Broccoli cauliflower casserole is a versatile and hearty dish that brings together the best of both vegetables in a creamy, cheesy sauce. Perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or as a side dish for holiday meals, this casserole is both nutritious and delicious. It’s easy to make and can be customized with your favorite ingredients. Let’s dive into this delightful recipe that will surely become a favorite in your home.
Ingredients
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 2 cups cauliflower florets
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 can (10.5 oz) condensed cream of mushroom soup
- 1 cup milk
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup crushed Ritz crackers or breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup butter, melted
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Prepare the Vegetables: In a large pot of boiling water, cook the broccoli and cauliflower florets for about 3-4 minutes until tender-crisp. Drain and set aside.
- Sauté the Onion and Garlic: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, and sauté until softened.
- Prepare the Sauce: In a large bowl, combine the condensed cream of mushroom soup, milk, sour cream, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix until well combined.
- Combine Ingredients: Add the sautéed onion and garlic, broccoli, and cauliflower to the sauce. Stir until everything is evenly coated.
- Assemble the Casserole: Transfer the mixture to a greased 9×13 inch baking dish. Spread it out evenly. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese on top.
- Prepare the Topping: In a small bowl, mix the crushed Ritz crackers or breadcrumbs with the melted butter until well combined. Sprinkle the topping evenly over the casserole.
- Bake: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and the topping is golden brown.
- Serve: Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley.
Conclusion
This broccoli cauliflower casserole is a delightful blend of creamy, cheesy goodness with the natural sweetness of vegetables. It’s a perfect dish for any occasion and pairs well with a variety of main courses. Enjoy this comforting classic with your loved ones!
FAQs
1. Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the casserole up to a day in advance. Just cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and store it in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to bake, remove it from the fridge and let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before baking as directed.
2. Can I freeze broccoli cauliflower casserole?
Absolutely! After baking, let the casserole cool completely. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.
3. What can I serve with broccoli cauliflower casserole?
This casserole pairs well with a variety of main dishes such as roasted chicken, grilled steak, or baked ham. It also complements other side dishes like green beans, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad.
4. Can I use fresh vegetables instead of frozen?
Certainly! Fresh vegetables can be used in place of frozen ones. Just make sure to chop them into bite-sized pieces and cook them until tender-crisp before adding them to the casserole.
5. How can I make this casserole healthier?
To make a healthier version, you can use low-fat cream of mushroom soup and cheese. You can also add more vegetables like spinach, zucchini, or bell peppers to increase the nutritional value.
6. Can I add other ingredients to this casserole?
Yes, this recipe is very versatile. Feel free to add ingredients like diced jalapeños for a spicy kick, or cooked bacon bits for extra flavor. You can also mix in some green onions or chives for added freshness.
Enjoy making and sharing this delicious broccoli cauliflower casserole with your friends and family! 🥦🧀
Feel free to ask if you need more recipes or have any other questions!