Cheesy Broccoli and Cauliflower Bake

This Cheesy Broccoli and Cauliflower Bake is the perfect comfort food. With its creamy texture and smoky sausage flavor, it’s a hearty dish that combines the best of vegetables and cheese. Whether you’re serving it as a side dish or a main, this recipe is sure to satisfy your taste buds!

Ingredients:

• 1 pound broccoli florets
• 1/2 pound cauliflower florets
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
• 1 small yellow onion, finely diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 12 ounces smoked sausage, Polish or Andouille, sliced into 1-inch rounds
• 8 ounces cream cheese, room temperature, cut into cubes for easier mixing
• 1/2 cup mayonnaise (or sub plain yogurt or sour cream)
• 2 cups shredded Mexican blend cheese, divided
• 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
• Salt and fresh ground black pepper, to taste

Directions:

1. Preheat oven to 400˚F (200˚C) and lightly grease a 9×13 baking dish; set aside.
2. Add water to a large pot, filling it about halfway up, and bring to a boil. Add broccoli florets and cauliflower florets to the boiling water; bring back to a boil and continue to cook for 3 minutes. Drain well and set aside.
3. In the meantime, heat the vegetable oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Stir in the onions and cook for 2 minutes; add the garlic and cook for 15 seconds.
4. Stir in the smoked sausage and cook for 3 minutes or until browned on all sides. Stir frequently.
5. Transfer the cooked broccoli, cauliflower, and sausage mixture into the prepared baking dish.
6. In a mixing bowl, combine cream cheese, mayonnaise, 1 cup shredded cheese, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper; mix until thoroughly incorporated.
7. Stir the cream cheese mixture into the broccoli and sausage mixture until everything is well combined. Top with the remaining shredded cheese.
8. Bake for 12 to 15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the top is golden brown.
9. Remove from the oven and serve hot.

Prep Time:

15 minutes

Cooking Time:

15 minutes

Total Time:

30 minutes

Calories:

400 kcal per serving

Servings:

6 servings

History of the Dish:

The combination of broccoli and cauliflower in creamy, cheesy casseroles is a classic American comfort food. While this dish does not have a specific historical origin, it draws from the tradition of hearty vegetable bakes popular in the 20th century. The addition of smoked sausage adds a savory element that elevates the dish, making it a beloved choice for family dinners and holiday gatherings.

Benefits of Broccoli and Cauliflower:

Broccoli and cauliflower are both nutrient-dense vegetables that provide a wide range of health benefits. Rich in vitamins C and K, they help support immune function, bone health, and cell repair. They are also high in fiber, which aids digestion, and contain antioxidants that may help protect against certain chronic diseases. The addition of cheese and sausage makes this dish a satisfying and balanced meal, offering a mix of protein, healthy fats, and fiber.

Nutrition:

Each serving of this Cheesy Broccoli and Cauliflower Bake contains approximately:

• Calories: 400 kcal
• Fat: 30g
• Carbohydrates: 10g
• Protein: 25g

Conclusion:

This Cheesy Broccoli and Cauliflower Bake is not only delicious and comforting but also a great way to enjoy nutritious vegetables. The creamy texture and smoky sausage flavor make it a perfect addition to any meal, whether as a side dish or a main course. It’s easy to make, quick to bake, and sure to become a favorite in your recipe repertoire!

Lovers of Comfort Food:

If you’re a lover of rich, cheesy comfort foods that are both satisfying and nutritious, this recipe will be your new go-to. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just yourself, this dish delivers a perfect balance of flavor and texture that everyone will enjoy.