Hearty Broccoli and Vegetable Casserole

This hearty Broccoli and Vegetable Casserole is the perfect dish for a cozy dinner. Packed with fresh vegetables and creamy cheese, it’s both delicious and nutritious. This casserole is easy to prepare and sure to become a family favorite.

Preparation Time:

  • Prep time: 20 minutes
  • Cook time: 40 minutes
  • Total time: 1 hour

Ingredients:

  • 300 g broccoli
  • Water
  • Salt
  • 2 tablespoons milk
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • Olive oil, for sautéing
  • 1 carrot, chopped
  • Fresh parsley, chopped
  • 2 bell peppers, chopped
  • 230 g cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 5 eggs
  • Black pepper, to taste
  • Curry powder, to taste
  • 200 ml heavy cream
  • 100 g flour
  • 70 g cheese, grated
  • 2 tablespoons Greek yogurt
  • 1 tablespoon mayonnaise
  • 2 cloves of garlic, minced
  • Fresh dill, chopped

Directions:

Prepare the Broccoli:

  1. Boil the broccoli in salted water with 2 tablespoons of milk for about 2 minutes after the water starts boiling. Drain and set aside.

Prepare the Vegetables:

  1. Heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat.
  2. Chop the onion and sauté until soft.
  3. Add the chopped carrot and sauté for about 3 minutes.
  4. Add chopped parsley, bell peppers, and cherry tomatoes to the pan, and sauté until tender. Remove from heat.

Prepare the Egg Mixture:

  1. In a large bowl, beat the eggs.
  2. Add salt, black pepper, curry powder, heavy cream, and flour to the beaten eggs. Mix well until fully combined.

Combine and Bake:

  1. Add the cooked broccoli and sautéed vegetables to the egg mixture.
  2. Pour the mixture into a greased baking dish.
  3. Sprinkle grated cheese on top.
  4. Bake in a preheated oven at 180°C (356°F) for about 40 minutes, or until the top is golden and the casserole is set.

Prepare the Sauce:

  1. In a small bowl, mix Greek yogurt, mayonnaise, minced garlic, and chopped dill.
  2. Serve the sauce alongside the casserole.

Serve:

  1. Once the casserole is done baking, let it cool slightly.
  2. Serve with the prepared yogurt sauce on the side.

Serving Suggestions:

  • Serve the casserole with a side salad for a complete meal.
  • Pair it with a slice of crusty bread to soak up the creamy sauce.

Cooking Tips:

  • For extra flavor, add a sprinkle of your favorite herbs to the egg mixture.
  • Use a mix of different colored bell peppers to add a pop of color to the dish.

Nutritional Benefits:

  • This casserole is packed with vegetables, providing a good source of vitamins and minerals.
  • Eggs and cheese add a boost of protein to keep you satisfied.

Dietary Information:

  • Vegetarian
  • To make it gluten-free, use a gluten-free flour blend.

Storage:

  • Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
  • Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe:

  • It’s an easy and delicious way to incorporate more vegetables into your diet.
  • The creamy and cheesy texture makes it a hit with both kids and adults.
  • It’s versatile and can be customized with your favorite veggies and spices.

Conclusion:
This hearty broccoli and vegetable casserole is a delicious, nutritious, and easy-to-make dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re looking for a comforting dinner or a dish to impress your guests, this casserole has got you covered. Enjoy the rich flavors and creamy texture, and don’t forget to share your experience!


Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):

  1. Can I use other vegetables in this casserole?
    Yes, you can substitute or add other vegetables like zucchini, mushrooms, or spinach.
  2. Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
    Absolutely! Prepare the casserole as instructed but don’t bake it. Cover and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Bake when ready to serve.
  3. How can I make this dish dairy-free?
    Use dairy-free substitutes for milk, cheese, and yogurt, such as almond milk, vegan cheese, and dairy-free yogurt.
  4. What kind of cheese works best for this recipe?
    Cheddar, mozzarella, or a blend of cheeses work well. For a stronger flavor, try using Gruyère or Parmesan.
  5. Can I use frozen broccoli?
    Yes, frozen broccoli works well. Just thaw and drain it before adding it to the casserole.
  6. Can I freeze the leftovers?
    Yes, allow the casserole to cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 2 months. Reheat in the oven until warmed through.
  7. How do I avoid a soggy casserole?
    Ensure the vegetables are sautéed well to remove excess moisture and avoid adding too much liquid to the egg mixture.
  8. What can I serve with this casserole?
    This dish pairs well with a simple side salad, roasted potatoes, or a slice of fresh bread.
  9. Can I use whole wheat flour instead of white flour?
    Yes, you can substitute whole wheat flour, but it may change the texture slightly.
  10. How can I add more protein to this recipe?
    Add cooked beans, tofu, or lentils to the vegetable mix for an extra protein boost.

Feel free to enjoy this comforting and nutritious Broccoli and Vegetable Casserole, and share it with your friends and family!