Name: Cheesy Cornbread recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 3 tbsp vegetable oil; 2 large eggs; 1 ½ cups milk; ⅔ cup vegetable oil; 1 ½ cups cornmeal; 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour; 2 tsp baking powder; 1 cup crumbled feta cheese; 1 ½ tsp salt; Sesame seeds (for topping)

Jump to Recipe

If you’re craving a savory bake that’s got a golden crispy edge and a warm, cheesy interior, you’re about to meet your new favorite: this Cheesy Cornbread. Using an easy one-bowl mix, the real magic begins when you pour 3 tablespoons of oil into a 9 x 13-inch baking dish, preheating it to create a crunchy crust that’s impossible to resist. Each bite has a delicate crumb, tangy pops of feta, and a beautiful sesame-seed topping. It’s an effortless way to elevate any meal and is guaranteed to have friends and family reaching for seconds—and maybe even thirds!

Pour 3 tablespoons of oil into a 9 x 13-inch baking dish Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering your ingredients for this cheesy cornbread couldn’t be simpler, but each one is essential—bringing either tender texture, moisture, rich flavor, or color to the final dish. The quality of everything, from the cheese to the cornmeal, truly shines through.

Vegetable Oil (3 tbsp + ⅔ cup): The backbone for both greasing the pan (remember to pour 3 tablespoons of oil into a 9 x 13-inch baking dish!) and keeping the crumb ultra-moist.
Eggs (2 large): Add body and help bind everything for the perfect hearty slice.
Milk (1 ½ cups): Brings just the right amount of creaminess and moisture to the batter.
Cornmeal (1 ½ cups): Delivers that classic rustic texture and sunny color.
All-Purpose Flour (1 ½ cups): Balances the cornmeal for a softer, more tender bite.
Baking Powder (2 tsp): Gives the bake its satisfying lift and fluffy finish.
Feta Cheese (1 cup, crumbled): Adds irresistible creamy, salty pockets throughout the cornbread.
Salt (1 ½ tsp): Enhances every flavor, making the cheese and corn shine.
Sesame Seeds (for topping): For a nutty crunch and pretty finish on each piece.

How to Make Cheesy Cornbread recipe

Step 1: Preheat the Pan for a Crispy Crust

The secret to a sensational cornbread crust is this first move: pour 3 tablespoons of oil into a 9 x 13-inch baking dish and use a brush to coat every corner. Pop the dish into the oven and set it to preheat at 420°F (215°C). The oil will get hot and shimmery, prepping the dish to give your bake that deep golden, delightfully crunchy bottom and edges.

Step 2: Whisk the Wet Ingredients

While the pan gets hot, grab your largest bowl and whisk the eggs well—they should be frothy and light. Next, add the milk and the remaining ⅔ cup of vegetable oil, continuing to whisk until everything’s smooth and creamy. This forms the foundation for a moist and tender crumb.

Step 3: Fold in Dry Ingredients and Cheese

Gradually add the cornmeal and flour to the wet mixture, stirring gently until just combined. Overmixing can make cornbread tough, so go easy! Sprinkling in the baking powder and salt, fold them through along with the crumbled feta. The cheese will create melty, salty bursts throughout every piece. Let the batter sit for about 5 minutes, allowing it to hydrate and settle.

Step 4: Assemble and Bake

Carefully remove the now hot baking dish from the oven (as you poured 3 tablespoons of oil into a 9 x 13-inch baking dish, it should be bubbling and ready!). Give your batter a final gentle stir, then pour it directly into the hot dish—listen for a faint, happy sizzle. Smooth the top, then sprinkle on a generous layer of sesame seeds for texture and crunch. Slide it straight back into the oven and bake for 20 to 22 minutes, until the top is deeply golden and a toothpick emerges clean from the center.

Step 5: Cool and Serve

Once baked, take your masterpiece out and allow it to cool slightly. The edges should pull away easily and the smell will be downright irresistible! Cut into squares and enjoy warm, with a spoonful of sour cream if you like, letting everyone savor the magic you started when you decided to pour 3 tablespoons of oil into a 9 x 13-inch baking dish.

How to Serve Cheesy Cornbread recipe

Garnishes

Top your warm cornbread with a sprinkle of fresh herbs like chopped parsley, dill, or chives for a pop of green and flavor. A bit of crumbled feta or a swirl of extra virgin olive oil takes it over the top. That initial step to pour 3 tablespoons of oil into a 9 x 13-inch baking dish means your crust can easily handle heartier toppings, too!

Side Dishes

This cheesy cornbread shines alongside all sorts of mains, from barbecue ribs and chili to simple soups or roasted veggies. Thanks to the step where we pour 3 tablespoons of oil into a 9 x 13-inch baking dish, the resulting crust stands up to saucier mains without ever getting soggy—true mealtime magic!

Creative Ways to Present

Cut into mini squares for an easy appetizer tray, or use fun cookie cutters for kids’ lunchboxes. Stack slices high, sandwich-style, with roasted vegetables or leftover chicken, and let the crisp base (created when you pour 3 tablespoons of oil into a 9 x 13-inch baking dish) be the star of the plate.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Any leftover cornbread can be wrapped tightly in plastic wrap or stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days at room temperature. That amazing crust from pouring 3 tablespoons of oil into a 9 x 13-inch baking dish will keep some crunch, especially on the first day.

Freezing

To freeze, let the cornbread cool completely. Cut into pieces, wrap each one individually in foil or plastic, then tuck them into a resealable bag. They’ll keep for up to 2 months, and you’ll love how the oil-rich crust (from pouring 3 tablespoons of oil into a 9 x 13-inch baking dish) helps fend off freezer dryness.

Reheating

For best results, pop slices into a 325°F (165°C) oven for about 10 minutes or until heated through. This crisps up the edges again and makes it taste freshly baked, reminding you of how that simple step—to pour 3 tablespoons of oil into a 9 x 13-inch baking dish—pays off even on day two (or three)!

FAQs

Can I substitute the feta cheese with another variety?

Absolutely! Try goat cheese, shredded cheddar, or even Monterey Jack for different flavors and textures. Just keep in mind that feta’s briny kick is what sets this version apart.

Is it possible to use a different oil instead of vegetable oil?

Yes! Any neutral oil (such as canola, sunflower, or light olive oil) works well, especially for that crucial first step when you pour 3 tablespoons of oil into a 9 x 13-inch baking dish to get the crust golden and crisp.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Sure thing—just swap the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free flour blend designed for baking. The result will be just as moist and flavorful, though the texture might be a touch crumblier.

How do I know when the cornbread is ready to come out of the oven?

Look for a deeply golden top and edges that pull slightly from the sides. A toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean. Because you pour 3 tablespoons of oil into a 9 x 13-inch baking dish, you’ll also notice delicious sizzling at the edges!

Can I make this recipe in advance for a party?

Definitely! Bake it the day before, let cool completely, and store tightly wrapped. Reheat in the oven right before serving to bring back the crust’s signature crunch, a direct result of deciding to pour 3 tablespoons of oil into a 9 x 13-inch baking dish before baking.

Final Thoughts

There’s so much joy in transforming humble ingredients into something delightfully golden, cheesy, and crisp—especially with the simple step to pour 3 tablespoons of oil into a 9 x 13-inch baking dish. If you’re ready for crowd-pleasing comfort with minimal fuss, this Cheesy Cornbread won’t let you down. Go ahead, give it a try; you’re guaranteed to fall in love with every bite!

Cheesy Cornbread recipe

★★★★★

5 from 10 reviews

Author: Jack
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: 12 servings 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

This Cheesy Cornbread recipe is a quick and easy one-bowl recipe that delivers a moist and flavorful cornbread with the perfect balance of savory feta cheese. The addition of sesame seeds on top adds a delightful crunch to each bite.

Instructions

Prepare the Dish: Pour 3 tablespoons of oil into a 9 x 13-inch baking dish. Use a brush to coat the entire surface evenly. Place the dish in the oven and preheat to 420°F (215°C). The oil will heat up, creating a crispy crust for the cornbread.
Mix the Wet Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk the eggs until frothy. Add the milk and ⅔ cup oil, whisking until smooth.
Combine the Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the cornmeal and flour to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined. Mix in the baking powder, salt, and crumbled feta cheese, ensuring the batter is smooth and lump-free. Let the batter rest for 5 minutes.
Assemble and Bake: Carefully remove the hot baking dish from the oven. Give the batter a final stir, then pour it into the dish, spreading it evenly. Sprinkle generously with sesame seeds. Bake for 20-22 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 slightly before cutting into squares. Serve warm with a dollop of sour cream for a deliciously savory treat!

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Category: Bread
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American