Cheesy Broccoli and Cauliflower Casserole

A hand scoops a serving of broccoli and cheese casserole with a golden breadcrumb topping from a rectangular metal baking dish.

Cheesy Broccoli and Cauliflower Casserole

This broccoli and cauliflower casserole is creamy, comforting, and full of tender vegetables. Melted cheddar makes every bite rich and satisfying. It is a simple side dish that pairs well with almost any meal.

Course Side Dish, Side dishes

Cuisine American, International

Keyword broccoli, broccoli and cauliflower, broccoli casserole, broccoli cauliflower casserole, casserole, casserole dish, casserole recipe, cauliflower, cheddar, cheddar cheese, crumb, floret, leftover, side dish, topping

Prep Time 15

Cook Time 45

Servings Servings

Calories 565kcal

Author Zuzana Paar

Equipment

Ingredients

1 Piece Broccoli large head, chopped into small florets (about 5 cups)
1 Piece Cauliflower small head, cut into florets (about 5 cups)
6 Slices Bacon thick
4 Tablespoons Unsalted Butter divided
2 Cups Cheddar Cheese shredded
1 Cup Milk full-fat
1 Cup Low Carb Crackers crushed buttery low carb
4 Ounce Cream Cheese softened and cubed
2 Cloves Garlic finely minced
1 teaspoon Salt plus more to taste
1/2 teaspoon Smoked Paprika
1/4 teaspoon Cayenne
Lemon zest

US Customary - Metric

Instructions

Blanch broccoli for 2 minutes and cauliflower for 2–3 minutes, drain well, and let dry while preheating the oven to 375°Fahrenheit (190°Celsius).
Cook sliced bacon in a skillet until crispy, transfer to a plate, and keep about 1 tablespoon of bacon fat in the pot.
Melt butter into the reserved fat, stir in garlic, lemon zest, cayenne, and salt, then whisk in milk until gently thickened.
Crush crackers and mix with melted butter and smoked paprika, then set aside for topping.
Remove the pot from heat, stir in cream cheese and cheddar until smooth, then fold in the blanched veggies and chopped bacon.
Spread the cheesy veggie mixture in a buttered dish, top with crumbs, cover and bake 20 minutes, then uncover and bake 20–25 more until golden and bubbly.

Notes

Steam the Veggies Lightly First: Lightly steaming the broccoli and cauliflower helps them cook evenly and keeps them from turning mushy. Don’t overdo it, just 3–4 minutes is enough.
Use a Sharp Cheese for More Flavor: Aged cheddar or a mix of cheeses gives the casserole a bold, cheesy taste. It also melts better and creates a rich, creamy texture.
Add a Crunchy Topping: Sprinkle almond flour, crushed pork rinds, or even low-carb breadcrumbs on top for a crispy finish. A light drizzle of melted butter can help the topping brown nicely.
Let It Rest Before Serving: After baking, let the casserole sit for 5–10 minutes to firm up. This makes it easier to slice and keeps the sauce from running.

Nutrition