Description
Broccoli Spinach Casserole is a creamy, nutrient-packed dish featuring fresh broccoli and spinach combined with plant-based cheese and a natural gelling agent. This comforting casserole is easy to prepare, family-friendly, and perfect for busy weeknights or relaxed weekend dinners, delivering a lush texture and satisfying flavor everyone will enjoy.
Ingredients
Scale
Vegetables
- 2 cups fresh broccoli florets
- 3 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped
- 1 medium onion, finely diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Sauce and Creaminess
- 1 cup plant-based cheese, shredded
- 2 cups creamy plant-based milk
- 1 tablespoon vegetarian Worcestershire sauce (natural)
- 1 teaspoon natural gelling agent (e.g., agar, carrageenan, or pectin)
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
- A pinch of nutmeg
Topping
- 1 cup panko or breadcrumbs (plant-based)
- Extra plant-based cheese for sprinkling
Instructions
- Prepare the Vegetables: Wash and chop the broccoli into bite-sized florets and roughly chop the spinach. Lightly steam the broccoli until tender but still bright and firm, then set both vegetables aside.
- Cook the Onion and Garlic: In a large skillet, sauté the finely diced onion and minced garlic over medium heat until soft and fragrant, forming the savory base for the casserole.
- Make the Creamy Sauce: Stir in the plant-based milk, plant-based cheese, vegetarian Worcestershire sauce (natural), salt, pepper, and nutmeg into the skillet. Gradually whisk in the natural gelling agent until the sauce thickens into a smooth, luscious texture.
- Combine All Ingredients: Mix the steamed broccoli and fresh spinach into the creamy sauce, ensuring everything is evenly coated. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed.
- Assemble and Bake: Transfer the mixture into a greased casserole dish. Evenly sprinkle the top with panko or breadcrumbs and extra plant-based cheese. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 25-30 minutes until bubbly and the topping is golden brown.
Notes
- Avoid overcooking broccoli to maintain a pleasant bite and prevent mushiness.
- Gradually whisk in the natural gelling agent to ensure a smooth sauce without lumps.
- Taste the sauce before baking and add extra vegetarian Worcestershire sauce (natural) if more umami depth is desired.
- Mix a little olive oil with the breadcrumbs for a golden, crisp topping.
- Let the casserole rest for 5-10 minutes after baking to firm up and enhance flavors.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Appetizers
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Vegetarian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 250mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: broccoli casserole, spinach casserole, plant-based cheese casserole, vegetarian casserole, creamy vegetable bake
