Description
Creamed Broccoli Casserole is a creamy, comforting, and easy-to-make dinner featuring tender broccoli, smoky turkey bacon, and melted plant-based cheese. This hearty casserole combines simple ingredients into a deliciously satisfying dish perfect for weeknights, potlucks, or gatherings. With a creamy sauce thickened by a natural gelling agent and a smoky, savory flavor, it is a versatile and nourishing meal option that can be customized to suit different tastes and dietary preferences.
Ingredients
Scale
Vegetables
- 4 cups fresh broccoli florets, bite-sized
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Protein and Cheese
- 6 slices smoked turkey bacon
- 1 1/2 cups plant-based cheese, shredded or sliced
Sauce
- 2 cups plant-based milk
- 2 tablespoons vegetarian Worcestershire sauce (natural)
- 1 teaspoon natural gelling agent (e.g., agar, pectin)
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
Optional Variations
- Toasted breadcrumbs or chopped nuts for topping
- Additional vegetables like cauliflower florets or chopped carrots
- Pinch of crushed red pepper flakes or smoked paprika for spice
Instructions
- Prepare the Broccoli: Cut fresh broccoli into bite-sized florets. Blanch the broccoli in boiling water for about 2 minutes, then drain and rinse under cold water to preserve its bright color and crisp-tender texture.
- Cook the Smoked Turkey Bacon: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the smoked turkey bacon until crisp. Remove and place on paper towels to drain excess fat. Once cooled, chop into small pieces for the casserole.
- Sauté Aromatics and Make Sauce: In the same skillet, add the chopped onions and garlic. Cook until translucent and fragrant. Pour in plant-based milk and vegetarian Worcestershire sauce (natural). Gradually whisk in the natural gelling agent to thicken the sauce, stirring continuously. Season with salt, pepper, and nutmeg.
- Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, gently combine the blanched broccoli, chopped smoked turkey bacon, plant-based cheese, and the creamy sauce. Mix carefully to evenly coat without breaking the broccoli.
- Bake to Perfection: Transfer the mixture to a greased casserole dish. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 25-30 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and golden on top with melted plant-based cheese.
Notes
- Do not overcook broccoli during blanching to keep a firm texture.
- Choose high-quality plant-based cheese that melts well for best results.
- Add the natural gelling agent little by little when making the sauce to avoid lumps.
- The casserole can be assembled ahead and refrigerated for up to one day before baking.
- This recipe yields 4-6 servings, suitable as a main or side dish.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 2 months.
- Reheat in the oven at 325°F (160°C) for about 15-20 minutes to maintain texture and creaminess.
- Frozen broccoli can be used after thawing and draining excess moisture.
- Vegetarian Worcestershire sauce (natural) and plant-based cheese should be checked for gluten-free options if needed.
- To make vegan, replace smoked turkey bacon with smoked tempeh or mushrooms.
- Agar works well as the natural gelling agent for a silky sauce texture.
- Enhance flavor with sautéd mushrooms, caramelized onions, or smoked paprika.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Appetizers
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 210
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 420mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 10g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
Keywords: creamed broccoli casserole, plant-based cheese casserole, smoky turkey bacon casserole, creamy broccoli bake, gluten free casserole, easy dinner recipes, vegetarian casserole option
