Discover the delight of a wholesome and hearty vegetable casserole with this delicious recipe. Combining tender potatoes, cauliflower, and broccoli with a creamy, cheesy sauce, this dish is a perfect balance of flavors and textures. It’s easy to prepare and makes for a satisfying meal that’s both nutritious and comforting. Whether you’re looking for a side dish or a main course, this vegetable casserole is sure to impress your family and guests.
Ingredients
- 3 potatoes, boiled until tender
- 300g cauliflower, boiled for 10 minutes
- 300g broccoli
- 1 onion, chopped
- 1 carrot, grated
- Olive oil
- Butter
- 40g butter (for sauce)
- 2 tbsp flour
- 250ml chicken broth
- 70-100g cheese, shredded (plus extra for topping)
- Salt
- Dry garlic
- Herbs of Provence
- 40g mayonnaise
- 40g yogurt
- 40g ketchup
- Fresh dill, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Instructions
- Prepare the Vegetables:
- Boil the potatoes until tender. Set aside.
- Boil the cauliflower for 10 minutes until soft. Add the broccoli to the pot and boil together for another 5 minutes until both are tender. Drain and set aside.
- Cook the Onion and Carrot:
- In a large skillet, heat a bit of olive oil and butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and grated carrot. Sauté until the onion is translucent and the carrot is softened. Mix the cooked vegetables together and set aside.
- Make the Sauce:
- In the same skillet, melt 40g of butter over medium heat. Add the flour and stir constantly to make a roux. Gradually add the chicken broth, stirring continuously until the mixture thickens. Reduce the heat and stir in the cream, mixing well.
- Add the shredded cheese, salt, dry garlic, and Herbs of Provence to the sauce. Mix until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth.
- Assemble the Casserole:
- Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F).
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the boiled potatoes, cauliflower, and broccoli with the sautéed onion and carrot. Pour the cheese sauce over the vegetables and mix well to coat evenly.
- Transfer the mixture to a baking dish. Sprinkle extra cheese on top for a cheesy crust.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly.
- Prepare the Topping Sauce:
- In a small bowl, mix together the mayonnaise, yogurt, ketchup, fresh dill, and minced garlic. This will be a delicious topping sauce to serve with the casserole.
- Serve:
- Once baked, let the casserole cool slightly before serving. Drizzle the prepared topping sauce over the casserole or serve it on the side.
More Information
This casserole is a fantastic dish that combines the best of comfort food with nutritious vegetables. The blend of broccoli, cauliflower, and potatoes offers a variety of textures, while the creamy cheese sauce ties everything together with its rich and savory flavor.
Storage Tips: Leftover casserole can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.
Serving Suggestions: This casserole can be enjoyed as a main course with a side salad or as a hearty side dish paired with grilled chicken or fish. It’s also a great option for potlucks and family gatherings.
Customization Ideas: Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms. For a protein boost, mix in some cooked chicken or bacon bits. You can also experiment with different cheeses to change up the flavor profile.
This Broccoli and Cauliflower Vegetable Casserole is a delightful blend of fresh vegetables, creamy sauce, and melted cheese, making it a crowd-pleasing dish that’s both nutritious and comforting. Here’s a closer look at what makes this casserole a fantastic addition to your recipe collection:
Nutritional Highlights:
- Broccoli: Rich in vitamins C and K, fiber, and antioxidants, broccoli supports immune health, bone strength, and digestive wellness.
- Cauliflower: A good source of fiber, vitamins C and K, and folate, cauliflower offers anti-inflammatory properties and supports heart health.
- Potatoes: Packed with potassium, vitamin C, and vitamin B6, potatoes provide energy-boosting carbohydrates and essential nutrients.
- Cheese: Adds calcium, protein, and healthy fats, contributing to bone health and muscle function.
Storage Tips:
- Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat portions in the oven or microwave until warmed through.
- Freezing: This casserole freezes well. Portion it out, wrap each portion in plastic wrap, and store in a freezer-safe bag. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat before serving.
Serving Suggestions:
- Main Course: Enjoy this casserole as a hearty main dish with a side salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal.
- Side Dish: Pair it with grilled chicken, fish, or steak for a complete and satisfying dinner.
- Potluck Favorite: This casserole is perfect for potlucks, family gatherings, and holiday meals. It’s easy to transport and always a hit.
Customization Ideas:
- Vegetable Variations: Add other vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, mushrooms, or spinach to the mix. This can enhance the nutritional value and flavor.
- Protein Boost: Mix in cooked chicken, turkey, or bacon bits for added protein and a savory twist.
- Cheese Options: Experiment with different types of cheese such as cheddar, mozzarella, gouda, or parmesan to change the flavor profile.
- Spice It Up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper, paprika, or red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
Dietary Adaptations:
- Vegetarian: Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth to make this dish suitable for vegetarians.
- Gluten-Free: Replace the flour with a gluten-free flour blend to cater to those with gluten sensitivities.
- Lower Fat: Use reduced-fat cheese and cream to lower the overall fat content while maintaining the creamy texture.
Flavor and Texture: This casserole boasts a rich, creamy sauce that perfectly complements the tender vegetables. The combination of potatoes, cauliflower, and broccoli provides a variety of textures, from the soft and fluffy potatoes to the slightly crisp broccoli. The sautéed onion and carrot add a depth of flavor, while the cheese sauce brings everything together with its smooth, savory goodness. Topping the casserole with extra cheese before baking creates a golden, bubbly crust that adds an irresistible layer of flavor and texture.
Health Benefits: Incorporating this vegetable casserole into your diet is a great way to boost your intake of essential nutrients. The fiber from the vegetables supports digestive health, while the vitamins and antioxidants help protect against chronic diseases. The protein and healthy fats from the cheese and cream contribute to satiety, making this dish a satisfying option for any meal.
Dietary Adaptations:
- Vegetarian: Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
- Gluten-Free: Substitute the flour with a gluten-free flour blend.
- Lower Fat: Use a lighter cream or milk and reduce the amount of cheese.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Nutrient-Rich: Packed with vegetables, this casserole is a great source of vitamins, minerals, and fiber.
- Comforting: The creamy cheese sauce and tender vegetables make for a comforting and satisfying meal.
- Versatile: This dish can be easily customized to suit your taste and dietary preferences.
- Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this casserole is perfect for both novice and experienced cooks.
Nutritional Benefits
Broccoli and cauliflower are excellent sources of vitamins C and K, as well as fiber and antioxidants. Potatoes provide a good amount of potassium and vitamin B6, while the cheese and cream add calcium and protein. This casserole offers a balanced mix of nutrients that support overall health.
Conclusion
This Broccoli and Cauliflower Vegetable Casserole is a delicious way to enjoy a variety of vegetables in one dish. It’s creamy, cheesy, and full of flavor, making it a perfect addition to any meal. Whether you’re looking for a comforting side dish or a nutritious main course, this casserole is sure to satisfy. Give it a try and delight your taste buds with this wholesome, tasty recipe.