Description

This Creamy Loaded Cauliflower and Broccoli Casserole Delight is a comforting and nutritious dish that combines tender cauliflower and vibrant broccoli florets with a rich and creamy cheese sauce. Featuring shredded cheddar, cream cheese, and sour cream, the casserole is seasoned with garlic and onion powders, complemented by smoky bacon, and topped with crispy panko breadcrumbs and fresh green onions for a satisfying crunch and burst of flavor. Perfect as a hearty side dish or a standalone vegetarian-friendly main when bacon is omitted.

Ingredients

Scale

Vegetables

4 cups Cauliflower Florets
4 cups Broccoli Florets

Dairy & Cheese

2 cups Shredded Cheddar Cheese
8 oz Cream Cheese
1 cup Sour Cream
1/2 cup Milk

Seasonings

1 tsp Garlic Powder
1 tsp Onion Powder
1 tsp Salt
1/2 tsp Black Pepper

Additional Ingredients

4 slices Cooked Bacon
2 tbsp Green Onions (for garnish)
1 cup Panko Breadcrumbs (optional for crunch)

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Instructions

Preheat and Prepare Vegetables: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Meanwhile, chop the cauliflower and broccoli into bite-sized florets and set aside.
Make the Creamy Cheese Sauce: In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, sour cream, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix well until you achieve a smooth, creamy consistency.
Combine Vegetables and Cheese Mixture: Add the cauliflower and broccoli florets into the cheese sauce. Stir thoroughly to evenly coat all the pieces with the creamy mixture.
Add Bacon and Cheese: Chop the cooked bacon into small pieces and fold it into the vegetable and cheese mixture. Then fold in half of the shredded cheddar cheese, reserving the rest for topping.
Assemble the Casserole: Transfer the combined mixture into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish, spreading it out evenly. Sprinkle the remaining shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top of the casserole for a melty, cheesy crust.
Add Toppings: If using, sprinkle the panko breadcrumbs evenly over the cheese layer to add a crispy finish. This step is optional but recommended for added texture.
Bake the Casserole: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes until the casserole is bubbly and the breadcrumbs are golden brown.
Garnish and Serve: Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Sprinkle the chopped green onions on top for a fresh, colorful garnish. Serve warm and enjoy!

Notes

You can omit the bacon or substitute with a plant-based bacon alternative to make the dish vegetarian.
If you prefer a smoother texture, steam the cauliflower and broccoli lightly before mixing with the cheese sauce.
Panko breadcrumbs add a lovely crunch but can be replaced with crushed cornflakes or omitted for a gluten-free option.
For extra flavor, add a pinch of smoked paprika or cayenne pepper to the cheese sauce.
This casserole keeps well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and can be reheated in the oven or microwave.