The Best Cheesy Broccoli Cornbread: A Deliciously Moist & Veggie-Packed Side Dish

Prepare to fall in love with this incredible broccoli cornbread recipe! It’s famously moist, bursting with cheesy flavor, and surprisingly easy to make. This delightful bread isn’t just a treat for your taste buds; it’s also a brilliantly fun and effortless way to introduce more wholesome vegetables into your family’s diet, even for the pickiest eaters. Whether you’re looking for a hearty side, a savory snack, or a unique potluck contribution, this broccoli cornbread is guaranteed to impress.

Two golden-brown squares of cheesy broccoli cornbread, stacked one on top of the other, showcasing its moist texture and green flecks.

Why You’ll Adore This Broccoli Cornbread Recipe

There are countless reasons why this broccoli cornbread has become a firm favorite in so many kitchens. It strikes the perfect balance between comfort food and nutritious eating, offering a versatile dish that’s both simple to prepare and universally loved.

Effortless Homemade Goodness: Say goodbye to those less-than-healthy boxed mixes! This recipe champions a simple, from-scratch cornbread base, ensuring you know exactly what goes into your food. Despite being made from scratch, this broccoli cornbread remains incredibly easy to prepare, making it accessible even for novice bakers. The result is a far superior flavor and texture that a mix simply can’t replicate.
A Master of Disguise for Veggies: This is truly a parent’s secret weapon! The finely chopped broccoli seamlessly blends into the rich, cheesy batter. Once baked, the broccoli becomes wonderfully tender and its flavor mellows, making it almost undetectable amidst the other delicious ingredients. It’s a fantastic method to ensure your kids (and even some adults!) get their daily dose of healthy greens without a fuss.
The Ultimate Crowd-Pleaser: Planning a party, a family gathering, or need a standout dish for your next potluck? This cheesy broccoli cornbread is an absolute winner. Its unique combination of sweet and savory notes, combined with an irresistible texture, ensures that it’s a side dish everyone will rave about. It disappears fast, so you might want to bake an extra batch!
Incredibly Moist and Flavorful: Thanks to key ingredients like cottage cheese and melted butter, this cornbread is exceptionally moist, preventing any dry or crumbly texture often associated with cornbread. The generous amount of cheese provides a savory depth that complements the subtle sweetness of the cornmeal perfectly.
Quick to Prepare: With just 15 minutes of prep time and 30 minutes in the oven, you can have this delicious cornbread ready in under an hour. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or when you need a speedy yet impressive side.

Decoding the Key Ingredients for Perfect Broccoli Cornbread

Each ingredient in this recipe plays a crucial role in achieving the moist, cheesy, and flavorful cornbread you’ll come to love. Understanding their purpose can also help you make informed substitutions or variations.

Broccoli: The star veggie! For the best texture, finely chop fresh broccoli florets and stems (peel stems if they’re thick). Aim for pieces about 1/4 to 1/8-inch in size. Smaller pieces integrate better into the batter and become less noticeable, perfect for stealthy veggie consumption. While fresh is preferred for its vibrant color and crisp texture, you can use frozen broccoli (thaw and drain thoroughly) in a pinch, though the texture might be slightly softer.
Cottage Cheese: This is our secret weapon for an unbelievably moist cornbread! Cottage cheese adds a wonderful tenderness and richness to the batter. Beyond moisture, it also contributes an extra layer of subtle, irresistible cheesiness that melds beautifully with the cheddar. Don’t worry, the curds practically disappear into the baked bread, leaving only a creamy texture. You can use full-fat or low-fat cottage cheese depending on your dietary preferences.
Cheddar Cheese: This cheese delivers a significant punch of savory flavor and creates that glorious melted, cheesy crust on top that elevates this cornbread to “next level” deliciousness. While optional, we highly recommend including it for maximum flavor. For convenience, use pre-shredded cheddar, or shred your own for a fresher taste. If cheddar isn’t available, shredded Monterey Jack cheese or a Colby Jack blend make excellent alternatives, offering a similar melty texture and mild flavor.
All-Purpose Flour: Provides structure to the cornbread. Make sure to level your flour when measuring for consistent results.
Yellow Cornmeal: The foundation of any good cornbread, giving it its distinctive texture and classic flavor. Fine or medium-ground cornmeal works best for a tender crumb.
Fresh Baking Powder: Essential for leavening, ensuring a light and airy texture. Always check the expiration date to ensure it’s fresh and active.
Granulated Sugar: A touch of sugar balances the savory notes and enhances the overall flavor of the cornbread. You can adjust the amount to your preference or explore alternatives.
Salt: A pinch of salt is crucial for bringing out all the flavors in the cornbread, preventing it from tasting bland.
Unsalted Butter (Melted): Adds richness, flavor, and contributes significantly to the moistness. Using unsalted butter gives you control over the overall salt content of the recipe.
Large Eggs (Lightly Beaten): Eggs act as a binder, helping to hold the cornbread together, and also contribute to its rich texture and slight rise.
Milk: Provides necessary liquid to form the batter and helps create a tender crumb. Any type of dairy milk (whole, 2%, skim) will work, or a non-dairy alternative like almond or soy milk for a dairy-free option.

Cheryl’s Top Tips for Broccoli Cornbread Success

These expert tips from Cheryl will help you achieve perfect results every time and make the most of your delicious broccoli cornbread.

Smart Storage for Leftovers: While it’s highly doubtful you’ll have any leftovers, if you do, store the cornbread in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This prevents it from drying out and keeps it fresh. You can enjoy it cold straight from the fridge or gently warm it for a few minutes in a toaster oven, microwave, or a conventional oven (covered with foil to prevent excessive browning) until heated through.
Monitor the Cheesy Crust During Baking: The melted cheddar cheese on top is a highlight of this recipe! However, ovens can vary, and cheese can brown quickly. Keep a close eye on the cheese atop your broccoli cornbread, especially during the last 10-15 minutes of baking. If you notice it’s browning too rapidly before the cornbread is fully cooked, simply cover the baking dish loosely with a sheet of aluminum foil. This will prevent further browning while allowing the cornbread to finish baking through evenly.
Customize Your Broccoli Content: This recipe is incredibly adaptable! Feel free to adjust the amount of broccoli to suit your preference or your family’s acceptance level. You could increase the amount to a generous 3 cups for a super veggie-packed bread, or decrease it to as little as 1 cup if you’re trying to be extra sneaky with hidden vegetables. Don’t be afraid to experiment!
Don’t Overmix the Batter: When combining the wet and dry ingredients, mix just until they are incorporated. Overmixing can develop the gluten in the flour, leading to a tough and dense cornbread instead of a tender and moist one. A few lumps are perfectly fine!
Preheat Your Baking Pan (Optional but Recommended): For an extra crispy crust on the bottom, some bakers like to preheat the empty, greased baking pan in the oven for about 5-10 minutes before adding the batter. Just be extremely careful when handling a hot pan!

Creative Recipe Variations to Try

One of the joys of cooking from scratch is the ability to easily customize and adapt recipes. Here are some fantastic ways to switch up your broccoli cornbread:

Make it Gluten-Free: It’s easy to adapt this recipe for those with gluten sensitivities. Simply substitute the all-purpose flour with a good quality gluten-free all-purpose flour blend (look for one that contains xanthan gum, or add 1/2 teaspoon per cup of flour). The texture will remain delightfully moist and flavorful.
Sugar Substitutions: The recipe calls for granulated sugar, but you have options! You can use white sugar, cane sugar, or even granular sugar substitutes like Swerve or erythritol if you’re looking to reduce the sugar content or follow a specific diet. Adjust to your desired level of sweetness. For a more savory cornbread, you could even reduce the sugar slightly or omit it entirely.
Add More Veggies: This cornbread is a fantastic canvas for other vegetables. Consider adding finely diced bell peppers, corn kernels (fresh or frozen), or even grated zucchini (squeeze out excess moisture).
Spice It Up: For a kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper, a dash of hot sauce to the batter, or finely diced jalapeños (deseeded for less heat).
Herbal Infusion: Incorporate fresh or dried herbs like chives, thyme, or a touch of rosemary for an aromatic twist.
Different Cheeses: While cheddar is classic, experiment with other cheeses like Gruyère for a nutty flavor, pepper jack for a spicy kick, or a blend of Italian cheeses.
Savory vs. Sweet: If you prefer a more traditional, less sweet cornbread, reduce the sugar to 1-2 tablespoons or omit it completely. For an even sweeter version, you could increase the sugar by a tablespoon or two.

An overhead, angled shot of a single square of broccoli cornbread resting on another square, surrounded by more golden squares, highlighting the tender crumb and cheesy topping.

A stream of golden honey being drizzled over two perfectly baked squares of broccoli cornbread, adding a touch of sweetness.

Serving Suggestions for Your Cheesy Broccoli Cornbread

This versatile cornbread can be enjoyed in so many ways. Its savory and slightly sweet profile makes it a fantastic accompaniment to a variety of meals:

Classic Comfort: Serve it alongside a hearty bowl of chili, a steaming cup of soup, or a slow-cooked stew. The cornbread is perfect for soaking up all those delicious juices.
BBQ Companion: It’s an excellent addition to any barbecue spread, pairing wonderfully with pulled pork, grilled chicken, or smoked ribs.
Breakfast/Brunch Treat: Enjoy it warm with a drizzle of honey or maple syrup for a delightful breakfast or brunch side.
Holiday Tables: A unique and festive addition to Thanksgiving, Christmas, or Easter dinners, offering a fresh take on traditional bread sides.
Simple Snack: It’s delicious on its own as a quick snack, perhaps with a smear of butter or a sprinkle of flaky sea salt.

More Delicious Side Dish Recipes You’ll Love

Looking to round out your meal with more incredible sides? Here are some other favorites from our kitchen that you’re sure to enjoy, offering a range of flavors and preparation methods:

Garlic Butter Parsley Potatoes
Air Fryer Red Potatoes
Vegan Coleslaw
Smoked Asparagus
Red Potato Salad
Air Fryer Squash
Sliced Potatoes in the Air Fryer (with an Irresistible Creamy Herb Sauce)
Gluten Free Onion Rings
Keto Broccoli Salad

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Broccoli Cornbread

Prep: 15 minutes

Cook: 30 minutes

Total: 45 minutes

This broccoli cornbread is super moist, delightfully cheesy, and incredibly flavorful – not to mention, a brilliant and fun way to sneak some extra healthy veggies into your day! Perfect as a side, snack, or potluck favorite.

Cheryl Malik Cheryl Malik

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12 servings

Ingredients

▢ 1 cup all-purpose flour
▢ 1 cup yellow cornmeal
▢ 1 tablespoon fresh baking powder
▢ ¼ cup granulated sugar
▢ 1 pinch salt
▢ 1 cup cottage cheese
▢ 6 tablespoons unsalted butter melted
▢ 4 large eggs lightly beaten
▢ ½ cup milk
▢ ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese
▢ 2 cups finely chopped broccoli
▢ ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese optional, for topping

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Equipment

Oven
9×9 inch Baking dish (or similar size)
Neutral-flavored cooking spray or butter for greasing
Large mixing bowl
Large wooden spoon or spatula

Instructions

Begin by preheating your oven to 375° Fahrenheit (190°C). As it heats, take your 9×9 inch baking pan and lightly grease it with butter or a neutral-flavored cooking spray, ensuring no sticking.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the dry ingredients: 1 cup all-purpose flour, 1 cup yellow cornmeal, 1 tablespoon fresh baking powder, ¼ cup granulated sugar, and 1 pinch salt. Stir these ingredients together thoroughly until they are well incorporated and evenly distributed.
Gently push the dry ingredients to the sides of the bowl, forming a clear well in the center. Into this well, add the wet ingredients: 1 cup cottage cheese, 6 tablespoons unsalted butter (ensure it’s melted), 4 large eggs (lightly beaten), and ½ cup milk. Stir all these ingredients together with a large wooden spoon or spatula until they are fully combined into a thick, uniform batter. Be careful not to overmix.
Now, add the key flavorful additions to the bowl: ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese and 2 cups finely chopped broccoli. Gently fold these ingredients into the batter using your spoon or spatula until they are just incorporated. Overmixing at this stage can lead to a tough cornbread.
Carefully transfer the prepared cornbread batter into your greased baking pan. Using the back of your spoon or a spatula, spread the batter out evenly across the pan, ensuring it fills the pan completely and smoothly. If you’re using it, generously sprinkle the remaining ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese over the top of the batter for an extra cheesy crust.
Place the baking dish in the center rack of your preheated oven. Bake the cornbread for approximately 25-30 minutes, or until a wooden toothpick inserted into the very center of the pan comes out clean or with only a few moist crumbs attached. Keep an eye on the cheese topping to prevent over-browning; if needed, tent loosely with foil.
Once the cornbread is perfectly baked through and golden, carefully remove the pan from the oven. Allow it to cool slightly in the pan for about 10-15 minutes before slicing it into squares. Serve warm as desired, and enjoy every moist, cheesy bite!

Notes

Storage: Store any leftover cornbread in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days to maintain its freshness and moisture.
Freezing Instructions: To freeze, wrap individual slices or the entire cooled cornbread tightly in plastic wrap, then in aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 2-3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat as desired.
Make Ahead: You can prepare the dry ingredients and store them in an airtight container. When ready to bake, simply combine with the wet ingredients and broccoli.

Nutrition Information

Number of total servings shown is approximate. Actual number of servings will depend on your preferred portion sizes.

Nutritional values shown are general guidelines and reflect information for 1 serving using the ingredients listed, not including any optional ingredients. Actual macros may vary slightly depending on specific brands and types of ingredients used. For precise nutritional information, it is recommended to calculate based on the specific brands and quantities of ingredients you use.

To determine the weight of one serving, prepare the recipe as instructed. Weigh the finished recipe, then divide the weight of the finished recipe (not including the weight of the container the food is in) by the desired number of servings. Result will be the weight of one serving.