Cheesy Cauliflower Broccoli Bake

Indulge in the creamy goodness of a Cheesy Cauliflower Broccoli Bake! This hearty recipe combines the nutritional power of cauliflower and broccoli with a rich, cheesy sauce. Perfect for family dinners or gatherings, it's both satisfying and guilt-free. Packed with vitamins and flavor, this dish transforms simple ingredients into a deliciously comforting meal. Discover how easy it is to create this delightful bake that will leave everyone craving more!

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Ingredients

1 medium head of cauliflower, cut into bite-sized florets

1 medium head of broccoli, cut into bite-sized florets

2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese

1 cup grated Parmesan cheese

1 cup heavy cream

1 cup whole milk

2 tablespoons unsalted butter

3 cloves garlic, minced

1 teaspoon onion powder

1 teaspoon mustard powder

½ teaspoon smoked paprika

Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

½ cup breadcrumbs (optional, for crispy topping)

Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9x13-inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray to prevent sticking.

Prepare the Vegetables: In a large pot, bring salted water to a rolling boil. Add the cauliflower and broccoli florets, blanching them for about 3-4 minutes until they are just tender yet retain a slight crunch. Carefully drain the vegetables and rinse them under cold water to halt the cooking process. Set aside to drain thoroughly.

Make the Cheese Sauce: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter until bubbly. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant, taking care not to burn it. Slowly pour in the heavy cream and milk, stirring until combined, and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.

Incorporate the Cheeses: Gradually whisk in the shredded cheddar and grated Parmesan cheese, stirring continuously until the cheeses are fully melted and create a creamy sauce. Once combined, add the onion powder, mustard powder, smoked paprika, and season with salt and pepper to taste. Remove from heat.

Combine the Vegetables and Sauce: In a large mixing bowl, add the blanched cauliflower and broccoli florets. Pour the luscious cheese sauce over the vegetables and gently fold until every piece of vegetable is evenly coated with the sauce.

Transfer to Baking Dish: Carefully pour the cheesy vegetable mixture into the prepared baking dish. If you’re opting for the crispy topping, sprinkle the breadcrumbs evenly over the top for added texture.

Bake the Dish: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the top layer is golden brown and the sauce is bubbling around the edges.

Serve and Garnish: Once the bake is done, allow it to rest for about 5 minutes to set slightly. Just before serving, sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley to add a vibrant touch and enhance the dish's flavor profile.

Prep Time, Total Time, Servings:

15 minutes | 45 minutes | 6 servings