This Broccoli and Cauliflower Vegetable Casserole is a hearty and flavorful dish that combines tender vegetables, savory eggs, and creamy cheese. It’s a perfect side dish or a light meal that’s both nutritious and satisfying. The bright, fresh flavors of the vegetables paired with the richness of the egg mixture make this casserole a wonderful addition to any table. Whether served for dinner, brunch, or as a comfort food side, this casserole is sure to please even the pickiest eaters.
Preparation, Cook, and Total Times
- Preparation Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35-40 minutes
- Total Time: 50-55 minutes
- Servings: 6-8 servings
Cuisine
This casserole is inspired by traditional American comfort food but incorporates fresh, healthy vegetables like broccoli and cauliflower, making it a lighter yet flavorful dish. It works well for various occasions, whether as a side dish for dinner or as a main dish for a vegetarian meal.
Full List of Ingredients
- 1 head of broccoli, cut into florets
- 1 head of cauliflower, cut into florets
- Salt, to taste
- 1 onion, chopped
- Olive oil
- 2 sweet peppers (red, yellow, orange, or a combination), chopped
- Black pepper, to taste
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning (or a blend of your favorite dried herbs)
- 4 large eggs
- ½ cup (100 ml) heavy cream (or milk)
- 4 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- Fresh dill and parsley, chopped (amount to your preference)
- Grated cheese of your choice (cheddar, mozzarella, parmesan, or a blend)
Step-by-Step Cooking Directions
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Prepare the Broccoli and Cauliflower:
Start by washing and cutting the broccoli and cauliflower into bite-sized florets. In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the broccoli and cauliflower florets and cook for 3-4 minutes, or until they’re tender-crisp. Drain the vegetables and set them aside to cool slightly. -
Sauté the Vegetables:
In a large skillet, heat a tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook for 2-3 minutes, or until softened and translucent. Then, add the chopped sweet peppers and cook for another 2-3 minutes, or until softened. Season with salt, black pepper, and Italian seasoning to taste, allowing the flavors to meld together. -
Combine the Vegetables:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked and drained broccoli and cauliflower florets with the sautéed onions and sweet peppers. Stir everything together to ensure an even distribution of the vegetables. -
Prepare the Egg Mixture:
In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs, heavy cream (or milk), and salt and pepper to taste. Gradually whisk in the flour to make the batter smooth, ensuring there are no lumps. This mixture will help hold everything together in the casserole as it bakes. -
Assemble and Bake:
Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Grease a baking dish with cooking spray or butter to prevent sticking. Pour the combined vegetables into the prepared baking dish and spread them evenly. Then, pour the egg mixture evenly over the vegetables. Sprinkle with chopped fresh dill and parsley for added flavor and garnish. Top generously with your choice of grated cheese. -
Bake and Serve:
Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the egg mixture has set in the center. You’ll know it’s done when the casserole is firm to the touch and golden brown on top. Once out of the oven, let it cool slightly before serving.
Nutritional Information (per serving)
- Calories: 220 kcal
- Protein: 8 g
- Fat: 16 g
- Carbohydrates: 12 g
- Fiber: 4 g
- Sugar: 5 g
- Sodium: 380 mg
- Cholesterol: 155 mg
- Vitamin A: 20%
The Origins and Popularity of the Recipe
Vegetable casseroles have long been a staple of American home cooking, offering an easy and tasty way to prepare a variety of vegetables. This particular recipe, featuring broccoli and cauliflower, draws from the tradition of incorporating healthy vegetables into flavorful, filling dishes. The combination of cheese, eggs, and vegetables makes it a versatile and easy-to-make dish that can fit into any meal plan, from dinner to brunch.
Reasons Why You’ll Love the Recipe
- Simple and Fresh Ingredients: The ingredients in this casserole are easy to find, and you likely have many of them on hand already.
- Customizable: You can mix and match your choice of cheeses and seasonings to make the dish your own.
- Perfect for Meal Prep: This casserole is ideal for making ahead of time. It stores well and can be reheated for later meals.
- Vegetarian-Friendly: It’s a great choice for those who prefer a plant-based diet, while still being hearty enough to serve as a main dish.
- Healthy: Full of fiber and vitamins from the broccoli and cauliflower, this casserole is a nutritious addition to your meal rotation.
Health Benefits
- Broccoli: Rich in vitamins C, K, and A, as well as fiber and antioxidants, broccoli supports immune health and helps reduce inflammation.
- Cauliflower: A great source of fiber, antioxidants, and vitamins, cauliflower aids in digestion and supports a healthy immune system.
- Eggs: High in protein, eggs provide the body with essential amino acids that help build muscle and repair tissue.
- Peppers: Sweet peppers are high in vitamin C and are known for their antioxidant properties, which help protect the body from oxidative stress.
Serving Suggestions
- As a Side Dish: This casserole pairs perfectly with grilled chicken, roasted meats, or a simple salad.
- For Brunch: Serve it alongside a fruit salad or fresh bread to create a light and satisfying brunch spread.
- With a Side of Grains: Pair the casserole with quinoa, couscous, or brown rice for a more filling meal.
- Topped with Yogurt: A dollop of plain yogurt or a drizzle of sour cream adds a refreshing contrast to the richness of the casserole.
Cooking Tips
- Don’t Overcook the Vegetables: When boiling the broccoli and cauliflower, be sure to cook them just until tender-crisp to avoid mushy vegetables in your casserole.
- Use Fresh Herbs: Fresh dill and parsley really brighten up the dish, but you can also experiment with other herbs like thyme or rosemary for different flavor profiles.
- Choose Your Cheese Wisely: While cheddar, mozzarella, and parmesan are great choices, feel free to experiment with other cheeses like Gruyère or gouda for added flavor.
- Make It Dairy-Free: For a dairy-free version, substitute the cream with a plant-based milk and use dairy-free cheese.
Variations to Try
- Add Bacon or Sausage: For a non-vegetarian twist, you can add cooked bacon or sausage to the casserole for an extra layer of flavor.
- Add More Vegetables: Toss in additional vegetables like zucchini, spinach, or mushrooms to increase the nutrient content of the casserole.
- Spicy Casserole: Add a diced jalapeño or some red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
- Cheese-Free Version: Omit the cheese for a lighter version of the casserole that’s just as delicious.
Conclusion
This Broccoli and Cauliflower Vegetable Casserole is an easy, healthy, and versatile dish that makes for a great addition to any meal. Whether you’re serving it as a side or as a vegetarian main dish, the flavors of the roasted vegetables, creamy egg mixture, and melted cheese come together beautifully. Customize it with your favorite seasonings and vegetables, and enjoy the comforting goodness it brings to the table!
10 Comprehensive FAQ Section
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Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. -
Can I use frozen vegetables instead of fresh?
Yes, you can use frozen broccoli and cauliflower, but be sure to thaw and drain them thoroughly to avoid excess water in the casserole. -
Can I use a different type of cheese?
Absolutely! Feel free to swap the cheddar, mozzarella, or parmesan for your favorite cheese, such as gouda, feta, or blue cheese. -
How do I know when the casserole is done?
The casserole is done when the egg mixture is set, and the cheese is melted and bubbly. You can test by gently pressing on the top—it should be firm. -
Can I make this dish without eggs?
If you’re looking for an egg-free version, you can substitute the eggs with a tofu-based mixture or a flaxseed egg substitute. -
Is this casserole gluten-free?
Yes, as long as you use a gluten-free flour or substitute for the all-purpose flour, this casserole can easily be made gluten-free. -
Can I freeze the casserole?
Yes, you can freeze the casserole after baking. Let it cool, then wrap it tightly and freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven before serving. -
Can I add more vegetables?
Definitely! Feel free to add any of your favorite vegetables, such as spinach, zucchini, or tomatoes, to enhance the dish. -
How long can leftovers be stored?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. -
Can I make this casserole dairy-free?
Yes, simply substitute the heavy cream with a dairy-free milk and use a plant-based cheese to make it dairy-free.
Enjoy your Broccoli and Cauliflower Vegetable Casserole!