Description
This Broccoli Cheese Casserole is a warm, creamy, and comforting plant-based dish that combines fresh broccoli florets with a rich, velvety sauce made of plant-based cheese and natural ingredients. Simple to prepare and family-friendly, it is ideal for weekday dinners or special gatherings, offering a satisfying and nutritious meal with a delightful blend of flavors and textures.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 4 cups fresh broccoli florets
- 1 cup plant-based cheese, shredded
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic (natural), minced
- 2 tablespoons whole wheat or white flour
- 1 1/2 cups plant-based milk
- 1 cup vegetable broth
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar (natural)
- 1 teaspoon natural gelling agent
- Salt to taste
- Black pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Optional Topping
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (or gluten-free alternative)
Instructions
- Prepare the broccoli: Wash and chop the broccoli into bite-sized florets. Lightly steam or blanch them until just tender but still vibrant green to preserve texture and nutrients.
- Sauté aromatics: Heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and minced garlic (natural) and sauté until fragrant and soft, forming the savory base for the sauce.
- Make the creamy sauce: Sprinkle the flour over the sautéed onion and garlic, stirring constantly for about 1-2 minutes to cook the flour lightly. Gradually whisk in the plant-based milk and vegetable broth, stirring until the mixture thickens. Add the plant-based cheese in small portions, stirring continuously until melted. Stir in the natural gelling agent to set the sauce evenly.
- Combine ingredients and season: Gently fold the steamed broccoli into the creamy sauce. Season the mixture with salt, black pepper, and apple cider vinegar (natural) to balance and brighten the flavors.
- Bake the casserole: Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish. If using, sprinkle breadcrumbs or gluten-free alternative on top for a crunchy finish. Bake in a preheated oven at 180°C (350°F) for 25 to 30 minutes until bubbly and golden on top.
Notes
- Use fresh broccoli for the best texture and flavor.
- Do not overcook the broccoli; steam only until just tender to avoid a mushy casserole.
- Melt plant-based cheese slowly over low heat to prevent separation.
- For a crunchy topping, substitute breadcrumbs with crushed nuts or seeds.
- Let the casserole rest for a few minutes after baking to allow flavors to meld.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Appetizers
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 220
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 300mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 7g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: broccoli cheese casserole, plant-based casserole, creamy broccoli bake, vegan casserole, family-friendly casserole
