If you’re looking for a delicious and nutritious dish that brings the comfort of a casserole with the freshness of vegetables, this Hearty Cauliflower and Broccoli Vegetable Bake is the perfect choice. Packed with vitamins, minerals, and a blend of flavors, this recipe is a great way to enjoy your greens while indulging in a creamy, cheesy delight. Whether you’re preparing a side dish for a family dinner or a wholesome main course, this bake will satisfy your taste buds.
This Hearty Cauliflower and Broccoli Vegetable Bake is a comforting, nutritious option for any meal. Whether served as a side dish or a main course, it’s sure to be a hit with everyone at the table. Enjoy this delicious blend of fresh vegetables and creamy, cheesy goodness!
INGREDIENTS:
- 1 medium head of cauliflower, cut into florets
- 1 medium head of broccoli, cut into florets
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 ½ cups milk (whole, 2%, or plant-based)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- ½ cup breadcrumbs
- 2 tablespoons butter, melted
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
INSTRUCTIONS:
Instructions:
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and set aside.
- Prepare the Vegetables: Steam the cauliflower and broccoli florets until they are just tender but still firm. This should take about 5-7 minutes. Once done, drain any excess water and transfer the vegetables to the prepared baking dish.
- Make the Sauce: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until soft and translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Thicken the Sauce: Sprinkle the flour over the onions and garlic, stirring constantly to avoid lumps. Cook for about 1 minute, then gradually whisk in the milk. Continue stirring until the sauce thickens, about 3-4 minutes.
- Add the Cheese: Remove the skillet from heat and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese and grated Parmesan. Season with paprika, salt, and pepper to taste. Stir until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is smooth.
- Combine and Bake: Pour the cheese sauce over the steamed cauliflower and broccoli in the baking dish, ensuring the vegetables are evenly coated. In a small bowl, mix the breadcrumbs with melted butter and sprinkle this mixture over the top of the casserole.
- Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the sauce is bubbling.
- Serve: Once baked, remove the dish from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley, if desired, and serve warm.
Tips:
- Make Ahead: This vegetable bake can be prepared in advance and stored in the refrigerator. Simply cover it with foil and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, remove the foil and follow the baking instructions.
- Variations: Feel free to add other vegetables such as carrots, peas, or mushrooms for a more diverse flavor profile. You can also substitute the cheeses with your favorites like Gruyère or mozzarella for a different twist.
- Health Boost: For a lighter version, you can use low-fat milk and reduce the amount of cheese. Adding a handful of spinach or kale can also boost the nutritional value of the dish.
ENJOY IT💛
