Skip to main content

Broccoli Cheddar Cornbread

This broccoli and cheddar cornbread is a savoury twist on a classic comfort food staple. By combining the sweetness of the cornmeal with the earthy notes of broccoli and sharp cheddar, you create a side dish that is far more substantial than the traditional version. The addition of cottage cheese ensures a moist, tender crumb that stays fresh for longer, while cooking it in a frying pan provides those sought-after golden, crisp edges.

Perfect as a vegetarian main course served with a side salad, or as an accompaniment to a hearty bowl of chilli, this versatile bake is a family favourite. It is a brilliant way to incorporate extra vegetables into your meals without compromising on flavour. This easy, one-pan method makes it ideal for a quick midweek supper or a casual weekend brunch with friends.

Continue reading below

Ingredients for Broccoli Cheddar Cornbread

  • 110g unsalted butter

  • 1 medium onion, chopped

  • 2 garlic cloves, minced

  • One 275g package frozen chopped broccoli, thawed but not drained (or see headnote)

  • Two 8 1/60g boxes cornbread mix

  • 120ml whole milk

  • One 230g container cottage cheese

  • 4 large eggs

  • 1 tablespoon salt

  • 120g plus 2 tablespoons grated sharp cheddar cheese, for topping

How to make Broccoli Cheddar Cornbread

Preheat the oven to 191°C.

Heat the butter in a 10-inch cast-iron skillet over medium high heat. Add the onion, and sauté until softened, 4 to 5 minutes. Add the garlic and broccoli to the skillet, and sauté for 2 minutes, until the garlic is fragrant and the broccoli has warmed through. In a medium bowl, stir together the cornbread mix, milk, cottage cheese, eggs, salt, and 120g the cheddar cheese until smooth, then pour the batter into the skillet over the vegetables and stir to blend. Sprinkle the top of the batter with the remaining cheese. Bake the cornbread in the skillet for about 30 minutes, until it is lightly golden and a toothpick inserted in the centre comes out clean. Cool for 5 to 10 minutes, then serve.

Disclaimer

While every effort has been made to ensure the information is accurate and up to date, individual needs may vary and dietary requirements can differ based on personal health conditions. Always check food labels and allergen information before preparing or consuming any recipe. If you have specific health concerns, allergies, intolerances, or are following a medically prescribed diet, seek advice from your GP, pharmacist, or a registered dietitian before making significant changes to your diet or lifestyle.

Article history

The information on this page is peer reviewed by qualified clinicians.

  • 16 Jan 2026 | Originally published

    Authored by:

    UK recipe editors

    Peer reviewed by

    UK recipe editors
flu eligibility checker

Ask, share, connect.

Browse discussions, ask questions, and share experiences across hundreds of health topics.

symptom checker

Feeling unwell?

Assess your symptoms online for free

Sign up to the Patient newsletter

Your weekly dose of clear, trustworthy health advice - written to help you feel informed, confident and in control.

Please enter a valid email address

By subscribing you accept our Privacy Policy. You can unsubscribe at any time. We never sell your data.