Let me share one of my absolute favorite comfort bakes: the Savory Jiffy Cornbread with Broccoli and Cheddar Recipe. This delightful twist on classic cornbread brings together the sweet, golden crumb of Jiffy mix with nutritious green broccoli and sharp, melty cheddar cheese. The result is a moist, flavorful dish that’s as versatile as it is delicious—a perfect side for weeknight dinners, potlucks, or whenever you need a hearty, quick bread fix that feels homemade but comes together in a flash.
Ingredients You’ll Need
With just a handful of everyday ingredients, you can whip up this savory masterpiece that balances taste, texture, and vibrant color. Each component plays a crucial role, whether it’s lifting the batter, adding bursts of flavor, or creating that irresistible golden crust.
- Jiffy Corn Muffin Mix: The base of the recipe providing that classic cornbread sweetness and texture.
- Large eggs: They bring structure and moisture to bind everything perfectly.
- Milk: Adds creaminess and helps create a tender crumb.
- Chopped broccoli: Fresh or frozen, it adds a lovely green crunch and an extra boost of nutrition.
- Shredded cheddar cheese (optional): Melts into pockets of savory goodness that complement the corn’s natural sweetness.
- Finely chopped onion (optional): Gives a subtle hint of sweetness and depth.
- Garlic powder: Infuses a mellow garlicky warmth without overpowering.
- Salt and pepper: Essential seasonings that bring all the flavors into harmony.
How to Make Savory Jiffy Cornbread with Broccoli and Cheddar Recipe
Step 1: Get Your Oven and Pan Ready
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Grease an 8×8-inch baking dish or line it with parchment paper to ensure your cornbread doesn’t stick and comes out beautifully. This little prep sets the stage for a perfectly baked dish.
Step 2: Prepare the Broccoli
If you’re using fresh broccoli, steam it lightly for 2 to 3 minutes until it’s just tender but still bright green. For frozen broccoli, thaw it completely and pat it dry to avoid extra moisture that could make the batter soggy. This step is key to maintaining that fresh flavor and perfect texture.
Step 3: Whisk the Eggs and Milk
In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together your eggs and milk until smooth and slightly frothy. This step ensures your cornbread will be moist and airy, creating the perfect canvas for all the delicious add-ins.
Step 4: Mix in the Jiffy Corn Muffin Mix
Gently stir the Jiffy Corn Muffin Mix into the egg and milk mixture until just combined. Be careful not to overmix—to keep your cornbread tender and light, a few lumps are totally fine here.
Step 5: Fold in Broccoli, Cheese, and Seasonings
Now for the fun part: stir in your prepared broccoli, shredded cheddar cheese (if using), chopped onion, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. This is where your cornbread really comes alive with flavor and bright pops of color.
Step 6: Transfer and Smooth the Batter
Pour your batter into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly with a spatula or the back of a spoon. A smooth, even surface helps everything bake uniformly and develop that gorgeous golden crust.
Step 7: Bake to Golden Perfection
Bake the cornbread for 20 to 25 minutes or until the top turns golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The aroma wafting from the oven at this stage is simply irresistible!
Step 8: Cool and Serve
Once baked, let your Savory Jiffy Cornbread with Broccoli and Cheddar Recipe cool for at least 5 minutes before slicing. This resting time helps it set perfectly for clean cuts and the best texture.
How to Serve Savory Jiffy Cornbread with Broccoli and Cheddar Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of fresh chopped herbs like parsley or chives adds an inviting burst of color and herbaceous freshness on top. If you love a little extra punch, a drizzle of honey butter or a dollop of sour cream pairs beautifully with the savory flavors.
Side Dishes
This cornbread makes an excellent companion to soups, chili, or hearty stews—especially those with a southwestern or barbecue flair. It also complements roasted or grilled meats, offering a soft, cheesy contrast.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving this cornbread warm with a side of homemade chili or topping it with a fried egg and avocado slices for a comforting brunch twist. You can also cut it into bite-sized squares for a tasty appetizer at your next gathering.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep any leftover cornbread stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days, or refrigerate for up to a week. Wrapping it tightly helps maintain moisture and flavor so nothing goes to waste.
Freezing
You can freeze the cornbread for longer storage by wrapping individual slices or the entire loaf well in plastic wrap and then foil. Frozen cornbread stays delicious for up to three months—just thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
For the best taste and texture, warm your cornbread slices in a toaster oven or conventional oven until hot and slightly crisp on the edges. Microwaving is quicker but might soften the crust.
FAQs
Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw it completely and pat dry to avoid excess moisture, which could affect the cornbread’s texture. Steaming fresh broccoli quickly works just as well.
Is the cheddar cheese optional in this recipe?
Yes, adding cheddar cheese is optional but highly recommended for that rich, savory depth. If you prefer a milder flavor or want it dairy-free, feel free to leave it out.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
The Jiffy Corn Muffin Mix contains wheat flour, so it’s not gluten-free as is. However, you can experiment with gluten-free corn muffin mixes or make your own to keep the essence while accommodating gluten sensitivities.
What can I substitute for milk?
If you’re out of regular milk, unsweetened plant-based milk such as almond or oat milk works great without altering the flavor too much.
How long does this cornbread stay fresh?
When stored properly in an airtight container, it stays fresh for about 2 days at room temperature, or up to a week if refrigerated. Just reheat gently for a fresh-baked feel.
Final Thoughts
There’s just something so comforting about the Savory Jiffy Cornbread with Broccoli and Cheddar Recipe that makes it a keeper in my kitchen. Its blend of sweet corn, vibrant broccoli, and melty cheddar is pure magic, and the speedy prep means you can enjoy it any day of the week. Give this recipe a try—you might just find your new favorite side or snack that everyone will ask for again and again!
Print
Savory Jiffy Cornbread with Broccoli and Cheddar Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 9 servings
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Savory Jiffy Mix Cornbread with a Broccoli Twist is a quick and easy baked dish that combines classic cornbread flavors with the nutritious addition of broccoli. Perfect as a side for dinners or a savory snack, this recipe enhances the traditional Jiffy Corn Muffin Mix with vegetables and optional cheese and onion for extra flavor and texture.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 box Jiffy Corn Muffin Mix
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 cup chopped broccoli (fresh or frozen)
Optional Add-ins
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
Seasonings
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- Pinch of salt and pepper
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and prepare an 8×8-inch baking dish by greasing it or lining it with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- Prepare Broccoli: If using fresh broccoli, steam it for 2–3 minutes until just tender. If using frozen broccoli, thaw completely and pat dry to remove excess moisture.
- Mix Eggs and Milk: In a medium bowl, whisk together the two large eggs and half a cup of milk until well combined.
- Add Corn Muffin Mix: Gently stir in the Jiffy Corn Muffin Mix into the egg and milk mixture until just combined, being careful not to overmix for a tender texture.
- Incorporate Add-ins and Seasoning: Fold the prepared broccoli, shredded cheddar cheese (if using), finely chopped onion (if using), garlic powder, salt, and pepper into the batter evenly.
- Pour and Smooth: Pour the batter into your prepared baking dish and smooth the top with a spatula for an even bake.
- Bake: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20–25 minutes or until the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Cool and Serve: Allow the cornbread to cool for at least 5 minutes before slicing to help it set and serve warm.
Notes
- Steaming broccoli before folding into the batter ensures it’s tender and limits excess moisture that could alter texture.
- Optional cheese and onions add flavor but can be omitted for a simpler cornbread.
- Use parchment paper for easy cleanup and to prevent sticking in the baking dish.
- Serve warm with butter or alongside soups, stews, or BBQ dishes.
