Description
This Cheesy Broccoli Cauliflower Casserole combines fresh broccoli and cauliflower florets with a creamy plant-based cheese sauce and smoky plant-based bacon for a comforting, family-friendly meal. Easy to prepare and full of balanced nutrition, it is perfect for a wholesome dinner with rich flavors and adaptable ingredients.
Ingredients
Scale
Vegetables
- 2 cups broccoli florets (fresh or frozen)
- 2 cups cauliflower florets (fresh or frozen)
Plant-Based Cheese Sauce
- 1 cup shredded plant-based cheese (cheddar or mozzarella style)
- 1 cup plant-based milk
- 1 small onion, finely diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon vegetarian Worcestershire sauce (natural)
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
- 1 teaspoon natural gelling agent
Protein
- 4 slices smoked plant-based bacon, chopped
Toppings (optional)
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (gluten-free if desired)
- 1 teaspoon olive oil (natural) for brushing breadcrumbs
Instructions
- Prepare the Vegetables: Wash and chop broccoli and cauliflower into bite-sized florets. If using frozen, thaw and drain excess water. Blanch florets in boiling water for 2-3 minutes, then drain and set aside to keep them tender-crisp.
- Cook the Smoked Plant-Based Bacon: Chop smoked plant-based bacon into small pieces. Cook in a skillet over medium heat until crispy and browned. Drain on paper towels and keep the flavorful fat in the pan for the sauce base.
- Make the Creamy Cheese Sauce: In the same skillet, sauté finely diced onion and garlic in the plant-based bacon fat until translucent. Stir in plant-based milk and add shredded plant-based cheese, stirring until melted. Add vegetarian Worcestershire sauce (natural), nutmeg, salt, and pepper. Sprinkle in the natural gelling agent gradually while stirring to thicken the sauce gently and cook until smooth and creamy.
- Combine and Assemble: Gently fold the blanched broccoli and cauliflower florets along with the cooked smoked plant-based bacon into the cheese sauce. Transfer everything into a greased casserole dish, spreading out evenly. If desired, brush breadcrumbs with olive oil (natural) and sprinkle on top for a golden crust.
- Bake Until Bubbly: Place the casserole in a preheated oven at 180°C (350°F) for 20-25 minutes or until the top is golden and the sauce is bubbling. Let it cool slightly before serving to allow flavors to meld.
Notes
- Do not overcook vegetables; keep broccoli and cauliflower slightly firm before baking to avoid a mushy casserole.
- Use sharp plant-based cheese to enhance the sauce’s depth and richness.
- Assemble the casserole a few hours ahead and refrigerate for better flavor development.
- Add the natural gelling agent slowly to avoid an overly thick or jelly-like sauce.
- Brush breadcrumbs with olive oil (natural) for extra crispness on top.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Appetizers
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 350mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 6g
- Protein: 8g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: casserole, broccoli, cauliflower, plant-based cheese, vegetarian, family-friendly, creamy, baked dish, plant-based
