Description
This Cheesy Broccoli Cauliflower Casserole is a comforting and nutritious plant-based dish featuring fresh broccoli and cauliflower enveloped in a rich, creamy plant-based cheese sauce. Enhanced with sautéed onion and garlic, vegetarian Worcestershire sauce (natural), apple cider vinegar (natural), and a natural gelling agent, it provides the perfect texture and flavor. Easy to prepare and family-friendly, this casserole offers a satisfying cheesy flavor with wholesome goodness.
Ingredients
Scale
Vegetables
- 3 cups fresh broccoli florets
- 3 cups fresh cauliflower florets
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Cheese Sauce
- 2 tablespoons plant-based butter
- 2 cups plant-based milk
- 1 cup plant-based cheese, shredded
- 1 tablespoon vegetarian Worcestershire sauce (natural)
- 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar (natural)
- 1 tablespoon natural gelling agent
Seasonings and Extras
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
- Fresh herbs (optional, e.g. parsley or chives)
Instructions
- Prep Your Veggies: Wash and chop the broccoli and cauliflower into bite-sized florets. Lightly steam them until tender-crisp, preserving their fresh crunch and vibrant flavor.
- Make the Cheese Sauce: In a saucepan, melt the plant-based butter over medium heat. Sauté the finely chopped onion and minced garlic until fragrant and translucent. Add plant-based milk, vegetarian Worcestershire sauce (natural), apple cider vinegar (natural), and the natural gelling agent. Stir constantly until the mixture thickens into a smooth, luscious sauce. Remove from heat and whisk in the plant-based cheese until fully combined and creamy.
- Combine and Season: Gently fold the steamed broccoli and cauliflower into the cheese sauce. Season with salt and black pepper to taste, ensuring a balanced savory flavor throughout.
- Bake Until Golden: Transfer the mixture to a lightly greased casserole dish. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 30 minutes, until the top is slightly golden and the filling is bubbly and set with a sliceable texture.
- Let It Rest: Remove the casserole from the oven and allow it to cool for 5 to 10 minutes. This resting period helps the flavors settle and makes serving easier.
Notes
- Do not oversteam vegetables; keep them slightly firm to avoid a mushy texture.
- Use fresh plant-based cheese for the best flavor and creaminess.
- Whisk the cheese sauce gently to prevent lumps and maintain smoothness.
- Season in layers by tasting and adjusting seasoning before baking.
- Allow the casserole to rest after baking to keep it firm and easier to cut.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Appetizers
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 200
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 300mg
- Fat: 11g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: cheesy broccoli cauliflower casserole, plant-based cheese casserole, creamy vegetable casserole, gluten free casserole, vegan broccoli cauliflower bake