Cornbread is a beloved classic, offering a warm and comforting side dish that complements almost any meal. But what if you could take this staple to the next level? Enter the Zucchini Cornbread Casserole, a flavorful twist that incorporates fresh vegetables and bold spices into a moist, cheesy, and irresistible dish. Perfect for weeknight dinners, potlucks, or holiday gatherings, this casserole brings both taste and nutrition to your table.
Ingredients You’ll Need
To make this delicious Zucchini Cornbread Casserole, gather the following ingredients:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Zucchini, drained and shredded | 3 1/2 cups |
| Cheddar cheese, shredded | 16 oz (divided) |
| White onion, diced | 1 medium |
| Frozen corn, thawed | 1 cup |
| Jalapeño, chopped | 1 (seeds removed for milder flavor) |
| Eggs | 2 large |
| Garlic powder | 1.5 mg |
| Cumin | 2 tsp |
| Black pepper | 1/2 tsp |
| Salt | 1 tsp |
| Corn muffin mix (8.5 oz box) | 1 box |
Step-by-Step Guide to Making Zucchini Cornbread Casserole
1. Preheat Your Oven
Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease an 8×8-inch baking dish with butter or non-stick spray to prevent sticking.
2. Prepare the Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded zucchini, diced onion, thawed corn, chopped jalapeño, and half of the shredded cheddar cheese. Add the eggs, garlic powder, cumin, salt, and black pepper. Stir until everything is evenly distributed.
3. Incorporate the Corn Muffin Mix
Gradually add the corn muffin mix to the zucchini mixture, stirring until fully incorporated. The batter should be thick, well-combined, and free of dry patches.
4. Transfer to Baking Dish
Pour the mixture into your prepared baking dish and spread it evenly with a spatula. Sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese over the top to cover the casserole.
5. Bake to Perfection
Bake in the preheated oven for 50–55 minutes. The casserole is done when the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. For a crispier top, broil for 2–3 minutes after baking.
6. Let It Rest and Serve
Remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest for about 10 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld and makes it easier to slice. Serve warm as a side dish or a main vegetarian-friendly meal.
Pro Tip: Add a sprinkle of smoked paprika or chopped fresh herbs on top for extra flavor and presentation!
