This Cauliflower & Broccoli Bake is a healthy, oven-baked veggie dish made with tender vegetables, creamy sauce, and melted cheese. Perfect for weeknight dinners, meal prep, or a comforting side dish. Easy to customize, budget-friendly, and family-approved this veggie bake proves healthy food can still be cozy and delicious.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy oven-baked recipe
- Family-friendly and comforting
- Budget-friendly ingredients
- Customizable with different cheeses or add-ins
Ingredients
For the Vegetable Bake
- 3 cups cauliflower florets
- 3 cups broccoli florets
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
For the Sauce
- 1 cup milk (or unsweetened plant milk)
- 2 tablespoons butter or olive oil
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- ¾ cup shredded cheddar or mozzarella cheese
Optional Topping
- ¼ cup breadcrumbs
- 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a baking dish.
- Steam or boil cauliflower and broccoli for 3–4 minutes until just tender; drain well.
- In a saucepan over medium heat, melt butter. Whisk in flour and cook for 1 minute.
- Slowly whisk in milk until smooth.
- Add garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Simmer until slightly thickened.
- Stir in shredded cheese until melted.
- Add vegetables to the baking dish and pour sauce evenly over the top.
- Sprinkle with breadcrumbs and Parmesan if using.
- Bake for 25–30 minutes until bubbly and lightly golden.
- Let cool for 5 minutes before serving.
Equipment
- Baking dish
- Saucepan
- Whisk
- Mixing spoon
- Knife and cutting board
Tips & Variations
- Low-carb: Skip breadcrumbs or use crushed pork rinds.
- Extra protein: Add cooked chicken, turkey, or chickpeas.
- Vegan version: Use plant-based butter, milk, and cheese.
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 350°F for best texture.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve as a main with a side salad
- Pair with grilled chicken or salmon
- Serve alongside roasted potatoes or rice
- Garnish with fresh herbs for presentation
Nutrition Facts (Approximate per Serving)
- Calories: 360
- Protein: 18g
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Fat: 22g
Conclusion
This Cauliflower & Broccoli Bake is the ultimate comfort-food-meets-healthy recipe. Creamy, cheesy, and packed with vegetables, it’s easy enough for weeknights and impressive enough for guests. Save it, print it, and share it with anyone who loves cozy veggie dishes.
FAQ – Cauliflower & Broccoli Bake
Can I freeze this recipe?
Yes, freeze after baking and cooling for up to 2 months.
How do I make this ahead of time?
Assemble the bake up to 24 hours in advance, cover, and refrigerate before baking.
Can I use a different cheese?
Absolutely Gruyère, Monterey Jack, or a dairy-free cheese all work well.
How do I keep the bake from getting watery?
Make sure vegetables are well-drained before baking.
Can I make this gluten-free?
Yes, use gluten-free flour and breadcrumbs or skip the topping.