Broccoli Cauliflower Casserole is a comforting dish that combines the nutritious goodness of broccoli and cauliflower with creamy cheese and a crunchy topping. This casserole is not only hearty and satisfying but also a great way to sneak more vegetables into your family’s diet. The blend of flavors creates a delightful harmony that makes every bite enjoyable. Perfect as a side dish or a main course, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your household.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
You will love this broccoli cauliflower casserole recipe for its incredible flavor and ease of preparation. The combination of tender broccoli and cauliflower, creamy cheese sauce, and crispy topping creates a dish that is both indulgent and wholesome. It’s an ideal option for busy weeknights or potluck gatherings, as it can be prepared in advance and simply baked before serving. Plus, it’s a wonderful fit for families looking to incorporate more vegetables into their meals without sacrificing taste.
Tips and Tricks
To elevate this casserole, consider using a blend of cheeses for added depth of flavor. Cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan work beautifully together. For quicker prep, you can use pre-cut broccoli and cauliflower florets. If you like a bit of heat, adding a pinch of red pepper flakes to the cheese sauce can give it a nice kick. Lastly, don’t forget to season each layer as you go to ensure the casserole is bursting with flavor throughout.
Make Ahead Tips
This casserole is perfect for meal prepping! You can prepare the entire dish a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator before baking. Just cover it tightly with foil to keep it fresh. Additionally, you can pre-cook the broccoli and cauliflower and store them in an airtight container for up to three days before assembling the casserole. If you’re making it ahead for a larger gathering, it can also be frozen for up to three months. Just thaw it overnight in the fridge before baking.
Recipe Variations
Feel free to customize this casserole to suit your tastes! You can swap out the broccoli and cauliflower for other vegetables like Brussels sprouts or green beans. For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free breadcrumbs or omit the topping altogether. If you’re looking for a protein boost, add cooked chicken or bacon bits to the mixture. You can also experiment with different herbs and spices, such as thyme or garlic powder, to give it a unique twist.
How to Serve
Serve this broccoli cauliflower casserole hot out of the oven, garnished with fresh chopped parsley or chives for a pop of color. Pair it with a simple green salad or roasted meats for a complete meal. For a family-style presentation, serve it directly from the baking dish, allowing everyone to help themselves. A drizzle of balsamic glaze can also add a nice finishing touch.
Pairing Suggestions
This casserole pairs beautifully with a crisp white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay, which complements the creamy cheese. For a non-alcoholic option, consider serving sparkling water with a splash of lemon. On the side, a light arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette would balance the richness of the casserole. For dessert, a fruit tart or vanilla ice cream would make for a delightful finish.
How to Store
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. To freeze, allow the casserole to cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. It will keep in the freezer for up to three months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge and bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, about 20-30 minutes.
Equipment Needed
You will need a large mixing bowl for combining the ingredients, a 9×13-inch baking dish for the casserole, and a saucepan for making the cheese sauce. If you want to make the process even easier, a food processor can be helpful for chopping the vegetables. No special equipment is required, but a whisk and a spatula will make mixing and serving much easier.
Dietary Adaptations
To make this casserole vegan, substitute dairy cheese with a plant-based cheese alternative and use almond or oat milk in the cheese sauce. For a nut-free version, ensure the cheese alternative is free from nuts. If you need a gluten-free option, use gluten-free breadcrumbs and flour in the sauce. You can also use dairy-free yogurt to achieve creaminess without dairy.
Seasonal Adaptations
In spring and summer, consider adding fresh herbs like basil or dill for a refreshing touch. In the fall, you can incorporate roasted butternut squash for added sweetness and texture. During winter, try adding some sautéed mushrooms or even a handful of spinach to enhance the dish’s heartiness.
Recipe FAQs
Can I use frozen broccoli and cauliflower? Yes, you can use frozen vegetables, but be sure to thaw and drain them thoroughly to avoid excess moisture in the casserole.
How long do I bake this casserole? Bake for about 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden and the cheese is bubbly.
Can I make this casserole in advance? Absolutely! You can prepare it a day ahead and bake it right before serving.
What can I substitute for cheese? You can use vegan cheese or nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor without the dairy.
Broccoli Cauliflower Casserole
Broccoli Cauliflower Casserole is a comforting dish that combines the nutritious goodness of broccoli and cauliflower with creamy cheese and a crunchy topping.
Ingredients
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 2 cups cauliflower florets
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup milk (or non-dairy milk)
- 1/4 cup flour (or gluten-free flour)
- 1/4 cup butter (or dairy-free butter)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large pot of boiling salted water, blanch the broccoli and cauliflower for 3-4 minutes until just tender. Drain and set aside.
- In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for about 1 minute.
- Gradually add the milk, whisking continuously until the mixture thickens and bubbles.
- Stir in the garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Remove from heat and mix in the cheddar and mozzarella cheeses until melted.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the blanched vegetables with the cheese sauce. Stir until well coated.
- Pour the mixture into a greased 9x13 inch baking dish. Top with breadcrumbs and sprinkle with Parmesan cheese.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly.
- Allow to cool slightly before serving.
Nutrition Information
Yield
6Serving Size
1Amount Per Serving Calories 364Total Fat 21gSaturated Fat 12gTrans Fat 1gUnsaturated Fat 7gCholesterol 59mgSodium 660mgCarbohydrates 28gFiber 4gSugar 5gProtein 17g
Dinnerfocus.com, occasionally offers nutritional information for recipes contained on this site. This information is provided as a courtesy and is an estimate only. This information comes from online calculators. Although allchickenrecipes.com attempts to provide accurate nutritional information, these figures are only estimates.
Final Thoughts
This broccoli cauliflower casserole recipe is a fantastic way to enjoy vegetables in a delicious and satisfying form. With its creamy texture, cheesy flavor, and crispy topping, it’s sure to please everyone at the table. Whether you’re preparing it for a family dinner or a gathering with friends, this dish is a winner. Don’t hesitate to make it your own by experimenting with different ingredients and flavors. Happy cooking!
