Cheesy Zucchini Cornbread Casserole

 

Cheesy Zucchini Cornbread Casserole: A Savory Twist on a Classic Favorite

If you’re looking for a comforting, crowd-pleasing dish that makes the most of late-summer produce, look no further than this Cheesy Zucchini Cornbread Casserole. It’s warm, hearty, and packed with flavor — a creative way to bring together garden-fresh zucchini, cornbread mix, and plenty of melty cheese.

Whether you're feeding a hungry family or bringing a side dish to a potluck, this casserole combines the best of both worlds: the satisfying texture of cornbread and the creamy, cheesy goodness of a vegetable bake. It’s easy to make, endlessly customizable, and the kind of recipe that tastes like home.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• ✅ Uses up garden zucchini — a delicious way to put summer squash to work

• ✅ One bowl, one dish — less cleanup, more flavor

• ✅ Crowd-pleasing comfort food — even picky eaters love it

• ✅ Cheesy, savory, and satisfying — ideal as a side or meatless main

• ✅ Freezer-friendly and make-ahead approved

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Ingredients

• 1 box (8.5 oz) corn muffin mix (like Jiffy)

• 2 cups shredded zucchini (squeezed dry)

• 2 large eggs

• ½ cup sour cream

• ¼ cup milk

• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese

• ½ cup diced onion

• ½ teaspoon garlic powder

• Salt and pepper to taste

• Optional: chopped fresh herbs (like parsley or thyme)

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Instructions

1. Preheat and Prep

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9x9-inch or 9x13-inch baking dish, depending on how thick you like your casserole.

2. Squeeze the Zucchini

Place shredded zucchini in a clean towel or cheesecloth and wring out as much moisture as possible. This helps keep the casserole from becoming soggy.

3. Mix It All Together

In a large bowl, combine the corn muffin mix, eggs, sour cream, milk, and garlic powder. Stir in the zucchini, diced onion, cheddar, Parmesan, and season with salt and pepper.

4. Pour and Bake

Spread the mixture evenly in the prepared baking dish. Bake for 35–40 minutes, or until the top is golden and a toothpick comes out clean from the center.

5. Let Rest and Serve

Allow to cool for 5–10 minutes before slicing. Serve warm, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.

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Tips & Variations

• Add extra veggies: Mix in corn, bell peppers, or chopped spinach for more color and texture.

• Make it spicy: Add chopped jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne for a kick.

• Switch up the cheese: Try pepper jack, mozzarella, or smoked gouda.

• Add protein: Fold in cooked bacon or crumbled sausage for a heartier dish.

• Make it gluten-free: Use a GF cornbread mix and double-check your ingredients.

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Serving Suggestions

• Serve as a side dish with grilled meats, chili, or barbecue

• Enjoy it as a light vegetarian main with a side salad

• Perfect for potlucks, brunch, or holiday dinners

• Delicious the next day — reheats well in the oven or microwave

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Final Thoughts

This Cheesy Zucchini Cornbread Casserole is proof that comfort food can be wholesome, easy, and loaded with fresh ingredients. With its golden crust, tender center, and irresistible cheesy flavor, it’s sure to become a staple in your seasonal recipe collection.

Whether you’re swimming in zucchini from your garden or just craving something cozy and satisfying, this dish delivers — every single time.