Description
Cheesy Broccoli Cauliflower Casserole is a comforting and vibrant plant-based dish featuring creamy (plant-based) cheese blended with tender broccoli and cauliflower florets. Enhanced with aromatic sautéed onion and garlic, natural gelling agent, and natural seasonings, this casserole delivers a perfect balance of textures and flavors. Ideal for family meals or special occasions, it is simple to prepare, adaptable, and deliciously wholesome.
Ingredients
Scale
Vegetables
- 2 cups broccoli florets, fresh or lightly steamed
- 2 cups cauliflower florets, fresh or lightly steamed
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Sauce Ingredients
- 1 cup creamy (plant-based) cheese
- 1 cup plant-based milk
- 1 tablespoon vegetarian Worcestershire sauce (natural)
- 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar (natural)
- 1 tablespoon natural gelling agent
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
Topping (Optional)
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs or toasted nuts
Instructions
- Prep Your Veggies: Wash and cut the broccoli and cauliflower into bite-sized florets. Lightly steam or blanch them until tender yet still vibrant and slightly crisp. Set aside.
- Make the Creamy Sauce: In a pan, sauté finely chopped onion and minced garlic in a little oil until fragrant and golden. In a separate bowl, whisk together the creamy (plant-based) cheese, plant-based milk, vegetarian Worcestershire sauce (natural), apple cider vinegar (natural), salt, pepper, paprika, and natural gelling agent until smooth and well combined.
- Combine Everything: Toss the steamed broccoli and cauliflower with the creamy sauce until every floret is evenly coated. Transfer the mixture into a baking dish and smooth the top. Sprinkle breadcrumbs or toasted nuts if using.
- Bake to Perfection: Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 25-30 minutes until bubbling and the topping is golden brown. Allow to rest a few minutes before serving to let the natural gelling agent set the casserole’s texture.
Notes
- Don’t overcook the broccoli and cauliflower before baking to maintain texture and color.
- Use creamy (plant-based) cheeses with good meltability for best results.
- Ensure the sauce is slightly thick to avoid a watery casserole.
- Taste and adjust seasoning before combining with vegetables.
- For a crunchy topping, add breadcrumbs or nuts halfway through baking for even toasting.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Appetizers
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Vegetarian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 320mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: broccoli, cauliflower, casserole, plant-based cheese, creamy casserole, vegetarian casserole, gluten free casserole, vegetable casserole, healthy casserole
