Southwest Corn Spoon Bread

Heat the oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the green onions, corn, red peppers, and garlic and sauté for 3 minutes. Remove the pan from the heat and set aside. In a large saucepan, heat the milk, heavy cream, sugar, and salt over medium heat until the mixture comes to a simmer. While adding the cornmeal in a fine stream, briskly whisk the mixture until it thickens, about 30 seconds. Remove the pan from the heat and stir in the butter, then let the mixture cool for 5 minutes. Add the sautéed vegetables to the mixture, along with the pepper, cheese, chilies, eggs, and hot pepper sauce, if using. Spoon the mixture into a greased 8- by 8-inch pan and bake at 350º until the bread is golden and set, about 30 to 35 minutes. Enjoy warm. Makes 8 to 10 servings.