This Cauliflower and Broccoli Casserole is a comforting and nutritious dish that beautifully combines tender cauliflower and broccoli florets with a creamy, cheesy sauce. Perfect as a side dish or a light main course, this casserole is packed with vitamins, fiber, and protein, making it both delicious and healthy. The golden, bubbly top adds a delightful crunch, while the rich flavors ensure it’s a favorite for the whole family. Whether you’re serving it for a holiday dinner or a weeknight meal, this casserole is sure to impress.
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Total Time: 45-50 minutes
Servings: 4-6 servings
Ingredients:
- 1 head cauliflower, cut into florets (about 800g)
- 2 cups broccoli florets (about 300g)
- 3 tablespoons olive oil (45 ml)
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped (150g)
- 3 cloves garlic, minced (9g)
- 1 cup heavy cream (240 ml)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (100g)
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese (50g)
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ cup breadcrumbs (optional, for topping)
- 2 tablespoons melted butter (30g) (optional, for breadcrumb topping)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
Directions:
- Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Prepare the Vegetables:
- Steam or blanch the cauliflower florets and broccoli florets until just tender, about 5-7 minutes. Drain and set aside.
- Cook the Aromatics:
- In a large skillet, heat 3 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat.
- Add the finely chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes.
- Add the minced garlic and dried thyme, cooking for an additional 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Make the Cream Sauce:
- Pour in the heavy cream, stirring continuously.
- Season with salt and black pepper.
- Let the sauce simmer for 3-4 minutes until it begins to thicken.
- Combine Ingredients:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the steamed cauliflower and broccoli.
- Pour the creamy onion and garlic sauce over the vegetables, mixing gently to ensure even coating.
- Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese and grated Parmesan cheese until well combined.
- Assemble the Casserole:
- Transfer the vegetable and cheese mixture into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish.
- If using breadcrumbs, mix them with melted butter and sprinkle evenly over the top for a crispy finish.
- Bake:
- Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the sauce is bubbly.
- If using breadcrumbs, ensure they are crispy and golden.
- Garnish and Serve:
- Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes.
- Garnish with freshly chopped parsley if desired.
- Serve warm and enjoy!
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve alongside roasted chicken or grilled steak for a complete meal.
- Pair with a fresh green salad to add a light, crisp contrast.
- Add a side of garlic bread or crusty baguette for dipping.
- Top with a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt for extra creaminess.
- Accompany with steamed or roasted vegetables for added nutrition.
Cooking Tips:
- Ensure the vegetables are not overcooked during steaming to maintain their texture.
- For a gluten-free option, use gluten-free breadcrumbs or omit them entirely.
- Customize the casserole by adding other vegetables like carrots, peas, or spinach.
- Use a combination of cheeses for a more complex flavor profile.
- Let the casserole rest for a few minutes after baking to allow the sauce to set, making it easier to serve.
Nutritional Benefits:
- Cauliflower and Broccoli are high in vitamins C and K, fiber, and antioxidants, promoting immune health and digestion.
- Cheddar and Parmesan Cheese provide calcium and protein, essential for bone health and muscle maintenance.
- Garlic offers anti-inflammatory properties and boosts the immune system.
- Olive Oil is a source of healthy monounsaturated fats, beneficial for heart health.
- Heavy Cream adds richness and a good dose of healthy fats, enhancing satiety.
Dietary Information:
- Gluten-Free: Can be made gluten-free by using gluten-free breadcrumbs.
- Vegetarian: Suitable for vegetarians.
- Dairy: Contains dairy from the cheeses and heavy cream.
- Nut-Free: Naturally nut-free.
- Low-Carb: Not low-carb due to the breadcrumbs and cream, but can be adjusted by omitting breadcrumbs and using a lighter cream alternative.
Nutritional Facts (per serving):
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Protein: 15g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fat: 25g
- Fiber: 6g
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 800mg
Storage:
- Refrigeration: Store leftover casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: Freeze the casserole for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
- Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes or until heated through. Microwave for 2-3 minutes per serving if in a hurry.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- It’s a comforting and satisfying dish that brings out the best flavors of cauliflower and broccoli.
- The creamy, cheesy sauce complements the vegetables perfectly, creating a rich and indulgent taste.
- Easy to prepare with simple ingredients, making it a go-to recipe for busy weeknights.
- Versatile and customizable, allowing you to add your favorite vegetables or spices.
- A family-friendly meal that both kids and adults will enjoy.
Conclusion:
This Cauliflower and Broccoli Casserole is a delightful combination of creamy, cheesy goodness and nutritious vegetables. It’s perfect for any occasion, whether you’re hosting a family dinner or looking for a comforting side dish. The balance of flavors and textures makes it an irresistible addition to your meal repertoire. Easy to prepare and packed with health benefits, this casserole is sure to become a beloved favorite in your kitchen.
Frequently Asked Questions:
- Can I use fresh herbs instead of dried thyme?
- Yes, you can substitute dried thyme with fresh thyme. Use about three times the amount of fresh herbs as dried.
- Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
- Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole up to the baking stage, cover it, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.
- Can I use a different type of cheese?
- Yes, feel free to use mozzarella, Swiss, or Gruyère cheese for different flavors and textures.
- Is this casserole dairy-free?
- No, it contains dairy from the cheese and heavy cream. To make it dairy-free, use plant-based cheese and a dairy-free cream alternative.
- Can I add meat to this casserole?
- Yes, adding cooked chicken, bacon, or sausage can enhance the protein content and add more flavor.
- How can I make this casserole vegan?
- Use plant-based cheeses, a dairy-free cream substitute, and omit or replace the butter with a vegan alternative.
- Can I use frozen vegetables instead of fresh?
- Yes, but ensure they are well-drained and not overly wet to prevent the casserole from becoming soggy.
- How do I prevent the casserole from being too dry?
- Ensure you use enough cream or milk to create a creamy sauce and avoid overbaking.
- Can I use low-fat dairy products?
- Yes, you can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or a low-fat milk, but the sauce may be less rich.
- Can I add breadcrumbs for a crunchy topping?
- Yes, adding breadcrumbs mixed with melted butter will give the casserole a nice crispy topping.