Sweet Onion Broccoli Cornbread Recipe

This delicious sweet onion and broccoli cornbread recipe is a delightful twist on a classic side dish. With the inclusion of cottage cheese for added creaminess and an interesting texture, this dish promises to be an all-time favorite for family meals, potlucks, or any comfort food cravings you have.

Photos of Sweet Onion Broccoli Cornbread Recipe

The ingredients used in this recipe are quite common and should be readily available in your pantry or local supermarket. The only exception might be the corn bread mix. It's a pre-made mixture that includes cornmeal, flour, and other ingredients typically used in cornbread recipes. If you cannot find it in the baking aisle of your supermarket, you can substitute it with a homemade mix.

Ingredients for Sweet Onion and Broccoli Cornbread

Sweet onion: A type of onion that is known for its mild, sweet flavor. Sweet onions are not as strong as regular onions, which makes them a great addition to this cornbread recipe.

Broccoli: This green vegetable adds a nice crunch and vegetal flavor to the cornbread. Frozen broccoli is used here for convenience, but fresh can be used as well.

Cottage cheese: This soft, creamy cheese adds richness and moisture to the cornbread.

Eggs: They serve as a binding agent in the recipe, ensuring the cornbread holds together well.

Corn bread mix: This is a premixed combination of the dry ingredients usually used in making cornbread. It saves time but if you prefer, you can make your own mix at home.

Salt: Enhances the flavors of the other ingredients.

Margarine: Used for greasing the pan and to add extra flavor and moisture to the cornbread.

One reader, Brina Weimer says:

This sweet onion and broccoli cornbread recipe is a game-changer! The combination of flavors is simply divine. The sweetness of the onion perfectly complements the savory broccoli, and the cornbread mix adds a delightful texture. It's a must-try for anyone looking to elevate their cornbread game!

Brina Weimer

Techniques for Making Sweet Onion and Broccoli Cornbread

How to prepare the baking pan: Grease a 9x9-inch metal baking pan to prevent the cornbread from sticking to the pan during baking.

How to mix the ingredients: Combine the sweet onion, broccoli, cottage cheese, eggs, cornbread mix, and margarine in a bowl until well mixed. This will ensure that all the ingredients are evenly distributed in the cornbread batter.

How to check for doneness: Insert a toothpick into the center of the cornbread. If it comes out clean, the cornbread is done. If not, continue baking for a few more minutes and check again.

How to serve: Cut the sweet onion and broccoli cornbread into squares and serve warm as a delicious side dish or snack.

How To Make Sweet Onion Broccoli Cornbread

Made with a scrumptious twist, the classic broccoli cornbread gets extra flavors from sweet onions and cottage cheese for a buttery and rich pastry.

Preparation: 15 minutes

Cooking: 45 minutes

Total: 1 hour

Serves:

Ingredients

1large sweet onion,such as Vidalia®, finely chopped
10ozfrozen broccoli,(1 package) thawed, chopped
¾cupcottage cheese
4eggs,beaten
7¾ozcorn bread mix,(1 package) such as Jiffy®
1tspsalt
½cupmargarine,melted

Instructions

Preheat oven to 425 degrees F. Grease a 9×9-inch metal baking pan.
In a bowl, mix together the sweet onion, broccoli, cottage cheese, eggs, corn bread mix, and margarine. Scoop the mixture into the prepared baking pan.
Bake in the preheated oven for about 45 minutes until the top is browned and the casserole has risen.
Serve and enjoy.

Nutrition

Calories: 295.19kcal
Fat: 17.77g
Saturated Fat: 4.02g
Trans Fat: 2.09g
Monounsaturated Fat: 8.24g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 4.31g
Carbohydrates: 26.31g
Fiber: 3.17g
Sugar: 3.84g
Protein: 8.40g
Cholesterol: 84.12mg
Sodium: 519.82mg
Calcium: 72.62mg
Potassium: 258.69mg
Iron: 0.96mg
Vitamin A: 54.84µg
Vitamin C: 34.12mg

Helpful Technique for Making This Cornbread Recipe

When preparing the sweet onion for this recipe, it's important to chop it finely to ensure it cooks evenly within the cornbread. Additionally, when incorporating the frozen broccoli, make sure to thaw and drain it properly to prevent excess moisture from making the cornbread soggy. Lastly, to check the doneness of the cornbread, insert a toothpick into the center. If it comes out clean, your cornbread is ready. If not, give it a few more minutes in the oven.

Time-Saving Tips for Making This Cornbread Recipe

Prep ahead: Chop the sweet onion and broccoli in advance to save time when assembling the cornbread casserole.

One-bowl mix: Combine all the ingredients in one bowl for easy and quick preparation.

Frozen veggies: Use frozen broccoli to skip the time-consuming step of washing and chopping fresh broccoli.

Quick bake: Increase the oven temperature to 425°F for a faster baking time, reducing the overall cooking duration.

Cottage cheese shortcut: Opt for cottage cheese instead of grating and measuring traditional cheese for added convenience.

Melted margarine: Melt the margarine in the microwave for a quicker incorporation into the cornbread mixture.

Efficient serving: Cut the cornbread into squares for quick and easy serving at mealtime.

Substitute Ingredients For Sweet Onion Broccoli Cornbread Recipe

sweet onion - Substitute with yellow onion: Yellow onions have a slightly stronger flavor compared to sweet onions, but they will still provide a nice oniony taste to the cornbread.
frozen broccoli - Substitute with fresh broccoli: Fresh broccoli can be blanched or steamed before adding to the cornbread mixture to ensure it cooks properly and retains its texture.
cottage cheese - Substitute with ricotta cheese: Ricotta cheese has a similar creamy texture to cottage cheese and will work well in the cornbread recipe.
eggs - Substitute with flax eggs (1 tbsp ground flaxseed + 3 tbsp water per egg): Flax eggs can be used as a vegan alternative to eggs in the recipe.
corn bread mix - Substitute with polenta: Polenta can be used as a substitute for cornbread mix to add a coarser texture and corn flavor to the cornbread.
margarine - Substitute with unsalted butter: Unsalted butter can be used as a substitute for margarine to add richness and flavor to the cornbread.

Presenting Sweet Onion and Broccoli Cornbread

Elevate the plating: Arrange the cornbread in a visually appealing manner on the plate, ensuring it is the focal point of the dish.
Garnish with finesse: Sprinkle a touch of finely chopped chives on top of the cornbread to add a pop of color and a hint of freshness.
Incorporate texture: Consider adding a delicate drizzle of honey or a sprinkle of toasted cornbread crumbs for an added textural element.
Balance the flavors: Pair the cornbread with a complementary sauce, such as a tangy roasted red pepper coulis, to enhance the overall flavor profile.
Emphasize precision: Pay attention to the placement of each component on the plate, ensuring that every element is meticulously positioned for a visually stunning presentation.
Highlight the ingredients: Showcase the sweet onion and broccoli by incorporating them as a visually striking side element, adding depth and complexity to the dish.

Essential Tools for Making Cornbread

Oven: An essential appliance for baking and roasting dishes.
9x9-inch metal baking pan: A sturdy and reliable pan for baking the cornbread casserole.
Bowl: Used for mixing the ingredients together to form the cornbread batter.
Scoop: For transferring the cornbread batter into the prepared baking pan.
Knife: To chop the sweet onion and broccoli into smaller pieces.
Measuring cup: For accurately measuring the ingredients such as cottage cheese and margarine.
Mixing spoon: To combine the ingredients thoroughly.
Oven mitts: Essential for safely handling the hot baking pan when removing it from the oven.

Storing and Freezing Sweet Onion and Broccoli Cornbread

Allow the sweet onion and broccoli cornbread to cool completely before storing or freezing. This will prevent condensation from forming and making the cornbread soggy.
To store the cornbread at room temperature, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. It will keep for up to 3 days.
For longer storage, place the wrapped cornbread in an airtight container or resealable plastic bag. It will keep in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.
To freeze the cornbread, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, then place it in a freezer-safe container or resealable plastic bag. Label the container with the date and contents. The cornbread will keep in the freezer for up to 3 months.
To thaw frozen cornbread, remove it from the freezer and let it thaw in the refrigerator overnight. Alternatively, you can thaw it at room temperature for a few hours.
To reheat the cornbread, unwrap it and place it on a baking sheet. Heat it in a preheated 350°F (175°C) oven for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave individual slices for 20-30 seconds, or until heated through.
If the cornbread has dried out slightly, you can wrap it in damp paper towels before reheating to help restore some of its moisture.
Avoid refreezing previously frozen cornbread, as this can affect its texture and quality. If you don't plan to eat the entire batch at once, consider freezing the cornbread in smaller portions so you can thaw only what you need.

How To Reheat Leftover Cornbread

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the leftover cornbread on a baking sheet and cover it loosely with aluminum foil. This will help prevent the top from browning too quickly while allowing the inside to heat through. Bake for about 15-20 minutes, or until the cornbread is heated through.
If you prefer a crispy top on your reheated cornbread, remove the foil during the last 5 minutes of baking. This will allow the top to brown and crisp up nicely, giving you a texture similar to freshly baked cornbread.
For a quicker reheating method, you can use the microwave. Place a single slice of cornbread on a microwave-safe plate and heat it on high power for about 30 seconds. If the cornbread isn't heated through, continue microwaving in 10-second intervals until it reaches your desired temperature. Keep in mind that microwaving may result in a slightly softer texture compared to oven reheating.
If you have a toaster oven, you can use it to reheat individual slices of cornbread. Cut the cornbread into slices and place them directly on the toaster oven rack. Toast for about 3-5 minutes, or until the cornbread is heated through and slightly crispy on the outside.
For a moist and flavorful reheating method, wrap the cornbread in damp paper towels before microwaving. This will help prevent the cornbread from drying out during the reheating process. Microwave on high power for 30-60 seconds, depending on the amount of cornbread you're reheating.
If you want to add a little extra flavor to your reheated cornbread, try spreading a small amount of butter or honey on top before reheating. This will give the cornbread a delicious richness and a hint of sweetness that complements the savory flavors of the onion and broccoli.

Interesting Fact About Sweet Onion and Broccoli Cornbread

Broccoli cornbread is a delicious and nutritious alternative to traditional cornbread. It adds a unique flavor and texture to the dish, making it a great way to sneak in some extra vegetables into your diet.

Is Making Cornbread at Home Cost-Effective?

This sweet onion and broccoli cornbread recipe is quite cost-effective for a household. The main ingredients, sweet onion and broccoli, are affordable and readily available. The addition of cottage cheese and eggs enhances the nutritional value without significantly increasing the cost. The use of cornbread mix and margarine keeps the expenses in check. Overall, this recipe offers a good balance of cost and nutrition. On a scale of 1-10, I would rate it a solid 8 for its affordability and delicious outcome. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people is around $12-$15, making it a budget-friendly option.

Is This Cornbread Recipe Healthy or Not?

This recipe has both healthy and unhealthy elements. On the positive side, it includes nutritious ingredients like:

Sweet onion, which is rich in vitamins and antioxidants
Broccoli, a great source of fiber, vitamins, and minerals
Cottage cheese, providing protein and calcium
Eggs, offering high-quality protein and essential nutrients

However, there are some less healthy aspects to consider:

The use of a pre-packaged corn bread mix, which may contain added sugars, preservatives, and refined flour
The inclusion of margarine, a processed fat that may contain trans fats
The relatively high amount of salt (1 tsp) in the recipe

To make this recipe healthier, consider the following modifications:

Replace the corn bread mix with a homemade version using whole grain cornmeal, whole wheat flour, and minimal added sugar
Swap the margarine for a healthier fat source, such as olive oil or avocado oil
Reduce the amount of salt used, or opt for a low-sodium cottage cheese
Increase the proportion of vegetables in the recipe, such as adding more broccoli or incorporating other nutrient-dense veggies like bell peppers or carrots
Use a reduced-fat cottage cheese to lower the overall fat content without compromising protein

By making these adjustments, you can enhance the nutritional value of the dish while still enjoying the delicious combination of flavors. Experiment with different herbs and spices to add depth and complexity to the recipe without relying on excess salt. Additionally, serving the cornbread with a side salad or roasted vegetables can help balance the meal and provide even more essential nutrients.

Editor's Opinion on Sweet Onion and Broccoli Cornbread

This sweet onion and broccoli cornbread recipe is a unique and flavorful twist on traditional cornbread. The combination of sweet onion, broccoli, and cottage cheese adds a delightful savory element, while the cornbread mix provides a comforting and familiar base. The dish is easy to prepare and makes for a satisfying side or even a light meal. The texture is moist and the flavors are well-balanced. It's a great way to incorporate more vegetables into your diet while enjoying a classic comfort food. Overall, this recipe is a winner for those looking for a delicious and wholesome cornbread variation.

Enhance Your Sweet Onion Broccoli Cornbread Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Garlic Parmesan Roasted Asparagus: Tender asparagus spears roasted to perfection with a savory garlic parmesan topping.

Honey Glazed Carrots: Sweet and tender carrots glazed with honey for a delightful side dish.

Balsamic Grilled Vegetables: Assorted vegetables grilled to perfection and drizzled with a tangy balsamic glaze.

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Appetizers and Desserts That Complement Sweet Onion and Broccoli Cornbread

Appetizers:

Stuffed Mushrooms: These savory bites are filled with a delicious mixture of cream cheese, garlic, and herbs, then baked to perfection. They make the perfect appetizer for any gathering.

Spinach and Artichoke Dip: This creamy and cheesy dip is packed with flavor from the spinach, artichokes, and a blend of seasonings. Serve it with crispy tortilla chips or bread for a crowd-pleasing starter.

Desserts:

Chocolate Mousse: Indulge in a rich and creamy chocolate mousse, topped with a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of cocoa powder. This elegant dessert is perfect for a special occasion or a romantic dinner at home.

Apple Crisp: Savor the warm and comforting flavors of a homemade apple crisp, with tender baked apples and a crunchy oat topping. Serve it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for the ultimate dessert experience.

Why trust this Sweet Onion Broccoli Cornbread Recipe:

This recipe offers a delightful combination of flavors and textures, featuring the freshness of sweet onion and broccoli alongside the rich creaminess of cottage cheese. The incorporation of corn bread mix adds a comforting and familiar element, while the addition of eggs and margarine ensures a moist and tender texture. With a harmonious blend of wholesome ingredients, this dish promises to deliver a satisfying and flavorful experience, making it a trustworthy addition to any culinary repertoire.

Share your thoughts on the Sweet Onion Broccoli Cornbread Recipe in the Recipe Sharing forum and let us know how it turned out for you!

FAQ:

Can I use fresh broccoli instead of frozen?

Yes, you can definitely use fresh broccoli instead of frozen. Simply blanch the fresh broccoli in boiling water for a few minutes, then drain and chop it before adding it to the recipe.

Can I substitute the cottage cheese with another type of cheese?

Absolutely! You can substitute the cottage cheese with shredded cheddar, mozzarella, or any other cheese of your choice. Just keep in mind that the flavor and texture of the cornbread may vary slightly.

Can I use butter instead of margarine?

Yes, you can use butter instead of margarine. Just make sure to adjust the amount of salt in the recipe as some butters are salted.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time and reheat it later?

Yes, you can make this recipe ahead of time and reheat it later. Simply cover the baked cornbread with foil and refrigerate. When ready to serve, reheat it in the oven at 350°F until warmed through.

Can I add other ingredients to the cornbread mixture?

Absolutely! You can customize the cornbread mixture by adding ingredients such as cooked bacon, shredded cheese, or diced bell peppers to enhance the flavor and texture. Just be mindful of the additional moisture content and adjust the baking time if needed.