This Broccoli and Cauliflower Casserole is a comforting, hearty dish perfect for a family meal. With tender vegetables, a rich and creamy sauce, and a golden, cheesy topping, it’s no wonder you make this casserole every weekend! The addition of diced pear adds a hint of sweetness that balances the savory flavors, making it a unique and delicious twist on a classic vegetable casserole. Let’s dive into this delightful recipe that’s sure to impress!
Why You’ll Love This Casserole
This casserole is packed with nutritious vegetables like broccoli, cauliflower, and potatoes, all smothered in a creamy sauce and topped with melted mozzarella. The combination of herbs and the unexpected sweetness from the pear add a gourmet touch to this comforting dish. It’s easy to prepare, can be made ahead, and is perfect for a cozy weekend meal or a delicious side dish.
Ingredients (Serves 6-8)
- Potatoes: 1.75 lbs (800 g), peeled and cut into small pieces
- Cauliflower: 1, cut into florets
- Broccoli: 1, cut into florets
- Salt: 1 tablespoon, plus additional to taste
- Olive Oil: For cooking
- Pear: 1, diced
- Carrot: 1, diced
- Black Pepper: To taste
- Butter: For greasing and cooking
- Flour: 3 tablespoons (24 g)
- Vegetable or Chicken Stock: 2 cups (480 ml)
- Milk: 1/2 cup (120 ml)
- Basil: To taste
- French Herbs: To taste
- Mozzarella: 1/2 cup (60 g), shredded
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: 220
- Protein: 8 g
- Carbohydrates: 30 g
- Dietary Fiber: 5 g
- Sugars: 6 g
- Fat: 8 g
- Saturated Fat: 4 g
- Cholesterol: 20 mg
- Sodium: 450 mg
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Vegetables
- Peel and cut the potatoes into small pieces. This will help them cook evenly and blend well with the other vegetables.
- Cut the cauliflower and broccoli into florets, ensuring they are roughly the same size for even cooking.
- Dice the carrot and pear into small, bite-sized pieces. The pear will add a subtle sweetness that pairs beautifully with the vegetables.
Step 2: Cook the Vegetables
- Boil the potatoes in salted water until tender, about 10-15 minutes. Drain and set aside.
- In a large pot, bring water to a boil with 1 tablespoon of salt. Add the cauliflower and broccoli florets and cook until just tender, about 5 minutes. Be careful not to overcook, as they will continue to cook in the oven.
- Drain the cauliflower and broccoli and set aside. This step helps maintain their bright color and texture.
Step 3: Prepare the Sauce
- In a saucepan, melt 3 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the flour and stir constantly for about 1 minute to create a roux. This will help thicken the sauce.
- Gradually whisk in the vegetable or chicken stock, followed by the milk. Continue to cook, stirring constantly, until the sauce thickens, about 5-7 minutes.
- Season the sauce with salt, black pepper, basil, and French herbs to taste. Adjust the seasoning as needed to suit your taste.
Step 4: Assemble the Casserole
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Grease a large baking dish with butter to prevent sticking and add extra flavor.
- Layer the potatoes, cauliflower, broccoli, diced pear, and carrot in the baking dish. Spread them out evenly to ensure every bite has a mix of all the vegetables.
- Pour the prepared sauce evenly over the vegetables, ensuring they are all coated. The sauce will seep into the vegetables as it bakes, creating a creamy, flavorful casserole.
- Sprinkle the top with shredded mozzarella cheese. This will create a golden, bubbly crust that’s hard to resist.
Step 5: Bake the Casserole
- Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 25 minutes, or until the cheese is golden brown and bubbly. The vegetables should be tender and the sauce should be thickened.
- Remove from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving. This helps the casserole set and makes it easier to serve.
Step 6: Serve
- Serve hot, garnished with a pinch of oregano and a dash of black pepper if desired. This casserole pairs well with a simple green salad or crusty bread.
Tips for Perfect Broccoli and Cauliflower Casserole
- Prevent Overcooking: Be careful not to overcook the broccoli and cauliflower during the boiling step, as they will continue to cook in the oven.
- Customize Your Sauce: Feel free to add a bit of grated Parmesan or cheddar cheese to the sauce for extra richness and flavor.
- Make It Ahead: You can assemble the casserole up to a day in advance. Just cover and refrigerate, then bake when ready to serve.
This Broccoli and Cauliflower Casserole is a delicious and versatile dish that’s perfect for any meal. With its creamy sauce, tender vegetables, and golden cheesy topping, it’s sure to become a favorite in your household. Enjoy the comforting flavors of this delightful casserole with family and friends!