Broccoli Cauliflower Casserole (Printable Recipe)

Cheesy broccoli and cauliflower with cream sauce and bacon, baked to comforting perfection.

# Ingredients You'll Need:

→ Vegetables

01 - 2-3 heads broccoli, cut into florets
02 - 1 head cauliflower, cut into florets

→ Sauce and Flavor Base

03 - 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, melted
04 - 1/2 large onion, diced
05 - 6 cloves garlic, minced
06 - 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
07 - 1/2 cup reduced sodium chicken broth
08 - 1/2 teaspoon sea salt, to taste
09 - 1/4 teaspoon black pepper, to taste

→ Cheese

10 - 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese, mixed in
11 - 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese, for topping
12 - 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese, mixed in
13 - 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese, for topping

→ Optional

14 - 9 slices cooked bacon, crumbled or chopped, divided

# Steps to Follow:

01 - Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Add broccoli and cauliflower florets, cook uncovered until crisp-tender. Drain and rinse with cold water or shock in ice water. Pat dry and set aside.
02 - In the same pot, melt butter over medium heat. Add diced onions and cook until translucent. Stir in garlic and sauté until fragrant.
03 - Reduce heat to low. Add softened cream cheese and stir until melted. Pour in chicken broth and mix until smooth.
04 - Remove pot from heat. Add broccoli and cauliflower to the sauce. Stir in 1 cup cheddar, 1 cup mozzarella, and half of the bacon. Season with salt and pepper. Mix thoroughly.
05 - Transfer the mixture to a large baking dish. Sprinkle with remaining cheddar and mozzarella. Top with remaining bacon.
06 - Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 15-20 minutes, or until cheese is melted and bubbly. Optional: broil for 2-3 minutes for a golden top.

# Extra Tips:

01 - Undercook the vegetables slightly during boiling to avoid mushiness after baking.
02 - To add protein and turn into a main dish, mix in cooked chicken before baking.
03 - For a spicier version, drizzle with buffalo sauce before serving.