Description
Delight your family with this creamy Broccoli Cheese Casserole made with plant-based cheese and wholesome ingredients for an easy, comforting meal. Tender broccoli florets are combined with a rich, flavorful plant-based cheese sauce that melts perfectly into every bite, creating a crowd-pleasing dish that’s both nutritious and satisfying.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 4 cups fresh broccoli florets
- 1 1/2 cups plant-based cheese (creamy melting variety)
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour (gluten-free if needed)
- 1 cup vegetable broth
- 1 cup milk alternative (almond, soy, or oat milk)
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (gluten-free if needed)
- 1 tablespoon vegetarian Worcestershire sauce (natural)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the Broccoli: Start by steaming or blanching the broccoli florets until just tender but still vibrant green, then drain thoroughly to avoid sogginess in the casserole.
- Make the Cheese Sauce: Sauté finely chopped onion and garlic in olive oil until soft. Sprinkle in the flour and cook for a minute, then gradually whisk in the milk alternative and vegetable broth. Stir continuously until the mixture thickens into a creamy sauce.
- Combine and Season: Add plant-based cheese into the sauce, stirring until melted and smooth. Season with vegetarian Worcestershire sauce (natural), salt, and pepper for balanced savory notes and umami depth.
- Assemble the Casserole: Mix the cooked broccoli gently into the cheese sauce, then transfer to a greased baking dish. Evenly sprinkle the breadcrumbs on top to form a golden crust.
- Bake to Perfection: Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 25-30 minutes or until the top is crisp and golden, and the casserole is bubbling around the edges.
Notes
- Avoid overcooking the broccoli during steaming to keep it from turning mushy.
- Stir continuously when making the cheese sauce to prevent lumps and ensure a smooth finish.
- Use a good melting plant-based cheese for ideal gooeyness and flavor.
- Press breadcrumbs lightly on top to help them brown evenly and stay crisp.
- Allow the casserole to rest for 5 minutes after baking for easier serving and better flavor melding.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Appetizers
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 220
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 350mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: broccoli casserole, plant-based cheese, vegan casserole, gluten-free casserole, comforting side dish
