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Broccoli Cauliflower Casserole

This Broccoli Cauliflower Casserole is the ultimate comfort food — warm, creamy, and loaded with cheesy goodness. Tender florets of broccoli and cauliflower are baked together in a rich homemade cheese sauce, topped with buttery breadcrumbs for that perfect golden crunch. It’s a family-favorite side dish that complements any meal, from holiday feasts to cozy weeknight dinners.
Prep Time20 minutes
Cook Time35 minutes
Total Time55 minutes
Servings: 8

Ingredients

Main Ingredients:

  • 2 bunches broccoli cut into florets
  • 1 head cauliflower cut into florets
  • 4 tablespoons butter
  • 1 onion diced
  • 1 teaspoon minced garlic
  • ¼ cup flour
  • 14 ounces chicken broth
  • ½ cup milk
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • ¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper optional, for heat
  • 8 ounces shredded sharp cheddar cheese

Topping:

  • 1 tablespoon melted butter
  • ⅓ cup breadcrumbs

Instructions

Preheat the Oven:

  • Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9x13-inch baking dish.

Prepare the Vegetables:

  • Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Add broccoli and cauliflower florets, and cook for 3–4 minutes until just tender-crisp. Drain well and set aside.

Make the Cheese Sauce:

  • In a large saucepan, melt 4 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook until softened, about 3–4 minutes. Stir in minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds.

Create the Roux:

  • Sprinkle the flour over the butter mixture and whisk for 1–2 minutes, forming a thick paste. Gradually add the chicken broth and milk, whisking continuously until smooth.

Season and Add Cheese:

  • Add salt, black pepper, and crushed red pepper. Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese, reserving a small handful for topping. Mix until melted and smooth.

Assemble the Casserole:

  • Place the cooked broccoli and cauliflower into the prepared baking dish. Pour the cheese sauce evenly over the vegetables and stir gently to combine.

Add the Topping:

  • Mix the melted butter with breadcrumbs, then sprinkle evenly over the top of the casserole. Add the reserved cheese if desired.

Bake:

  • Bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbling.

Serve:

  • Allow to cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.

Notes

  • Make-Ahead Option: Assemble the casserole up to a day in advance, cover, and refrigerate. Bake just before serving.
  • Add-Ins: For extra flavor, mix in crumbled bacon, diced ham, or sautéed mushrooms.
  • Cheese Choices: Try mixing cheddar with mozzarella or Gruyère for an even creamier texture.
  • Vegetarian Version: Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.