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Crispy Cheesy Cauliflower and Broccoli Bake

Crispy Cheesy Cauliflower and Broccoli Bake - featured image
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A quick and easy comfort dinner featuring tender cauliflower and broccoli florets baked in a creamy cheese sauce, topped with a crispy panko-parmesan crust. Perfect for cozy family meals or potlucks, ready in just 30 minutes.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 3 cups cauliflower florets (about 10 oz), cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 3 cups broccoli florets (about 10 oz), cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
  • 1/2 cup Gruyère or Swiss cheese, shredded
  • 1 cup milk (whole or 2%)
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • Pinch of nutmeg (optional)
  • 3/4 cup panko breadcrumbs
  • 1/3 cup parmesan cheese, finely grated
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (optional)
  • Optional: red pepper flakes, chopped cooked bacon, chopped chives or green onions

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
  2. Cut cauliflower and broccoli into bite-sized florets. Rinse and pat dry.
  3. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Blanch florets for 2 minutes, drain, rinse with cold water, and pat dry.
  4. In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt butter. Whisk in flour and cook for 1 minute.
  5. Slowly pour in milk, whisking constantly. Simmer for 2-3 minutes until slightly thickened.
  6. Lower heat and stir in cheddar, Gruyère, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, and nutmeg. Stir until smooth.
  7. Place blanched veggies in a large bowl. Pour cheese sauce over and gently toss to coat.
  8. Spread mixture evenly into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
  9. In a small bowl, combine panko breadcrumbs, parmesan, and olive oil. Toss until crumbs are coated. Fold in parsley if using.
  10. Sprinkle topping evenly over the veggie mixture. Press down lightly.
  11. Bake on the middle rack for 18-22 minutes, until top is golden and edges are bubbling. For extra crunch, broil for 2 minutes at the end.
  12. Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Notes

For gluten-free, use gluten-free flour and panko. For vegan, use plant-based cheese, milk, and butter. Pat veggies dry for best texture. Broil topping for extra crunch. Make ahead by assembling and refrigerating, then bake before serving.

Nutrition

Keywords: cauliflower bake, broccoli casserole, cheesy vegetable bake, comfort food, easy dinner, vegetarian, gluten-free option, panko topping, family meal, potluck recipe

Find it online: https://hungermind.com/crispy-cheesy-cauliflower-and-broccoli-bake-easy-30-minute-comfort-dinner/