Cheesy Broccoli Vegetable Casserole

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🧀 Cheesy Broccoli Vegetable Casserole

📝 Description

Cheesy Broccoli Vegetable Casserole is a comforting, oven-baked dish packed with tender broccoli, mixed vegetables, and a rich, creamy cheese sauce. It’s perfect as a hearty side dish or a satisfying vegetarian main course. This casserole is family-friendly, easy to prepare, and ideal for weeknight dinners, potlucks, or holiday meals.

⏱️ Prep & Cook Time

  • Prep Time: 15 minutes

  • Cook Time: 30–35 minutes

  • Total Time: 45–50 minutes

🍽️ Servings

  • Serves: 6 people

🧾 Ingredients

Vegetables

  • 3 cups broccoli florets (fresh or frozen)

  • 1 cup carrots, diced

  • 1 cup cauliflower florets

  • ½ cup bell peppers, chopped (optional)

Cheese Sauce

  • 2 tablespoons butter

  • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour

  • 1½ cups milk (whole or low-fat)

  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

  • ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese

  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder

  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper

  • Salt to taste

Topping (Optional but Recommended)

  • ½ cup breadcrumbs or crushed crackers

  • 1 tablespoon melted butter

  • 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese

👩‍🍳 Instructions

  1. Preheat Oven
    Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a baking dish.

  2. Prepare Vegetables
    Steam or blanch broccoli, carrots, and cauliflower for 3–4 minutes until slightly tender. Drain well.

  3. Make the Cheese Sauce

    • Melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat.

    • Whisk in flour and cook for 1 minute.

    • Slowly add milk while whisking until smooth.

    • Cook until thickened, then reduce heat.

    • Stir in cheddar, mozzarella, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until melted.

  4. Assemble Casserole
    Combine vegetables with cheese sauce and spread evenly in the baking dish.

  5. Add Topping
    Mix breadcrumbs, melted butter, and Parmesan. Sprinkle over casserole.

  6. Bake
    Bake uncovered for 30–35 minutes, or until bubbly and golden on top.

  7. Serve
    Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.

💡 Notes & Tips

  • Use frozen vegetables for convenience—just thaw and drain well.

  • For extra protein, add cooked chicken, tofu, or chickpeas.

  • Swap cheddar for Gruyère or Monterey Jack for a flavor twist.

  • To make it gluten-free, use gluten-free flour and breadcrumbs.

  • Avoid watery casserole by draining vegetables thoroughly.

🥗 Nutritional Information (Per Serving – Approximate)

  • Calories: 280–320 kcal

  • Protein: 12–14 g

  • Carbohydrates: 18–22 g

  • Fat: 18–20 g

  • Fiber: 4–5 g

  • Calcium: 25% DV

(Values may vary based on ingredients used)

🌱 Health Benefits

  • Broccoli & vegetables provide fiber, vitamins A, C, and K

  • Cheese & milk support bone health with calcium and protein

  • Vegetarian-friendly and customizable for balanced nutrition

  • Helps increase vegetable intake in a delicious way

❓ Q & A

Q: Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
A: Yes! Assemble it, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.

Q: Can I freeze Cheesy Broccoli Casserole?
A: Yes, freeze unbaked or baked for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight before reheating.

Q: How do I make it healthier?
A: Use low-fat cheese, skim milk, and add more vegetables.

Q: What can I serve with this casserole?
A: It pairs well with grilled chicken, baked fish, rice, or a fresh green salad.

Q: Can I make it vegan?
A: Yes—use plant-based butter, milk, and vegan cheese alternatives.

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