Broccoli Cheese Cornbread: A Comforting Twist on a Classic
Broccoli cheese cornbread – it’s the comforting, savory side dish you didn’t know you needed! This recipe elevates traditional cornbread by incorporating tender broccoli florets and gooey, melted cheese, creating a delightful texture and flavor combination. It’s perfect for potlucks, holiday gatherings, or simply a cozy weeknight dinner. This recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser and is surprisingly easy to make. Get ready to impress your family and friends with this delicious twist on a classic!
Why You’ll Love This Broccoli Cheese Cornbread
* **Flavor Explosion:** The combination of sweet cornbread, savory broccoli, and cheesy goodness is simply irresistible.
* **Easy to Make:** This recipe is straightforward and requires minimal effort. Most of the ingredients are pantry staples.
* **Versatile:** It pairs well with a variety of dishes, from chili and soup to roasted chicken and BBQ.
* **Kid-Friendly:** Even picky eaters will enjoy the cheesy, slightly sweet flavor and soft texture.
* **Perfect for Any Occasion:** Whether it’s a casual weeknight dinner or a festive holiday feast, this cornbread is always a hit.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Before you begin, gather these ingredients:
* **Cornmeal:** 1 cup yellow cornmeal (medium or coarse grind)
* **All-Purpose Flour:** 1 cup all-purpose flour
* **Sugar:** 1/4 cup granulated sugar (adjust to taste; can use honey or maple syrup for a healthier option)
* **Baking Powder:** 1 tablespoon baking powder
* **Salt:** 1/2 teaspoon salt
* **Eggs:** 2 large eggs, lightly beaten
* **Milk:** 1 cup milk (whole milk or buttermilk preferred for richness)
* **Vegetable Oil:** 1/4 cup vegetable oil (can substitute with melted butter or coconut oil)
* **Broccoli:** 1 cup broccoli florets, cooked and chopped (fresh or frozen, thawed)
* **Cheddar Cheese:** 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (sharp or mild, your preference)
* **Optional Add-ins:**
* 1/4 cup chopped onion or scallions
* 1/4 cup crumbled bacon
* 1/4 cup chopped jalapenos (for a spicy kick)
Equipment
* Large mixing bowl
* Whisk
* Measuring cups and spoons
* 9-inch cast iron skillet or baking pan
* Oven
Step-by-Step Instructions
Follow these easy steps to create your own delicious broccoli cheese cornbread:
**Step 1: Prepare the Broccoli**
1. If using fresh broccoli, wash and chop the florets into small, bite-sized pieces.
2. Steam, boil, or microwave the broccoli until tender-crisp (about 5-7 minutes). Avoid overcooking, as it will become mushy.
3. If using frozen broccoli, thaw it completely and drain any excess water.
4. Chop the cooked broccoli into smaller pieces.
**Step 2: Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Pan**
1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. If using a cast iron skillet, place it in the oven while it preheats. This will help create a crispy crust on the cornbread. If using a baking pan, grease it well with butter or cooking spray.
**Step 3: Combine the Dry Ingredients**
1. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the cornmeal, flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt until well combined. This ensures that the baking powder is evenly distributed, resulting in a light and fluffy cornbread.
**Step 4: Combine the Wet Ingredients**
1. In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, and vegetable oil (or melted butter) until well combined.
**Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients**
1. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can result in a tough cornbread. A few lumps are perfectly fine.
**Step 6: Add Broccoli and Cheese**
1. Gently fold in the cooked and chopped broccoli and shredded cheddar cheese until evenly distributed throughout the batter. If you’re using any optional add-ins (onion, bacon, jalapenos), add them at this stage as well.
**Step 7: Bake the Cornbread**
1. Carefully remove the preheated cast iron skillet from the oven (if using). Be sure to use oven mitts, as the skillet will be very hot.
2. Pour the cornbread batter into the hot skillet or greased baking pan.
3. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until a wooden skewer inserted into the center comes out clean and the cornbread is golden brown on top. The baking time may vary depending on your oven, so keep an eye on it.
**Step 8: Cool and Serve**
1. Let the cornbread cool in the skillet or pan for a few minutes before slicing and serving.
2. Serve warm and enjoy! This cornbread is delicious on its own or with a pat of butter, a drizzle of honey, or a dollop of sour cream.
Tips and Variations
* **Buttermilk for Extra Tang:** Substitute buttermilk for regular milk for a tangier flavor.
* **Add Some Spice:** Incorporate a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce for a spicy kick.
* **Different Cheeses:** Experiment with different types of cheese, such as Monterey Jack, pepper jack, or Colby Jack.
* **Make it Gluten-Free:** Use a gluten-free flour blend instead of all-purpose flour.
* **Sweet Cornbread:** Increase the sugar to 1/2 cup for a sweeter cornbread.
* **Herb Infusion:** Add fresh herbs like thyme, rosemary, or chives to the batter for added flavor.
* **Corn Kernel Boost:** Mix in 1/2 cup of canned or frozen corn kernels for extra corn flavor and texture.
* **Make it Ahead:** The cornbread can be made ahead of time and reheated. Store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until warmed through.
* **Prevent Sticking:** Ensure your skillet or pan is well-greased to prevent the cornbread from sticking. You can also use parchment paper to line the bottom of the pan.
* **Adjust Sweetness:** The amount of sugar can be adjusted to your preference. If you prefer a less sweet cornbread, reduce the sugar to 2 tablespoons or even omit it altogether. You can also use alternative sweeteners like honey or maple syrup.
* **Broccoli Preparation:** Be sure to cook the broccoli until tender-crisp. Overcooked broccoli will become mushy and detract from the texture of the cornbread. Undercooked broccoli will be too crunchy.
* **Cheese Distribution:** To ensure the cheese is evenly distributed throughout the cornbread, gently fold it into the batter after you have combined the wet and dry ingredients.
* **Even Baking:** For even baking, make sure your oven is properly preheated and the cornbread is placed in the center of the oven. If the top of the cornbread is browning too quickly, tent it with aluminum foil.
* **Serving Suggestions:** This broccoli cheese cornbread pairs perfectly with chili, soup, stews, BBQ, roasted chicken, pulled pork, or as a side dish to any hearty meal. It’s also delicious on its own with a pat of butter, a drizzle of honey, or a dollop of sour cream.
* **Storage:** Store leftover cornbread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Reheat in a preheated oven or microwave.
* **Freezing:** You can freeze the cornbread for longer storage. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil, or place it in a freezer-safe bag. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 2-3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Serving Suggestions
This broccoli cheese cornbread is a versatile side dish that complements a wide variety of meals. Here are some serving suggestions:
* **Chili Night:** Serve it alongside a bowl of hearty chili for a comforting and satisfying meal.
* **Soup Suppers:** Pair it with your favorite soup, such as tomato soup, chicken noodle soup, or vegetable soup.
* **BBQ Feast:** It’s the perfect accompaniment to BBQ ribs, pulled pork, or grilled chicken.
* **Holiday Gatherings:** Add it to your Thanksgiving or Christmas spread for a unique and flavorful side dish.
* **Potlucks and Parties:** Bring it to your next potluck or party and watch it disappear!
* **Weeknight Dinners:** Serve it with a simple roast chicken or baked ham for an easy and delicious weeknight meal.
Nutritional Information (Approximate)
(Per serving, based on 12 servings)
* Calories: 250-300
* Fat: 12-15g
* Saturated Fat: 6-8g
* Cholesterol: 50-60mg
* Sodium: 300-400mg
* Carbohydrates: 30-35g
* Fiber: 2-3g
* Sugar: 5-7g
* Protein: 6-8g
**Note:** Nutritional information is an estimate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients used.
Conclusion
Broccoli cheese cornbread is a delightful and unexpected twist on a classic side dish. It’s easy to make, incredibly flavorful, and perfect for any occasion. With its combination of sweet cornbread, savory broccoli, and cheesy goodness, it’s sure to become a family favorite. So, gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to enjoy a truly comforting and delicious treat!