Description
This Broccoli Cheese Casserole is a creamy, comforting, and nutritious plant-based meal perfect for busy weeknights. It features fresh broccoli blended with melted plant-based cheese (plant-based), enriched with a smooth sauce using plant-based milk and a natural gelling agent to hold the casserole beautifully. Easy to prepare and customizable, it offers a satisfying blend of flavor and texture that reheats well for meal prep.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 500g fresh broccoli, chopped into bite-sized florets
- 200g shredded plant-based cheese (plant-based)
- 2 cups plant-based milk
- 2 tablespoons flour
- 1 tablespoon vegetarian Worcestershire sauce (natural)
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder (natural)
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder (natural)
- 1 teaspoon natural gelling agent
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Topping (Optional)
- 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs (optional)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for drizzling on breadcrumbs)
Instructions
- Prepare the Broccoli: Start by washing and chopping fresh broccoli into bite-sized florets. Steam or blanch the broccoli briefly until tender but still firm to maintain a lovely texture throughout the casserole.
- Make the Cheese Sauce: In a saucepan, heat olive oil and whisk in flour to form a roux. Slowly add plant-based milk while stirring constantly to avoid lumps. Stir in shredded plant-based cheese (plant-based), vegetarian Worcestershire sauce (natural), garlic powder (natural), and onion powder (natural) until melted and smooth. Add a pinch of natural gelling agent to help the sauce set beautifully.
- Combine Broccoli and Sauce: Fold the cooked broccoli into the cheese sauce, making sure every piece is well-coated. Pour the mixture into a lightly greased casserole dish, spreading evenly.
- Add the Topping and Bake: Sprinkle panko breadcrumbs mixed with a drizzle of olive oil over the top for a golden, crunchy crust. Bake in a preheated oven at 180°C (350°F) for about 25-30 minutes until bubbly and golden on top.
- Rest and Serve: Allow the casserole to cool for a few minutes before serving so it sets nicely and is easier to portion. Enjoy warm and creamy with your favorite side dishes.
Notes
- Use fresh, crisp broccoli for best texture and flavor.
- Do not overcook the broccoli; steam just until tender to avoid mushiness.
- Whisk sauce constantly during preparation to prevent lumps.
- Customize the topping by switching breadcrumbs for crushed nuts to make it gluten-free or add extra crunch.
- Let the casserole rest slightly before serving to help it hold shape and enhance flavors.
- 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: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 8g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: broccoli casserole, plant-based cheese casserole, vegan broccoli bake, gluten-free casserole, plant-based comfort food