Description
This Broccoli Cheese Casserole is a cozy, creamy, and crowd-pleasing plant-based dish that blends tender broccoli with melty plant-based cheese and a rich, flavorful sauce. Baked to a golden crust, it is perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings, delivering comfort and deliciousness in every bite.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 4 cups broccoli florets (fresh or frozen)
- 1 cup plant-based cheese (plant-based), shredded
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tablespoon vegetarian Worcestershire sauce (natural)
- 1 1/2 cups plant-based milk (plant-based)
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour (or gluten-free flour if desired)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (use gluten-free if needed)
- 1 teaspoon natural gelling agent
- 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
Instructions
- Prepare the Broccoli: Steam or blanch the broccoli florets just until tender but still vibrant and crisp. This preserves their color and texture and prevents overcooking during baking.
- Make the Creamy Sauce: In a saucepan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Sauté diced onion and minced garlic until translucent and aromatic. Sprinkle in the flour while stirring constantly to form a smooth roux. Gradually whisk in the plant-based milk and apple cider vinegar. Add vegetarian Worcestershire sauce (natural), salt, pepper, and the natural gelling agent. Cook and stir until the sauce thickens to a luscious, velvety consistency.
- Combine Broccoli and Sauce: Gently fold the steamed broccoli into the creamy sauce, ensuring all florets are well coated. Stir in the shredded plant-based cheese (plant-based) so it melts evenly throughout the mixture, adding creaminess.
- Assemble and Bake: Pour the broccoli-cheese mixture into a greased casserole dish. Sprinkle the breadcrumbs evenly over the top for a crunchy golden crust. Bake uncovered in a preheated oven at 180°C (350°F) for 25 to 30 minutes until bubbly and golden on top.
Notes
- Use fresh broccoli for best texture, but frozen broccoli works well if excess moisture is drained.
- Do not skip the natural gelling agent; it maintains perfect texture without heaviness.
- Sauté onions slowly to soften the flavor without bitterness.
- Panko breadcrumbs provide extra crunch; whole wheat breadcrumbs add more fiber.
- Allow the casserole to rest slightly after baking for easier slicing and better flavor melding.
- 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: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 24g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 7g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: broccoli casserole, plant-based cheese casserole, vegetarian casserole, easy broccoli recipe, family-friendly dinner, gluten free casserole
