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Cozy Cheesy Zucchini Cornbread Casserole

cozy cheesy zucchini cornbread casserole - featured image

A comforting and easy casserole combining shredded zucchini with cheesy cornbread, perfect for cozy dinners and quick weeknight meals.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup yellow cornmeal
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour (or almond flour for gluten-free)
  • 1 tablespoon baking powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 2 large eggs, room temperature
  • 1 cup buttermilk (or 1 cup milk + 1 tablespoon lemon juice)
  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted and cooled (or olive oil for dairy-free)
  • 2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup
  • 2 medium zucchinis, shredded (about 2 cups; moisture squeezed out)
  • 1 1/2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded (or mix cheddar and Monterey Jack)
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/4 cup chopped green onions (optional)
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper (optional)
  • 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×9-inch baking dish with butter or non-stick spray.
  2. Shred zucchini using a box grater or food processor. Squeeze out excess moisture using a clean kitchen towel or cheesecloth.
  3. In a large bowl, whisk together cornmeal, flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, smoked paprika, black pepper, and garlic powder if using.
  4. In another bowl, beat eggs lightly. Add buttermilk, melted butter, and honey; stir until combined.
  5. Pour wet ingredients into dry ingredients and stir gently until just combined; do not overmix.
  6. Fold in shredded zucchini, green onions, and 1 cup of cheddar cheese.
  7. Spread batter evenly into prepared baking dish. Sprinkle remaining 1/2 cup cheddar and Parmesan cheese evenly on top.
  8. Bake for 35-40 minutes until top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Cheese on top should be bubbly and slightly crisp.
  9. Let casserole rest for about 10 minutes before serving to allow it to set.
  10. Serve warm and enjoy.

Notes

Squeeze out all excess moisture from zucchini to avoid soggy casserole. Do not overmix batter to prevent tough cornbread. Let casserole rest before serving for easier slicing. Tent with foil if browning too quickly. Can substitute gluten-free flour and dairy-free ingredients for dietary needs.

Nutrition

Keywords: zucchini casserole, cheesy cornbread, comfort food, easy casserole, weeknight dinner, zucchini recipes, cornbread casserole