Description
This Broccoli Cheese Casserole is a comforting, creamy, and delicious plant-based dish perfect for a simple and nutritious dinner. Featuring fresh broccoli florets and melty plant-based cheese, it offers a smooth texture and rich flavors. Ready in under an hour, it’s ideal for busy weeknights and customizable with your favorite veggies or spices.
Ingredients
Scale
Vegetables
- 2 cups fresh broccoli florets, washed and chopped
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Cheese Sauce
- 1 cup plant-based cheese, shredded
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour (or gluten-free flour)
- 2 cups plant-based milk
- 1 tablespoon vegetarian Worcestershire sauce (natural)
- 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar (natural)
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon natural gelling agent
Topping (Optional)
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (gluten-free if preferred)
- 2 tablespoons plant-based cheese, shredded
- Optional garnish: fresh chopped parsley, smoked paprika, toasted pine nuts
Herbs and Spices
- Nutmeg
- Paprika
- Salt and pepper
Instructions
- Prepare the Broccoli: Wash and chop fresh broccoli into bite-sized florets. Steam lightly until tender but still bright green to retain a slight crunch.
- Make the Cheese Sauce: In a saucepan, sauté diced onion and minced garlic in olive oil until translucent and fragrant. Sprinkle in the flour and whisk continuously to form a roux. Gradually pour in the plant-based milk while stirring to avoid lumps. Add shredded plant-based cheese and vegetarian Worcestershire sauce (natural). Cook until melted and smooth.
- Bring in the Flavors: Season the sauce with salt, pepper, nutmeg, and apple cider vinegar (natural). Stir in the natural gelling agent to maintain a creamy texture after baking.
- Combine and Transfer: Gently mix the steamed broccoli into the cheese sauce until well coated. Pour the mixture into a greased baking dish, spreading evenly. For an optional crunch, sprinkle the top with a mix of breadcrumbs and plant-based cheese.
- Bake until Golden: Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 25-30 minutes until bubbling at the edges and golden brown on top. Let cool slightly before serving.
Notes
- Do not overcook broccoli to preserve texture and prevent mushiness.
- Use freshly shredded plant-based cheese for better melting and flavor.
- The sauce should coat the back of a spoon; adjust with plant-based milk or natural gelling agent as needed.
- Allow the casserole to rest for 10 minutes after baking to set properly.
- Experiment with toppings such as crushed crackers or herbs for additional flavor and texture.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Appetizers
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 220
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 350mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 7g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: broccoli cheese casserole, plant-based casserole, vegan broccoli casserole, gluten-free dinner, creamy casserole, vegetable casserole, plant-based cheese recipe
