Here’s a delicious recipe for a Cheesy Broccoli and Cauliflower Bake:
Ingredients:
- 1 head of broccoli, cut into florets
- 1 head of cauliflower, cut into florets
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups milk
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon mustard powder
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (divided)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup bread crumbs (optional for topping)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Prepare the Vegetables:
- In a large pot of boiling salted water, blanch the broccoli and cauliflower florets for about 3-4 minutes until they are tender-crisp.
- Drain the vegetables and immediately transfer them to a bowl of ice water to stop the cooking process. Drain again and pat dry.
- Season the Vegetables:
- Toss the broccoli and cauliflower with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread them out evenly in a baking dish.
- Make the Cheese Sauce:
- In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
- Whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes until it is lightly golden and smells nutty.
- Gradually whisk in the milk, continuing to whisk until the mixture is smooth and starts to thicken.
- Add the garlic powder, onion powder, and mustard powder.
- Reduce the heat to low and stir in 1 1/2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese and the Parmesan cheese until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Combine and Bake:
- Pour the cheese sauce evenly over the broccoli and cauliflower in the baking dish.
- Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar cheese on top.
- If using, sprinkle the bread crumbs over the top for an added crunchy texture.
- Bake:
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the sauce is bubbly.
- Garnish and Serve:
- Remove from the oven and let it sit for a few minutes.
- Garnish with chopped fresh parsley before serving.
Enjoy your Cheesy Broccoli and Cauliflower Bake as a side dish or even a main course!