Cheesy Zucchini Cornbread Casserole is a perfect blend of savory and slightly sweet flavors, making it an ideal dish for family dinners, potlucks, or holiday gatherings. This casserole combines the moist texture of grated zucchini with the rich taste of cheddar cheese and the classic taste of cornbread. The addition of corn kernels and green onions adds an extra layer of flavor and texture, making this dish both hearty and satisfying. Follow this comprehensive guide to create a delightful casserole that will become a favorite in your household.
Ingredients
To make Cheesy Zucchini Cornbread Casserole, gather the following ingredients:
- 2 cups grated zucchini (about 2 medium zucchinis)
- 1 cup cornmeal
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp baking soda
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 2 large eggs
- 1/4 cup melted butter
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup corn kernels (fresh, canned, or frozen)
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×9-inch baking dish or a similar-sized casserole dish with butter or non-stick cooking spray.
Step 2: Prepare the Zucchini
Grate the zucchinis and place them in a colander. Sprinkle a little salt over the grated zucchini and let it sit for about 10 minutes. This will help draw out excess moisture. After 10 minutes, squeeze out as much moisture as possible using a clean kitchen towel or paper towels.
Step 3: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cornmeal, all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, black pepper, and granulated sugar. Whisk the dry ingredients together until well combined.
Step 4: Prepare the Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the buttermilk, eggs, and melted butter until smooth and well combined.
Step 5: Combine the Ingredients
Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. Be careful not to overmix the batter. Gently fold in the grated zucchini, shredded cheddar cheese, corn kernels, and chopped green onions until evenly distributed.
Step 6: Transfer to the Baking Dish
Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly with a spatula.
Step 7: Bake the Casserole
Place the casserole dish in the preheated oven and bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Step 8: Serve and Enjoy
Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving. This dish can be served warm or at room temperature. Garnish with additional chopped green onions if desired.
Cook’s Notes
- Zucchini: Ensure you squeeze out as much moisture from the grated zucchini as possible to prevent the casserole from becoming too soggy.
- Cheese: Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese, such as Monterey Jack or Colby, for a different flavor profile.
- Corn: Fresh corn kernels add a nice crunch, but you can also use canned or frozen corn for convenience.
Variations
Spicy Version
Add a chopped jalapeño or a teaspoon of red pepper flakes to the batter for a spicy kick. You can also sprinkle some pepper jack cheese on top for extra heat.
Gluten-Free Option
Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend to make this dish gluten-free. Ensure the cornmeal you use is also gluten-free.
Extra Veggies
Incorporate other vegetables like bell peppers or shredded carrots for added nutrition and flavor.
Keto Version
To make a keto-friendly version of this casserole, replace the cornmeal with almond flour and use a low-carb sweetener instead of sugar. You can also omit the corn kernels to reduce the carb content further.
Low Carb Version
For a low-carb version, use a combination of almond flour and coconut flour instead of cornmeal and all-purpose flour. Reduce the amount of sugar or use a sugar substitute. You can also omit or reduce the amount of corn kernels.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I use frozen zucchini?
Yes, you can use frozen zucchini. Thaw it completely and squeeze out as much moisture as possible before using it in the recipe.
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the batter ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, pour the batter into the prepared baking dish and bake as directed.
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.
Can I freeze the casserole?
Yes, you can freeze the baked casserole. Allow it to cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
What can I serve with Cheesy Zucchini Cornbread Casserole?
This casserole pairs well with a variety of dishes, including grilled chicken, roasted vegetables, or a fresh green salad.
Cheesy Zucchini Cornbread Casserole is a versatile and delicious dish that combines the best of cornbread and cheesy casseroles. With its moist texture, savory flavors, and a hint of sweetness, this casserole is sure to be a hit at any meal. Whether you’re looking for a comforting side dish or a main course, this recipe is easy to make and full of flavor. Try it out and enjoy the delightful combination of zucchini, cheese, and cornbread in every bite.
