A Little Different Broccoli Cornbread

To my surprise, I just discovered that our favorite broccoli cornbread recipe isn't among the dozens posted on 'zaar. I share it with one warning: It's not a healthy dish to begin with, and this version is more sinful than most. It sure is yummy, though! We particularly enjoy this in the summertime as an accompaniment to a vegetable dinner of turnip greens, black-eyed peas, squash and slices of homegrown tomatoes. Given that menu, the Calorie and Cholesterol Police never even notice. :) The original recipe specifies a 9"x13" baking dish. However, I discovered by accident that it's really best when made in a dish that's 7"x11". If you happen to have that odd size, do use it.

• Ready In: 55 mins
• Serves: 9-12
• Yields: 1 pan

Ingredients

• 1  cup butter (most recipes only call for 1/2 cup, so I'm sure you could cut it down if that much fat makes you que) or 1  cup margarine (most recipes only call for 1, so I'm sure you could cut it down if that much fat makes you queasy)
• 2 (8 1/2ounce) packages  Jiffy corn muffin mix
• 1 (10 ounce) package  frozen chopped broccoli, thawed
• 1  small onion, chopped
• 10  ounces ricotta cheese
• 4  eggs
•  cheddar cheese, grated, to taste (can use mild, medium, sharp or a combo)

Directions

1. Preheat oven to 375 degrees F.
2. Place stick(s) of butter or margarine in casserole dish; heat in oven just until melted.
3. Remove dish from oven and carefully tilt so that sides are coated. (Wear protective gloves and be careful!).
4. In a large mixing bowl, combine cornbread mix, broccoli, onion, ricotta and eggs; stir well to mix.
5. Add approximately 1/2 cup grated cheese, stirring well again.
6. Pour mixture into buttered baking dish, using a spatula to distributed evenly; bake for 30 minutes.
7. Remove from oven and sprinkle with additional cheese, to taste; return to oven for 10-15 minutes, until cornbread is done and cheese has melted.
8. Cut into squares and serve immediately.