Description

Creamed Broccoli Casserole combines tender broccoli florets with a rich, creamy plant-based cheese sauce and smoky turkey bacon for a comforting and flavorful meal. This easy-to-make dish features aromatic onions and garlic, a light vegetable broth base, and seasoning balanced by vegetarian Worcestershire sauce (natural). It bakes to a bubbly, golden finish perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale

Vegetables and Aromatics

4 cups fresh or frozen broccoli florets
1 medium onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced

Protein

6 slices smoked turkey bacon, cooked and chopped

Sauce Components

3 tablespoons plant-based butter
3 tablespoons all-purpose flour (use gluten-free if preferred)
2 cups vegetable broth
1 tablespoon vegetarian Worcestershire sauce (natural)
1 cup plant-based cheese, shredded or cubed
1 teaspoon natural gelling agent
Salt, to taste
Black pepper, to taste

Instructions

Prepare Your Broccoli and Bacon: Blanch the broccoli florets in boiling water for 2-3 minutes until tender yet crisp. Drain well and set aside. While the broccoli cooks, sauté the smoked turkey bacon in a skillet over medium heat until crispy. Remove and chop into bite-sized pieces.
Make the Creamy Sauce: In the same skillet, melt the plant-based butter. Add the finely chopped onion and minced garlic and sauté until fragrant and translucent. Stir in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes to toast lightly. Gradually whisk in the vegetable broth, stirring continuously to prevent lumps. Add the vegetarian Worcestershire sauce (natural) and continue whisking until the sauce thickens gently. Stir in the plant-based cheese until melted smoothly. If the sauce requires more body, sprinkle in the natural gelling agent, mixing well for a creamy consistency.
Combine and Bake: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large bowl, mix the blanched broccoli, crispy bacon, and creamy sauce. Season with salt and black pepper to your preference. Transfer the mixture into a greased baking dish and spread evenly. Bake uncovered for 20-25 minutes until the top is bubbly and golden.
Let It Rest then Serve: Allow the casserole to rest for 5 minutes after baking to help it set and for flavors to meld. Serve garnished with freshly chopped parsley or chives, if desired.

Notes

Use fresh broccoli when possible for better texture and vibrant color.
Always cook the turkey bacon first to enhance flavor and texture.
Constantly whisk the sauce during preparation to avoid lumps.
Add the natural gelling agent gradually to control sauce thickness.
Resting the casserole before serving improves texture and flavor integration.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Category: Appetizers
Method: Baking

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 cup
Calories: 210
Sugar: 3g
Sodium: 450mg
Fat: 13g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Unsaturated Fat: 7g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 15g
Fiber: 4g
Protein: 8g
Cholesterol: 0mg

Keywords: creamed broccoli casserole, plant-based cheese casserole, turkey bacon casserole, creamy broccoli bake, gluten free casserole