Tired of the same old side dishes? This Cheesy Broccoli and Cauliflower Casserole is a delicious and easy way to enjoy your vegetables, making it a perfect addition to your healthy cauliflower recipes repertoire. You’ll love how simple it is to prepare and how much flavor it brings to any meal.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
- Cauliflower: Fresh is best, but frozen works too.
- Broccoli: Fresh florets are ideal.
- Cheese: Sharp cheddar for best flavor. You can use mozzarella or a dairy-free alternative.
- Milk: Any kind of dairy or non-dairy milk.
- Flour: All-purpose flour. You can use a gluten-free flour blend.
Ingredients
- 1 large head cauliflower, cut into florets
- 1 large head broccoli, cut into florets
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 ½ cups milk
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese, plus ¼ cup for topping
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ¼ teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and black pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Servings: 6
- Calories per serving: Approximately 210
- Tools Needed: Large pot, 9×13 inch baking dish, whisk
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare Your Vegetables
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Steam or boil your cauliflower and broccoli florets until they are tender-crisp, about 5-7 minutes. Drain them well and set aside.
2. Make the Cheese Sauce
In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for one minute, stirring constantly, to create a roux. Gradually whisk in the milk until the mixture is smooth and begins to thicken.
3. Season the Sauce
Stir in 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese until it’s melted and smooth. Add the garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Continue stirring until the sauce is well combined and creamy.
4. Combine and Bake
Gently fold the steamed broccoli and cauliflower into the cheese sauce. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish. Sprinkle the remaining ¼ cup of cheddar cheese over the top. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until bubbly and golden brown.
Variation Ideas
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the cheese sauce.
- Add protein: Stir in cooked, shredded chicken for a more substantial meal.
- Crispy topping: Mix ½ cup of breadcrumbs with a tablespoon of melted butter and sprinkle over the top before baking for added crunch.
Storage Instructions
You can store leftover Cheesy Broccoli and Cauliflower Casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, warm individual portions in the microwave or cover the dish with foil and bake at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- Can you use frozen vegetables?
Yes, you can use frozen broccoli and cauliflower. Thaw them first and pat them dry to remove excess water.
- Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely! Prepare a larger batch and portion it out for healthy meals throughout the week.
- Can you make it ahead of time?
You can assemble the casserole without baking, cover it, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. Add 10-15 minutes to the baking time.
- What kind of cheese is best?
Sharp cheddar provides the most flavor, but you can use mild cheddar, Colby, or a blend.
- How do you prevent the casserole from being watery?
Ensure your steamed broccoli and cauliflower are well-drained. Excess water can thin out the cheese sauce.
- Can you add other vegetables?
Yes, feel free to add other quick-cooking vegetables like diced carrots or bell peppers for more healthy cauliflower recipes variation.