Cheesy Zucchini Cornbread Muffins

Name: Cheesy Zucchini Cornbread Muffins
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 12 muffins
Ingredients: 1 cup grated zucchini; 1 cup cornmeal; 1 cup all-purpose flour; 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or your choice); 1/4 cup sugar; 1 tablespoon baking powder; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/4 teaspoon black pepper; 1 cup milk; 1/4 cup vegetable oil; 2 large eggs

Highlighted under: Wholesome & Fresh Recipes

These Cheesy Zucchini Cornbread Muffins are a delightful blend of flavors and textures, perfect for any occasion.

Created by

Emma

Last updated on 2025-12-20T13:45:52.017Z

These muffins are a perfect way to enjoy the flavors of summer zucchini in a delicious, cheesy form. They make a great side dish or snack, and are sure to please both kids and adults alike!

        Why You'll Love These Muffins
        Savory cheese paired with the subtle sweetness of cornbread
Moist texture from fresh zucchini
Easy to make and perfect for meal prep

      

The Perfect Snack or Side Dish

Cheesy Zucchini Cornbread Muffins are not just a treat; they serve as a versatile snack or side dish for a variety of meals. Their delightful blend of cornbread and cheese makes them a fantastic pairing with soups, salads, or even as a stand-alone snack. Whether you're hosting a brunch or looking for a quick bite to eat, these muffins will surely impress your guests and family alike.

These muffins can also be enjoyed at any time of the day. Serve them warm with a pat of butter for breakfast, or pack them in lunchboxes for a nutritious midday snack. Their moist texture and cheesy flavor make them appealing to both kids and adults, ensuring they won't last long once you take them out of the oven.

Zucchini: A Nutritional Powerhouse

Incorporating zucchini into your diet can significantly boost your nutritional intake. This versatile vegetable is low in calories yet high in essential vitamins and minerals, particularly vitamin C and potassium. By adding grated zucchini to these muffins, you not only enhance their moisture and flavor but also increase their health benefits. Zucchini is known for its antioxidant properties, which can help combat free radicals in the body.

Moreover, zucchini is an excellent source of dietary fiber, which aids digestion and promotes a feeling of fullness. This makes these muffins not just delicious but also a smart choice for those looking to maintain a balanced diet. Enjoying these muffins means you can indulge without the guilt, as they contribute positively to your overall health.

Meal Prep Made Easy

These Cheesy Zucchini Cornbread Muffins are perfect for meal prepping. They can be made in advance and stored for busy days when you need a quick and satisfying meal. Simply bake a batch at the beginning of the week, and you’ll have a delicious snack or side dish ready to go. They can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week or frozen for longer storage.

To reheat, just pop them in the microwave for a few seconds or warm them in the oven. This makes them an ideal option for anyone juggling a busy schedule. With their easy preparation and great storage capabilities, these muffins can be a staple in your weekly meal plan.

Ingredients

For the Muffins

1 cup grated zucchini
1 cup cornmeal
1 cup all-purpose flour
1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or your choice)
1/4 cup sugar
1 tablespoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1 cup milk
1/4 cup vegetable oil
2 large eggs

Mix and match your favorite cheeses for a unique flavor!

Instructions

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and prepare a muffin tin by greasing it or lining with muffin liners.

Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine cornmeal, flour, sugar, baking powder, salt, and black pepper.

Combine Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together milk, vegetable oil, and eggs until well blended.

Combine Mixtures

Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and mix until just combined. Fold in the grated zucchini and shredded cheese.

Fill Muffin Tin

Divide the batter evenly into the prepared muffin tin, filling each cup about 2/3 full.

Bake

Bake for 20-25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let cool before serving.

Enjoy your cheesy muffins warm or at room temperature!

Tips for Perfect Muffins

To achieve the best texture for your Cheesy Zucchini Cornbread Muffins, be careful not to overmix the batter. Gently folding in the wet ingredients ensures that the muffins remain light and fluffy. Additionally, using freshly grated zucchini will provide the best moisture without excess liquid, which is crucial for the right consistency.

Another tip is to let the muffins cool in the tin for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. This helps them set properly and retain their shape, resulting in perfectly baked muffins every time.

Variations to Try

Feel free to get creative with these muffins! You can experiment with different types of cheese, such as pepper jack for a spicy kick or feta for a Mediterranean twist. Adding herbs like chives or thyme can elevate the flavor profile even further, bringing a fresh element to each bite.

You can also mix in other vegetables, such as finely chopped bell peppers or corn kernels, to add more texture and taste. The versatility of this recipe allows you to customize it to suit your preferences or to use up any leftovers in your fridge.

Serving Suggestions

These muffins are delicious on their own, but they can also be enhanced with various toppings. Try serving them with a dollop of sour cream or a drizzle of honey for a sweet-savory combination. They also pair wonderfully with salsa or pico de gallo for a Mexican-inspired flair.

For a heartier meal, consider serving the muffins alongside a fresh salad or grilled protein. This makes for a balanced meal that is not only tasty but also visually appealing. The options are endless, so let your creativity shine when it comes to serving these delightful muffins!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen zucchini?

Yes, just make sure to thaw and drain the excess moisture before using.

→ How do I store leftover muffins?

Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for longer freshness.

→ Can I substitute the cheese?

Absolutely! Feel free to use any cheese you like, such as mozzarella or pepper jack.

→ Are these muffins suitable for freezing?

Yes, they freeze well. Just wrap them tightly and store in a freezer-safe container.