This Broccoli and Cauliflower Bake is a delightful twist on classic comfort food, perfect for a cozy family dinner or a festive holiday side dish. It's a cheesy, bubbly wonder that captures the best of both vegetables in a creamy, crunchy casserole.
Broccoli and cauliflower are the stars of this dish, bringing a nutritious punch with their fiber and vitamins. Their mild flavors allow the cheese sauce to shine. Unsalted butter forms the base of the creamy sauce, which is thickened with all-purpose flour to create a roux. Whole milk provides the richness needed for the sauce, while sharp cheddar cheese gives it that extra punch of flavor. Salt and black pepper are essential for seasoning, ensuring every bite is perfectly tasty. The breadcrumbs and parmesan cheese create a crispy topping that adds a delightful contrast to the creamy bake.
This bake pairs beautifully with roasted chicken or a simple grilled steak. For a vegetarian meal, serve it alongside a hearty grain salad or a warm bowl of soup. A crisp, green salad with a tangy vinaigrette can also complement the richness of the dish.
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures it's ready to go as soon as your dish is assembled. Lightly grease a 9x13 inch baking dish to prevent sticking. Next, chop the broccoli and cauliflower into bite-sized pieces. You want them small enough to cook quickly and evenly but not so small that they lose their texture.
Place the chopped vegetables in a steamer basket set over boiling water. Steam them for about 5 minutes until they're just tender. This short cooking time helps them retain some crunch, so they don't become mushy in the oven.
Meanwhile, in a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Once it's fully melted, sprinkle in the flour. Whisk it into the butter to form a roux. This mixture will thicken your sauce, so be sure to whisk continuously to avoid lumps.
Slowly pour in the milk, whisking the entire time. Keep stirring until the sauce thickens. This might take a few minutes, but patience is key. You want a creamy, smooth sauce without any floury taste. Remove the pan from heat and stir in the cheddar cheese until it's completely melted into the sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste—this is your chance to ensure the sauce is flavorful.
Combine the steamed vegetables with the cheese sauce in a large bowl, stirring gently to coat every piece. Transfer this mixture into your prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
In a small bowl, mix the breadcrumbs with the parmesan cheese. Sprinkle this mixture over the top of the vegetables and sauce, covering it evenly to ensure a nice golden crust develops as it bakes.
Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes. You're looking for a golden brown top and bubbly edges. Once done, let it cool for a few minutes so it's easier to serve.
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