Cheesy Broccoli and Cauliflower Bake

This Cheesy Broccoli and Cauliflower Bake is a wholesome and delicious dish that combines fresh vegetables with a creamy, cheesy batter. Perfect as a side dish or a light main course, this recipe is full of comforting flavors and nutritious ingredients.

Preparation Time: 20 minutes
Cooking Time: 35 minutes
Total Time: 55 minutes

Ingredients

  • Vegetables:
    • Broccoli: 1 head, cut into florets
    • Cauliflower: 1 head, cut into florets
    • Onion: 1, finely chopped
    • Sweet peppers: 2, diced
  • Seasoning:
    • Salt: To taste
    • Black pepper: To taste
    • Italian herbs: To taste
  • Batter:
    • Eggs: 4
    • Cream: 1/2 cup (100 ml)
    • Flour: 4 tablespoons
    • Fresh dill and parsley: Chopped
    • Cheese: Grated (amount to taste)
  • Other Ingredients:

Directions

  1. Prepare the Vegetables:
    • Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
    • Blanch the broccoli and cauliflower florets in boiling salted water for 3 minutes. Drain and set aside.
  2. Sauté the Onion and Peppers:
    • Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
    • Add the finely chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
    • Stir in the diced sweet peppers and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes. Remove from heat.
  3. Mix the Batter:
    • In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, cream, flour, salt, black pepper, and Italian herbs until smooth.
    • Add the chopped dill and parsley, and mix well.
  4. Assemble the Bake:
    • In a greased baking dish, layer the broccoli and cauliflower florets evenly.
    • Spread the sautéed onion and pepper mixture over the vegetables.
    • Pour the egg and cream batter over the vegetables, ensuring it covers everything evenly.
    • Sprinkle grated cheese generously on top.
  5. Bake:
    • Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 35 minutes, or until the top is golden and the batter is set.
  6. Serve:
    • Let the bake cool for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with additional fresh parsley or dill if desired.

Serving Suggestions

  • Serve as a side dish with grilled chicken or fish.
  • Pair with a fresh green salad for a light vegetarian meal.
  • Enjoy as a brunch option with crusty bread.

Cooking Tips

  • For extra flavor, use a mix of cheeses like cheddar, mozzarella, or Parmesan.
  • Add a pinch of chili flakes for a spicy kick.
  • If you prefer a gluten-free version, substitute the flour with almond or coconut flour.

Nutritional Benefits

  • Broccoli and cauliflower are rich in vitamins C and K, as well as dietary fiber.
  • Eggs provide high-quality protein and essential nutrients like vitamin D.
  • Fresh herbs add antioxidants and enhance the flavor without added calories.

Dietary Information

  • Vegetarian: Yes
  • Gluten-Free: No (can be adapted by using gluten-free flour)
  • Dairy-Free: No (can be adapted with dairy-free cream and cheese substitutes)

Storage

  • Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
  • Reheat: Warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) or in the microwave until heated through.
  • Freeze: Can be frozen for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Combines the comforting flavors of cheese with the goodness of fresh vegetables.
  • Perfect for meal prep and reheats beautifully.
  • Easily customizable with your favorite seasonings and vegetables.
  • A nutritious and hearty dish suitable for any time of the day.

Conclusion
This Cheesy Broccoli and Cauliflower Bake is a crowd-pleasing dish that’s easy to make and packed with wholesome ingredients. Whether served as a side dish or a standalone meal, its rich flavors and creamy texture are sure to delight everyone at the table.

Frequently Asked Questions

  1. Can I use frozen broccoli and cauliflower?
    Yes, thaw and drain them before using to avoid excess moisture.
  2. Can I add meat to this recipe?
    Yes, cooked chicken, bacon, or sausage can be added for extra protein.
  3. What other vegetables can I include?
    Zucchini, mushrooms, or spinach are great additions.
  4. Can I make this ahead of time?
    Yes, assemble the dish ahead, refrigerate, and bake when ready.
  5. How do I make this dairy-free?
    Use plant-based cream and cheese substitutes.
  6. Can I replace cream with milk?
    Yes, use whole milk for a lighter version, but the texture may be less creamy.
  7. What cheese works best for this bake?
    Cheddar, mozzarella, or a mix of both work well.
  8. Can I skip the eggs?
    Use an egg substitute or a mixture of flaxseed and water as a binding agent.
  9. How do I prevent the dish from becoming watery?
    Ensure vegetables are well-drained after blanching and don’t overuse cream.
  10. Can I freeze this dish?
    Yes, freeze after baking and let it cool completely. Reheat directly from frozen or after thawing.