Description
A cozy and comforting Creamed Broccoli Casserole featuring fresh broccoli with a rich, creamy sauce made from plant-based cheese, smoked turkey bacon, and a natural gelling agent. This versatile and easy-to-make casserole combines smoky, savory flavors and a smooth texture, perfect for weeknight dinners or festive gatherings.
Ingredients
Vegetables
- Fresh broccoli – 4 cups, cut into bite-sized florets
- Onion – 1 medium, finely chopped
- Garlic – 3 cloves, minced
Proteins & Dairy Alternatives
- Smoked turkey bacon – 6 slices, cooked and chopped
- Plant-based cheese (cheddar or preferred variety) – 1 cup shredded
Sauces & Liquids
- Vegetarian Worcestershire sauce (natural) – 1 tablespoon
- Milk alternative – 1 cup (such as almond milk or oat milk)
- Olive oil or butter alternative – 2 tablespoons
Thickening Agent & Seasonings
- Natural gelling agent – 1 teaspoon (such as pectin or agar)
- Salt – 1/2 teaspoon, or to taste
- Black pepper – 1/4 teaspoon, or to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the Broccoli: Wash and cut fresh broccoli into bite-sized florets. Blanch the broccoli in boiling water for 2-3 minutes to brighten its color and slightly soften it. Drain and set aside.
- Cook the Smoked Turkey Bacon: In a large skillet, heat olive oil or butter alternative over medium heat. Cook the smoked turkey bacon until crispy and golden. Remove from pan, drain on paper towels, and chop into smaller pieces.
- Sauté Aromatics: Using the same skillet, gently sauté the finely chopped onion and minced garlic until translucent and fragrant, creating a sweet and savory base for the cream sauce.
- Make the Cream Sauce: Add the plant-based cheese, milk alternative, vegetarian Worcestershire sauce (natural), salt, and pepper to the skillet with the onions and garlic. Stir continuously over low heat. Gradually add the natural gelling agent while stirring until the cheese melts and the sauce thickens into a smooth, creamy consistency.
- Combine All Ingredients: Mix the blanched broccoli and cooked smoked turkey bacon into the cream sauce. Stir gently until everything is evenly coated with the luscious sauce.
- Bake the Casserole: Transfer the mixture into a greased casserole dish. Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes or until bubbly and lightly golden on top.
Notes
- Avoid overcooking broccoli before baking to maintain a tender yet crisp texture.
- Use high-quality plant-based cheese for best melting and flavor.
- Add milk alternative gradually while stirring to ensure even sauce thickness and prevent lumps.
- Sautéing onions and garlic deeply enhances the flavor layers of the sauce.
- Smoked turkey bacon adds a smoky umami flavor that greatly elevates the dish.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Appetizers
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 220
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 350mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 10g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: creamed broccoli casserole, plant-based cheese, smoked turkey bacon, creamy broccoli bake, gluten free casserole, easy broccoli recipe