or chiles.
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder: Adds a gentle savory depth that complements the cheese nicely.
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese: Brings bold, tangy flavor and that gooey, melty essence we all love.
- 1/2 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese: Offers a creamy smoothness that balances the sharp cheddar.
- 1 (4 oz) can diced green chiles, drained: Provides just the right smoky heat and moisture.
- 1/2 cup chopped roasted green chiles (optional for extra heat): For those who want to dial up the spice and complexity.
- 2 large eggs: Help bind everything together and create a moist crumb.
- 3/4 cup milk: Keeps the batter tender and smooth, enhancing the bread’s softness.
- 1/3 cup vegetable oil or melted butter: Adds richness and a subtle buttery flavor that’s irresistible.
How to Make Green Chile Cheese Bread Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Pan
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan or line it with parchment paper to ensure the bread releases easily after baking. Setting this up first means you’re ready to go as soon as the batter is mixed up.
Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, salt, and garlic powder. This step makes sure all your dry ingredients are evenly combined, giving you an even rise and consistent flavor throughout your bread.
Step 3: Add the Cheeses and Chiles
Next, stir in the sharp cheddar, Monterey Jack, and both types of green chiles. These ingredients add fantastic texture and that vibrant southwest taste, so mix gently to distribute them without flattening.
Step 4: Whisk the Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk the eggs, milk, and your choice of vegetable oil or melted butter together until smooth. Combining these ingredients separately helps ensure the bread bakes up tender and moist.
Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry
Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients and stir just until combined. Resist the urge to overmix because a few lumps here and there will keep your bread light and fluffy.
Step 6: Transfer to Loaf Pan
Pour the batter into your prepared loaf pan and smooth the top gently with a spatula to even it out. This will help the bread bake evenly with a lovely golden crust.
Step 7: Bake to Perfection
Bake for 40 to 50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean and the top is a gorgeous golden brown. The aroma at this point will be irresistible.
Step 8: Cool and Serve
Let your Green Chile Cheese Bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely or to serve warm. This brief rest lets the texture set perfectly, making slicing easier and cleaner.
How to Serve Green Chile Cheese Bread Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of fresh chopped cilantro or a light drizzle of honey butter can elevate your bread even more. These simple touches add freshness and a gentle sweetness that complements the savory heat beautifully.
Side Dishes
This bread pairs incredibly well with robust soups like tomato bisque or black bean chili and even with green salads dressed in tangy vinaigrettes. It can also stand on its own as a snack with a bit of cream cheese or your favorite spread.
Creative Ways to Present
Cut the bread into cubes and serve as part of a party platter with a variety of dips like guacamole, salsa, or a creamy queso. You can also turn slices into sandwich bases with grilled meats or roasted veggies for a southwestern twist.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled completely, wrap your bread tightly in plastic wrap or store in an airtight container and keep it at room temperature for up to three days. This keeps the bread soft and flavorful, perfect for slicing later.
Freezing
For longer storage, wrap the loaf well in cling film and then in aluminum foil before freezing. It will keep well for up to two months and can be thawed overnight in the fridge when you’re ready to enjoy it again.
Reheating
Reheat slices in a warm oven at 300°F for about 10 minutes or toast them lightly before serving. This refreshes the bread’s texture and revives the wonderful cheesy aroma that makes this Green Chile Cheese Bread Recipe so special.
FAQs
Can I use fresh green chiles instead of canned?
Absolutely! Roasted and chopped fresh green chiles can bring even more flavor and heat. Just be sure to remove the seeds if you want to keep it mild, or leave some in for extra spice.
Is it possible to make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, by substituting the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free baking blend that includes xanthan gum, you can enjoy this bread gluten-free while maintaining good texture.
Can I add other types of cheese?
Feel free to experiment! Pepper Jack or a bit of smoked gouda can add interesting layers of flavor and heat without overpowering the green chile elements.
How spicy is this bread?
The level of spice depends on the types and amounts of green chiles you use. Using the optional roasted chiles will add more heat, but the bread generally offers a mild, pleasant warmth suitable for most tastes.
Can I make mini loaves or muffins instead of one big loaf?
Yes! Baking the batter in muffin tins or smaller loaf pans will reduce baking time and make portable snacks, perfect for lunches or parties.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly comforting about a warm slice of this Green Chile Cheese Bread Recipe that makes every meal feel a little more special. It’s simple, flavorful, and so versatile that you might just find yourself baking it again and again. Seriously, give it a try—it’s the kind of bread that turns ordinary days into delicious memories with every bite!
Print
Green Chile Cheese Bread Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 1 loaf (about 8 servings)
- Category: Bread
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Southwestern American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Green Chile Cheese Bread is a flavorful and savory quick bread loaded with sharp cheddar, Monterey Jack cheese, and spicy green chiles. Perfect for adding a zesty twist to your meal or serving as a hearty snack, this bread combines a tender crumb with melty, spicy cheese throughout. Ready in under an hour, it’s an easy bake that brings a touch of Southwestern flair to your kitchen.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
Cheese and Chiles
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
- 1 (4 oz) can diced green chiles, drained
- 1/2 cup chopped roasted green chiles (optional for extra heat)
Wet Ingredients
- 2 large eggs
- 3/4 cup milk
- 1/3 cup vegetable oil or melted butter
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan or line it with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, salt, and garlic powder to evenly distribute the leavening and seasonings.
- Add Cheese and Chiles: Stir in shredded sharp cheddar, Monterey Jack cheese, diced green chiles, and optional roasted green chiles to the dry mixture, ensuring they are well incorporated.
- Combine Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, and vegetable oil or melted butter until the mixture is smooth and homogeneous.
- Mix Wet and Dry: Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir gently until just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the bread tender.
- Prepare for Baking: Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and use a spatula to smooth the top evenly.
- Bake: Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 40 to 50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean and the top is golden brown.
- Cool and Serve: Let the bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely or serve warm.
Notes
- You can substitute the green chiles with canned mild or hot diced jalapeños depending on your spice preference.
- For a richer flavor, use melted butter instead of vegetable oil.
- Ensure not to overmix the batter to keep the bread light and tender.
- Store leftover bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or freeze for longer storage.
