Why Make This Recipe
Cauliflower and Broccoli Casserole with Bacon is a delightful dish that brings together the earthy flavors of veggies and the savory crispiness of bacon. This casserole is not just a side dish; it can also steal the show as a hearty main course. It’s perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or any gathering where comfort food is welcome.
This recipe is easy to follow, combines simple ingredients, and offers a fantastic opportunity to add more vegetables to your diet. Plus, the creamy cheese sauce melds beautifully with the crispy topping, making each bite a taste sensation.
Equipment Needed for Cauliflower and Broccoli Casserole with Bacon
To prepare this comforting casserole effectively, you’ll need a few key pieces of equipment:
- A large pot for boiling vegetables
- A large Dutch oven for cooking the sauce
- A 9 by 13 inch baking dish for the final casserole
- Measuring cups and spoons for accuracy
- A sharp knife for chopping
- A mixing bowl for combining ingredients
- A whisk for stirring the sauce
- Aluminum foil to cover the baking dish while cooking
What You Need to Make Cauliflower and Broccoli Casserole with Bacon
- 4 Tbsp. salted butter, plus more for the baking dish
- 1 tsp. kosher salt, plus more to taste
- 5 cups cauliflower florets
- 5 cups broccoli florets
- 2 cups crushed butter crackers
- 1/2 tsp. paprika
- 6 slices bacon
- 2 garlic cloves, finely chopped
- 3 Tbsp. all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp. ground mustard
- 1 tsp. grated lemon zest
- 1/4 tsp. cayenne pepper
- 2 1/2 cups whole milk
- 4 oz. cream cheese, at room temperature, cubed
- 2 cups grated mild cheddar cheese
How to Cook Cauliflower and Broccoli Casserole with Bacon Step by Step
First, preheat your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit. While the oven heats, butter your 9 by 13 inch baking dish generously. In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Once boiling, add the cauliflower florets and cook them for about 2 minutes. After that, add the broccoli florets to the pot and let everything cook until both vegetables are crisp tender, which should take an additional 2 to 3 minutes. Drain the vegetables and let them cool.
While the vegetables are cooling, melt 2 tablespoons of salted butter in a small bowl. Combine the melted butter with the crushed butter crackers and paprika, mixing thoroughly. Set this mixture aside for topping the casserole later.
Next, take your large Dutch oven and cook the bacon over medium heat, turning occasionally, until it becomes crispy, roughly 8 minutes. Once cooked, remove the bacon from the pot and place it on paper towels to drain any excess grease. Once cool enough to handle, chop the bacon into small pieces and set them aside.
Now, pour out the remaining bacon fat from the pot but remember to reserve it. Wipe down the pot to clean it, then return 1 tablespoon of the reserved bacon fat to the pot along with the remaining 2 tablespoons of salted butter. As the butter melts, add the finely chopped garlic cloves to the pot and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
In this pot, whisk in 1 teaspoon of kosher salt along with the ground mustard, grated lemon zest, and cayenne pepper. Slowly add the whole milk while whisking to ensure a smooth mixture. Bring this to a simmer and continue whisking until the sauce thickens, which should take about 3 minutes. Once thickened, remove the pot from the heat and whisk in the cream cheese until the mixture is smooth and creamy. Finally, stir in the grated cheddar cheese until it is well combined.
With your cheesy sauce ready, fold in the broccoli, cauliflower, and crisp bacon until everything is well coated. Carefully transfer this delightful mixture to your prepared baking dish and make sure it spreads evenly.
Before placing your dish in the oven, sprinkle the reserved crushed cracker mixture generously on top. Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for about 20 minutes or until it’s bubbling. After that, remove the foil and continue baking for another 20 to 25 minutes until the top becomes golden brown and crispy. Once done, let the casserole sit for 15 minutes to cool slightly before serving.
How to Make Cauliflower and Broccoli Casserole with Bacon
Making this casserole is all about layering flavors and textures. Begin with tender veggies, cooked just right, and combine them with a rich, creamy sauce. The addition of crispy bacon enhances the dish, adding a delightful crunch. You’ll find that baking it allows all the flavors to meld together perfectly.
When serving, portion out the casserole and let it shine on your table. It’s a crowd-pleaser that everyone will enjoy. Consider mixing it up by adjusting the seasoning to suit your personal taste.
How to Serve Cauliflower and Broccoli Casserole with Bacon
This beautiful casserole can be served as a main dish or a side. If you’re serving it as a main, consider a simple salad on the side to balance out the meal. If it’s a side dish, it pairs wonderfully with grilled meats, roasted chicken, or a savory pork dish. Serving it warm ensures that the flavors remain vibrant.
Consider garnishing each plate with fresh herbs like parsley or chives for an extra touch of flavor and color. It adds an appealing look to your dish and a hint of freshness.
What to Serve with Cauliflower and Broccoli Casserole with Bacon
For a well-rounded meal, consider serving the casserole alongside:
- A simple green salad drizzled with a vinaigrette
- Roasted garlic bread or dinner rolls for scooping up the casserole
- Grilled chicken or steak for protein
- Steamed asparagus or green beans for additional veggies
The key is to balance the richness of the casserole with lighter, fresher sides.
How to Store Cauliflower and Broccoli Casserole with Bacon
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The casserole will keep well for about 3 to 4 days. Be sure to let it cool completely before storing to maintain freshness.
For longer storage, you can freeze the casserole. Wrap individual portions tightly in plastic wrap followed by foil to prevent freezer burn. It’s best used within 2 to 3 months for optimal taste.
Tips to Make Cauliflower and Broccoli Casserole with Bacon
To get the most out of this dish, consider these handy tips:
- Don’t overcook the vegetables during the boiling phase. They should be crisp-tender for the best texture after baking.
- Use freshly grated cheese instead of pre-shredded for a creamier melt.
- Feel free to swap in or out different cheeses like gouda or mozzarella for a unique twist.
- Adding a sprinkle of toasted breadcrumbs on top can add extra crunch if you like!
Variation
If you want to mix things up a bit, consider adding other vegetables like carrots or bell peppers to the mix. Substituting turkey bacon or leaving out the bacon altogether can create a delightful vegetarian version. You can also add herbs like thyme or rosemary for extra flavor.
Best Time to Make Cauliflower and Broccoli Casserole with Bacon
This casserole is perfect for any time of year. It shines particularly during holiday seasons or family gatherings when comfort food is king. Preparing it ahead of time can make your meal planning much simpler.
It’s also a great dish to enjoy during the colder months when you crave warm, hearty meals. However, it’s just as delightful during casual summer barbecues when fresh vegetables are in season.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making this casserole, steer clear of these common pitfalls:
- Overcooking the vegetables can lead to a mushy texture in the final dish.
- Not allowing the casserole to rest before serving can result in a soupy consistency.
- Forgetting to season adequately can leave the dish bland. Don’t hesitate to taste and adjust as necessary!
Nutritional Notes
This casserole includes a variety of vegetables, which provide essential vitamins and minerals. However, keep in mind that bacon and creamy sauces can increase the calorie count. If you’re watching your diet, consider using low-fat cream cheese and reducing the amount of cheese overall.
FAQs
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the casserole a day in advance. Just assemble it, cover it, and refrigerate. Bake it just before serving.
What can I do with leftover casserole?
Leftovers are excellent! You can reheat them in the oven or microwave. They also work well in omelets or as a filling for wraps.
Can I use frozen vegetables instead?
Absolutely! Frozen cauliflower and broccoli can be used; just make sure they are thawed and drained to avoid excess moisture.
Conclusion
Cauliflower and Broccoli Casserole with Bacon is an irresistibly comforting dish that combines healthy veggies with rich flavors. Whether you’re serving it at a family dinner or a casual gathering, it’s bound to be a hit. With just a straightforward recipe and some amazing ingredients, you can create a dish that is both satisfying and delicious. Enjoy every comforting bite!
