Mediterranean Broccoli Cheese Cornbread
Mediterranean Broccoli Cheese Cornbread is a comforting, savory bake that blends the rustic warmth of classic cornbread with fresh Mediterranean-inspired ingredients. It is moist, tender, and packed with flavor, making it perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or casual gatherings. Sweet cornmeal forms the base, while olive oil, yogurt, broccoli, and cheese give it richness without heaviness. The result is a cornbread that feels familiar yet elevated, hearty enough to stand on its own and versatile enough to pair with soups, salads, or grilled dishes. This recipe is easy to prepare, forgiving for beginners, and reliable every time.
Prep time: 15 minutes
Baking time: 30–35 minutes
Total time: About 50 minutes
Servings: 9 squares
Ingredients
1 cup yellow cornmeal
1 cup all-purpose flour
1 tablespoon baking powder
½ teaspoon baking soda
1 teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon dried oregano or thyme
2 large eggs
¾ cup plain Greek yogurt
½ cup milk
⅓ cup extra virgin olive oil
1 tablespoon honey or sugar
1½ cups small broccoli florets, lightly steamed and chopped
1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or a blend)
¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
Preheat the oven to 190°C (375°F) and grease or line an 8-inch square baking dish.
Lightly steam the broccoli for 2 to 3 minutes until just tender, then chop and set aside to cool.
In a large bowl, whisk together cornmeal, flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, pepper, and dried herbs.
In another bowl, beat the eggs until smooth.
Add Greek yogurt, milk, olive oil, and honey to the eggs and whisk until fully combined.
Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients.
Stir gently until just combined, taking care not to overmix.
Fold in chopped broccoli, shredded cheese, and Parmesan evenly through the batter.
Spread the batter into the prepared baking dish and smooth the top.
Bake for 30 to 35 minutes, until golden and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Tips
Use fine or medium-grind cornmeal for a softer texture.
Do not overmix the batter, as this can make the cornbread dense.
Steam broccoli lightly to keep it bright green and avoid excess moisture.
Let steamed broccoli cool before adding to prevent melting the cheese early.
Full-fat Greek yogurt gives the best moisture and flavor.
Choose a good-quality olive oil since it affects the final taste.
Shred cheese yourself for better melting and texture.
Taste the batter seasoning before baking and adjust salt if needed.
Let the cornbread rest for 10 minutes before slicing.
Serve warm for the best flavor and crumb.
Variations
Greek-Inspired: Add crumbled feta and chopped olives for a bold twist.
Spicy Mediterranean: Add chili flakes or diced jalapeños.
Whole Wheat Version: Replace half the flour with whole wheat flour.
Garlic Herb: Add minced garlic and fresh herbs like parsley or dill.
Corn and Broccoli: Fold in ½ cup sweet corn kernels.
Cheesy Deluxe: Add an extra ½ cup cheese for a richer loaf.
Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free flour blend in place of all-purpose flour.
Vegan Option: Use flax eggs, plant yogurt, and dairy-free cheese.
Skillet Cornbread: Bake in a preheated cast-iron skillet for crisp edges.
Sun-Dried Tomato: Add chopped sun-dried tomatoes for Mediterranean depth.
Q&A
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, it keeps well for up to two days at room temperature when wrapped.
Can I freeze it?
Yes, freeze sliced portions for up to one month.
Why is my cornbread dry?
Overbaking or too much flour can cause dryness.
Can I use frozen broccoli?
Yes, thaw and drain it well before using.
Is this cornbread sweet?
It is lightly sweet, with savory balance.
What cheese works best?
Cheddar and mozzarella melt beautifully, while Parmesan adds depth.
Can I bake this in a loaf pan?
Yes, adjust baking time to about 40 minutes.
Does it pair well with soups?
Yes, it pairs especially well with tomato or lentil soups.
How do I reheat leftovers?
Warm gently in the oven or microwave.
Is this kid-friendly?
Yes, the mild flavors make it appealing for children.
Nutrition
(Approximate per Serving)
Calories: 240–270
Protein: 9–11 g
Carbohydrates: 28–32 g
Fat: 10–12 g
Fiber: 2–3 g
Values vary depending on cheese and yogurt used.
Conclusion
Mediterranean Broccoli Cheese Cornbread is a wonderful example of how simple ingredients can come together to create something both comforting and fresh. With its moist crumb, savory cheese, and bursts of tender broccoli, it fits effortlessly into everyday meals or special gatherings. Easy to customize and dependable every time, this cornbread is a recipe you will return to whenever you want warmth, flavor, and a touch of Mediterranean charm on the table.