This easy broccoli cauliflower casserole is a comforting and nourishing side dish. Loaded with fresh vegetables in a cheesy almond milk sauce, it's a dish even picky eaters will love.
1tablespoonchopped fresh parsleyoptional for serving
Instructions
Preheat the oven to 375°F. Lightly grease a 9 x 13-inch baking dish with olive oil.
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add 1 pound fresh broccoli florets and 1 pound fresh cauliflower florets, and cook for 2 minutes. Drain immediately and transfer the vegetables to a clean kitchen towel or paper towels to remove excess moisture. Transfer to the prepared baking dish.
In a medium saucepan, add 2 cups almond milk, 2 tablespoons cornstarch, 11 teaspoon onion powder, and1 teaspoon garlic powder. Whisk until smooth, then place over medium heat and simmer for a couple of minutes, until the sauce thickens.
Stir in 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese and season with Sea salt and pepper to taste. Once the cheese melts and the sauce is smooth, remove from the heat. Pour the sauce over the vegetables in the dish.
In a small bowl, combine 1/2 cup shredded cheddar, 1/3 cup panko breadcrumbs, and 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika. Toss until the breadcrumbs are lightly coated. Sprinkle the mixture evenly over the casserole.
Bake uncovered at 375°F for about 30 minutes, until bubbly and the topping is golden brown. If the topping needs additional color, broil for 1-2 minutes, watching carefully. Remove from the oven and let rest for 5-10 minutes.
Garnish with 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley, if desired. Serve warm.
Notes
Broil the vegetables until slightly tender: The veggies should be slightly tender but still firm. They'll finish cooking in the oven.
Finish in the broiler: For a crispier topping, I’ll broil the casserole for 1-2 minutes before serving. Keep an eye on it so it doesn’t burn.