Description
Creamed Broccoli Casserole is a warm, creamy, and comforting side dish featuring tender broccoli coated in a luscious, plant-based cheese sauce thickened with a natural gelling agent. This easy recipe combines simple ingredients to create a smooth texture perfect for any meal, from family dinners to elegant gatherings.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 4 cups fresh broccoli florets
- 1 cup plant-based cheese, shredded
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon vegetarian Worcestershire sauce (natural)
- 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar (natural)
- 1 tablespoon natural gelling agent
- 1 cup plant-based milk
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/8 teaspoon ground nutmeg
Optional Topping
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Broccoli: Start by steaming fresh broccoli florets until just tender but still vibrant green. This helps keep them crisp-tender to balance the creamy sauce perfectly.
- Sauté Aromatics: In a skillet, gently cook finely chopped onions and minced garlic in a little olive oil until they become soft and fragrant. This forms a rich flavor base for the sauce.
- Make the Cream Sauce: Add plant-based milk, vegetarian Worcestershire sauce (natural), apple cider vinegar (natural), and natural gelling agent to the skillet with onions and garlic. Stir continuously while heating gently to create a smooth, thick sauce. Sprinkle in plant-based cheese, letting it melt evenly to infuse creaminess.
- Combine Broccoli and Sauce: Carefully fold the steamed broccoli into the creamy sauce, ensuring every floret is coated beautifully. Season with salt, pepper, and a pinch of nutmeg for warmth.
- Bake Until Golden: Transfer the mixture to a casserole dish, top with breadcrumbs if you like, and bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 20 to 25 minutes until bubbly and golden on top. Let it cool slightly before serving to set the luscious texture.
Notes
- Use fresh broccoli rather than frozen for vibrant color and texture.
- Adjust sauce thickness by varying the amount of natural gelling agent for desired consistency.
- Season gradually to avoid overpowering the delicate broccoli flavor.
- Allow plant-based cheese enough time to melt fully for a smooth, silky sauce.
- Monitor baking time to prevent over-browning of the casserole top.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Appetizers
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 320mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 7g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: creamed broccoli casserole, plant-based cheese, creamy broccoli side dish, vegetarian casserole, dairy-free, comforting side dish
