Description
Broccoli Spinach Casserole is a wholesome and comforting plant-based dish combining fresh broccoli and baby spinach with creamy plant-based cheese and a smoky, savory sauce. Easy to prepare and full of vibrant flavors and textures, this casserole is perfect for family meals, meal prepping, or anytime you crave a hearty vegetable bake that reheats beautifully.
Ingredients
Scale
Vegetables
- 3 cups fresh broccoli florets
- 2 cups baby spinach leaves
Aromatics
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Sauce Ingredients
- 1 ½ cups creamy plant-based milk
- 2 tablespoons vegetarian Worcestershire sauce (natural)
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1 teaspoon natural gelling agent
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 cup plant-based cheese, shredded or grated (plant-based)
Topping
- 1 cup crushed crackers or breadcrumbs
Instructions
- Prepare the Vegetables: Wash and chop broccoli into bite-sized florets. Rinse baby spinach leaves thoroughly and drain well. Steam or blanch the broccoli briefly until just tender to maintain bright color and crunch.
- Cook the Aromatics: In a large skillet, sauté finely chopped onion and minced garlic over medium heat until translucent and fragrant, forming the savory base for the sauce.
- Make the Creamy Sauce: Add plant-based milk, vegetarian Worcestershire sauce (natural), smoked paprika, and ground black pepper to the skillet. Gradually whisk in the natural gelling agent to prevent lumps and cook until the sauce thickens to a smooth, velvety consistency. Stir in lemon juice and plant-based cheese until melted and fully incorporated.
- Combine and Assemble: Gently fold steamed broccoli and fresh spinach into the creamy sauce. Transfer the mixture into a baking dish. Evenly sprinkle the crushed crackers or breadcrumb topping over the casserole for a crunchy golden crust.
- Bake to Perfection: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the casserole for 20-25 minutes or until the topping is golden brown, crispy, and the casserole is bubbling around the edges.
Notes
- Do not overcook broccoli during steaming to retain its texture and vibrant color.
- Whisk the natural gelling agent slowly and thoroughly into warm liquid for a smooth, lump-free sauce.
- Allow onions and garlic to caramelize slightly before adding liquids for deeper flavor.
- Mix nutritional yeast into the breadcrumb topping for a subtle cheesy flavor boost.
- Serve the casserole immediately after baking to enjoy the creamy sauce and crunchy topping at their best.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Appetizers
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 210
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 320mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 7g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: broccoli casserole, spinach casserole, plant-based casserole, vegan casserole, vegetable bake, comfort food, gluten free, healthy casserole
