Creamy Cheesy Broccoli Vegetable Casserole

by

Introduction

This creamy broccoli vegetable casserole is a warm, comforting dish packed with vibrant vegetables and smothered in a rich, cheesy sauce. It’s perfect for family dinners, holidays, potlucks, or when you want a hearty meatless meal. The combination of broccoli, cherry tomatoes, bell peppers, and melted cheese creates a dish that’s both nutritious and indulgent.

A Brief History

Vegetable casseroles became popular in the mid-20th century as convenient, oven-baked meals that could feed a family using affordable ingredients. Broccoli casseroles, in particular, gained fame for turning a simple vegetable into a creamy, crowd-pleasing comfort food.

Ingredients

Vegetables

  • 4 cups broccoli florets (fresh or frozen, lightly steamed)
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1 cup yellow bell pepper, diced
  • 1 cup red bell pepper, diced
  • ½ cup carrots, thinly sliced
  • ½ cup onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced

Creamy Cheese Sauce

  • 2 tbsp butter
  • 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
  • 1½ cups milk (warm)
  • ½ cup heavy cream
  • 1½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
  • ½ cup mozzarella cheese
  • ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • ½ tsp paprika
  • ½ tsp dried oregano or Italian seasoning

Optional Topping

  • ½ cup breadcrumbs or crushed crackers
  • 2 tbsp melted butter

Preparation Method

Step 1: Prepare the Vegetables

  • Preheat oven to 180°C / 350°F
  • Lightly steam broccoli for 3–4 minutes until just tender
  • In a bowl, mix broccoli, tomatoes, bell peppers, carrots, onion, and garlic

Step 2: Make the Creamy Sauce

  • Melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat
  • Whisk in flour and cook 1 minute
  • Slowly add warm milk, whisking constantly
  • Add cream and cook until thickened
  • Stir in cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan until smooth
  • Season with salt, pepper, paprika, and oregano

Step 3: Assemble

  • Place vegetables in a greased baking dish
  • Pour cheese sauce evenly over vegetables
  • Gently mix to coat everything

Step 4: Add Topping (Optional)

  • Mix breadcrumbs with melted butter
  • Sprinkle evenly over casserole

Step 5: Bake

  • Bake uncovered for 30–35 minutes
  • Broil for 3–5 minutes until golden and bubbly

Serving Suggestions

  • Serve hot as a main vegetarian dish
  • Pair with grilled chicken, roasted beef, or baked fish
  • Perfect alongside rice, mashed potatoes, or crusty bread

Why People Love This Dish

  • Creamy and cheesy comfort food
  • Loaded with colorful vegetables
  • Easy to customize
  • Kid-friendly and crowd-pleasing
  • Great for leftovers

Health Benefits

  • Broccoli provides fiber, vitamin C, and antioxidants
  • Bell peppers add vitamin A and C
  • Calcium-rich cheeses support bone health
  • Can be made lighter with low-fat milk and cheese

Nutritional Value (Approx. per serving)

  • Calories: 320
  • Protein: 14g
  • Fat: 22g
  • Carbohydrates: 18g
  • Fiber: 4g
  • Calcium: High

Variations

  • Add cooked chicken, turkey, or mushrooms
  • Use cauliflower instead of broccoli
  • Swap cheese sauce for a yogurt-based sauce
  • Make it spicy with chili flakes or jalapeños

Conclusion

This Creamy Cheesy Broccoli Vegetable Casserole is a perfect balance of comfort and nutrition. With its rich sauce, vibrant vegetables, and golden baked top, it’s a dish that brings everyone to the table smiling.

Leave a Comment