Cauliflower and Broccoli Vegetable Casserole with Garlic Sauce

For the Garlic Sauce:

• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour (use gluten-free flour if needed)
• 1 cup milk (whole milk works best for a creamy sauce, but you can use a dairy-free option if preferred)
• 1/2 cup heavy cream (for extra richness, can substitute with more milk if desired)
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for added flavor)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for a little heat)
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

How to Make Cauliflower and Broccoli Vegetable Casserole with Garlic Sauce

This casserole may sound fancy, but it’s actually quite simple to make! With just a few steps, you’ll have a delicious dish that’s perfect for any occasion.

1. Roast the Vegetables

Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). While the oven heats up, cut the cauliflower and broccoli into bite-sized florets. Toss the florets with 1 tablespoon of olive oil and season with a pinch of salt and pepper.

Spread the vegetables out in a single layer on a baking sheet. Roast for about 20-25 minutes, or until the vegetables are just tender and lightly browned on the edges. You want them to have a bit of texture, so don’t overcook them. This roasting step brings out the natural sweetness of the cauliflower and broccoli and gives them a delicious caramelized flavor.

2. Make the Garlic Sauce

While the vegetables are roasting, it’s time to make the creamy garlic sauce. Start by melting 3 tablespoons of butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1-2 minutes until fragrant, but be careful not to burn the garlic.

Next, whisk in 1 tablespoon of flour and cook for about 1 minute to form a roux. This will help thicken the sauce. Slowly pour in the milk, whisking continuously to ensure there are no lumps. Stir in the heavy cream and bring the mixture to a simmer.

Let the sauce simmer for 3-4 minutes until it thickens slightly. Once it reaches a creamy consistency, stir in the Parmesan cheese (if using), and season with salt, pepper, and crushed red pepper flakes. Continue to cook for another 2-3 minutes until the cheese melts and the sauce is smooth.

3. Combine the Roasted Vegetables with the Garlic Sauce

Once the cauliflower and broccoli are roasted, remove them from the oven and transfer them to a large casserole dish. Pour the creamy garlic sauce over the roasted vegetables and gently toss to coat evenly.

4. Bake the Casserole

After the vegetables are evenly coated in the garlic sauce, spread them out in the casserole dish and place the dish in the preheated oven. Bake for an additional 15-20 minutes until the sauce is bubbling and the top is golden brown. You can also sprinkle a little extra Parmesan cheese on top before baking for a crispy, cheesy crust.

5. Garnish and Serve

Once baked, remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color and a fresh flavor contrast. Serve immediately, and enjoy!

Tips for Perfecting Your Cauliflower and Broccoli Casserole

• Don’t Overcook the Vegetables: Roasting the broccoli and cauliflower beforehand is key to keeping them from getting too mushy in the casserole. Aim for just tender, not overcooked.
• Add Protein: If you want to make this dish more filling, consider adding some cooked chicken, turkey, or even crispy bacon bits to the casserole.
• Vary the Cheese: While Parmesan is great in this dish, you can also try cheddar, mozzarella, or a mix of cheeses for a different flavor profile.
• Make-Ahead Option: You can assemble the casserole in advance and store it in the fridge for up to 1 day before baking. Just add an extra 5-10 minutes to the baking time if baking from cold.
• Add Extra Veggies: Feel free to add in other vegetables, such as carrots, zucchini, or bell peppers, to enhance the flavor and nutrition of this dish.

Why This Cauliflower and Broccoli Casserole Works

This casserole strikes the perfect balance between health and comfort. The roasted cauliflower and broccoli provide all the nutrition you’d expect from these powerhouse vegetables, while the garlic sauce adds richness and depth. The sauce, with its creamy texture and savory garlic flavor, ties everything together beautifully, making it impossible to resist.

It’s a dish that works just as well as a side dish to grilled meats, roasted chicken, or even as a standalone vegetarian main course. The flavors are familiar but elevated, making this casserole ideal for both casual family dinners and more formal gatherings.

A Versatile and Delicious Dish for Any Meal

Whether you’re looking for a vegetarian side to complement your meal, a way to get your family to eat more vegetables, or simply craving a rich and creamy dish, this Cauliflower and Broccoli Vegetable Casserole with Garlic Sauce is the answer. It’s easy to make, packed with flavor, and guaranteed to be a hit at the dinner table.

Enjoy the creamy richness of the garlic sauce, the wholesome crunch of the roasted vegetables, and the satisfaction of knowing you’ve created a meal that’s both indulgent and nourishing.