Broccoli Cauliflower Cheddar Bake
This creamy, cheesy bake is a comforting crowd-pleaser with crispy golden edges and a bubbly, melty center.
Total: 45 minPrep: 15 minCook: 30 min6 servingsDifficulty: Easy⭐ 4.7 (123+ ratings)$
Ingredients
Servings:
- 2 cups fresh broccoli florets
- 2 cups fresh cauliflower florets
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup milk
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 2 tablespoons melted butter
Steps
- 1 Preheat oven to 375°F.
- 2 Steam broccoli and cauliflower until tender, about 5 minutes. Drain well.
- 3 In a saucepan, sauté onion and garlic until soft.
- 4 Whisk flour into the onion mixture, cooking for 1 minute.
- 5 Gradually add heavy cream and milk, stirring constantly until thickened.
- 6 Stir in salt, pepper, paprika, and cheeses until melted.
- 7 Combine the vegetable mixture with the cheese sauce in a greased baking dish.
- 8 Mix breadcrumbs with melted butter and sprinkle over the top.
- 9 Bake for 30 minutes or until bubbly and golden.
- 10 Let stand for 5 minutes before serving.
Equipment
- 9x13 inch baking dish
- steamer or microwave
Variations
- Add cooked chicken or bacon for a heartier version.
- Substitute Gruyère for cheddar for a nutty twist.
Substitutions
- Use almond milk for a lighter option.
- Replace breadcrumbs with crushed cornflakes for gluten-free.
Pairings
- Serve with a sparkling water or a light Chardonnay.
Nutrition
Calories:
320 kcal
Fat:
22g fat
Carbs:
16g carbohydrates
Protein:
10g protein
Fiber:
3g fiber
Sugar:
2g sugar
Sodium:
300mg sodium
Tips
- For extra crispiness, broil for 1-2 minutes at the end, watching closely to avoid burning.
- Feel free to use frozen broccoli and cauliflower for convenience, just ensure they're well-drained.
Storage
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in a 350°F oven until warm.
Freezing: Freezes well for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and bake covered at 350°F for 30 minutes, then uncover and bake another 10 minutes.
Serving Suggestions
- Pairs well with a crisp green salad or garlic bread.
FAQ
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! Assemble the bake up to a day ahead and refrigerate uncovered. Cover with foil before baking to prevent the top from getting too brown.