Broccoli-Cauliflower Casserole

Broccoli-Cauliflower Casserole Recipe - USA

Region / culture: USA | Preparation time: 20 minutes | Cooking time: 30 minutes | Servings: 6

Introduction

Broccoli-Cauliflower Casserole is a delicious and comforting dish that is perfect for family dinners or holiday gatherings. This creamy and cheesy casserole is made with tender broccoli and cauliflower, mixed with a flavorful sauce, and topped with a crispy breadcrumb and cheese topping.

History

The origins of Broccoli-Cauliflower Casserole are not well-documented, but it is believed to have originated in the United States as a popular side dish. This casserole became a staple in many households due to its ease of preparation and delicious taste.

Ingredients

1 x 16 oz (454 g) package frozen cauliflower florets
1 x 16 oz (454 g) package frozen broccoli cut
1 large onion, chopped (1 cup)
2 tbsp margarine or butter
2 tbsp all-purpose flour
1 tsp salt
0.5 tsp garlic powder
0.5 tsp dried basil, crushed
0.25 tsp pepper
1.25 cup milk
2 x 3 oz (85 g) packages cream cheese with chives, cut up
0.75 cup soft breadcrumbs (about 1 slice of bread)
3 tbsp grated parmesan cheese
2 tbsp margarine or butter, melted

How to prepare

Cook the broccoli and cauliflower according to the package directions. Drain well.
Place the cooked vegetables in a large saucepan and set aside.
Meanwhile, cook the onion in 2 tbsp of margarine or butter until tender but not browned.
Stir in the flour, salt, garlic powder, basil, and pepper.
Add the milk and cook and stir until thickened and bubbly.
Add the cream cheese and stir until melted.
Stir the mixture into the vegetable mixture.
Transfer the mixture into a 2 qt (1.89 liter) casserole dish.
In a separate bowl, toss together the breadcrumbs, cheese, and the 2 tbsp of melted margarine or butter.
Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture over the vegetable mixture.
Bake, uncovered, in a preheated 350°F (177°C) oven for 25 to 30 minutes or until heated through.

Make-ahead tip

To make ahead, cover the unbaked casserole and refrigerate for up to 1 day. Bake as directed.
Alternatively, you can freeze the casserole for up to 1 month. Thaw the frozen casserole in the refrigerator overnight, then bake for 40 to 45 minutes or until heated through.

Variations

Add cooked bacon or ham for a smoky flavor.
Use different cheeses such as cheddar or Swiss for a different taste.
Substitute gluten-free breadcrumbs for a gluten-free version of the casserole.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to drain the cooked broccoli and cauliflower well to prevent the casserole from becoming too watery.

- You can add cooked chicken or ham to the casserole for a heartier dish.

- For a vegetarian version, you can substitute vegetable broth for the chicken broth.

- Feel free to customize the seasonings to suit your taste preferences.

Serving Suggestions

Broccoli-Cauliflower Casserole can be served as a side dish alongside roasted chicken, grilled steak, or baked fish. It pairs well with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables.

Cooking Techniques

The key to making a delicious Broccoli-Cauliflower Casserole is to cook the vegetables until they are tender but still slightly crisp. Be sure to not overcook them, as they will continue to cook in the oven.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you don't have frozen broccoli and cauliflower, you can use fresh vegetables instead. Simply steam or blanch them until they are tender before adding them to the casserole.

Make Ahead Tips

You can prepare the casserole ahead of time and refrigerate it for up to 1 day before baking. Alternatively, you can freeze the casserole for up to 1 month and bake it straight from the freezer.

Presentation Ideas

Serve the Broccoli-Cauliflower Casserole in a decorative casserole dish and garnish with fresh herbs such as parsley or chives. You can also sprinkle extra cheese on top for a more indulgent presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Broccoli-Cauliflower Casserole pairs well with a variety of main dishes such as roasted chicken, grilled pork chops, or baked salmon. It also goes well with a glass of white wine or sparkling water.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Leftover Broccoli-Cauliflower Casserole can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place the casserole in a preheated oven at 350°F (177°C) for 15-20 minutes or until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Broccoli-Cauliflower Casserole contains approximately 250 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Broccoli-Cauliflower Casserole contains approximately 20 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of Broccoli-Cauliflower Casserole contains approximately 12 grams of fat.

Proteins

Each serving of Broccoli-Cauliflower Casserole contains approximately 8 grams of protein.

Vitamins and minerals

Broccoli and cauliflower are rich in vitamins C, K, and B6, as well as folate, potassium, and fiber.

Alergens

This recipe contains dairy (butter, milk, cheese) and wheat (flour, breadcrumbs), which may be allergens for some individuals.

Summary

Broccoli-Cauliflower Casserole is a nutritious dish that provides a good source of vitamins, minerals, and fiber. However, it is also relatively high in fat and calories due to the creamy sauce and cheese topping.

Summary

Broccoli-Cauliflower Casserole is a delicious and comforting dish that is perfect for family dinners or holiday gatherings. This creamy and cheesy casserole is easy to make and can be customized with different ingredients to suit your taste preferences. Enjoy this tasty dish as a side or main course for a satisfying meal.

How did I get this recipe?

I have a clear recollection of the first time I saw this recipe for Broccoli-Cauliflower Casserole. It was a sunny afternoon, and I was visiting my dear friend Margie in her cozy kitchen. As soon as I walked in, the delicious aroma of baked vegetables filled the air, making my mouth water.

Margie greeted me with a warm smile and a hug, then led me to the kitchen where she was putting the finishing touches on her casserole. I watched in awe as she sprinkled breadcrumbs and shredded cheese on top, making it look even more appetizing.

"Would you like to try some, dear?" Margie asked, holding out a spoonful for me to taste. I eagerly accepted and was instantly hooked. The creamy sauce, the tender broccoli and cauliflower, the crunchy topping - it was a perfect combination of flavors and textures.

I couldn't help but ask Margie for the recipe, and she graciously obliged. As she wrote it down for me, she shared the story behind it. She had learned it from her own grandmother, who had passed it down through the generations. Margie had added her own twist to it over the years, making it her own signature dish.

I knew right then and there that I had to learn how to make this casserole myself. Margie offered to teach me, and we spent the rest of the afternoon cooking together, chatting and laughing as we chopped, stirred, and baked.

After a few tries, I finally mastered the recipe. I made it for my family that weekend, and they loved it just as much as I did. From then on, it became a staple in our household, a dish that I would make for special occasions and gatherings.

Over the years, I continued to perfect the recipe, adding my own little touches here and there. Sometimes I would use different cheeses or spices, or swap out the broccoli for other vegetables like asparagus or spinach. Each variation was a hit with my family and friends, who always asked for seconds.

As I shared the recipe with others, they too fell in love with it. I remember one time when my neighbor's daughter, Rachel, came over for dinner and couldn't stop raving about the casserole. She asked me to teach her how to make it, and I happily obliged.

Rachel was a quick learner, and soon she was making the casserole for her own family. She even started adding her own twists to the recipe, just like I had done with Margie's original version. It was heartwarming to see the tradition continue, passed down from one generation to the next.

As the years went by, I became known for my Broccoli-Cauliflower Casserole. Friends would request it for potlucks and parties, and I happily obliged, always happy to share a taste of my culinary heritage.

And now, as I sit here reminiscing about the recipe that has brought so much joy to my loved ones, I can't help but feel grateful for the wonderful memories and experiences it has given me. Cooking has always been a passion of mine, a way to express my creativity and love for those around me.

So here's to my beloved Broccoli-Cauliflower Casserole, a dish that has stood the test of time and brought generations together. May it continue to warm hearts and fill bellies for years to come. And may the tradition live on, passed down from one cook to another, just like it was for me.