Name: Broccoli Cauliflower Bake
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 55 min
Total time: 1 h 5 min
Yield: 6
Ingredients: 4 to 4.5 cups broccoli florets (about 1 small head or ¾ pound); 4 to 4.5 cups cauliflower florets (about half a large head or ¾ pound); ⅓ cup unsalted butter, divided (5 tablespoons); ⅓ cup all-purpose flour; 2 cups whole milk; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; ¾ teaspoon salt, or to taste; ½ teaspoon onion powder; ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper; ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg; 6 ounces shredded cheese (mozzarella, provolone, Parmesan, Asiago, and/or cheddar), divided (about 1.5 cups); 2 to 3 tablespoons unseasoned panko bread crumbs; Chopped chives or green onion, for garnish (optional)

Description

This Broccoli Cauliflower Bake is a harmonious blend of tender broccoli and cauliflower florets enveloped in a rich and creamy cheese sauce, topped with a golden layer of melted cheese and crunchy breadcrumbs. It’s the epitome of comfort food, perfect for cozy family dinners or as a heartwarming side dish for special occasions. The combination of flavors and textures makes this bake a crowd-pleaser that’s sure to satisfy any craving for something warm and comforting.

Ingredients

Scale

4 to 4.5 cups broccoli florets (about 1 small head or ¾ pound)
4 to 4.5 cups cauliflower florets (about half a large head or ¾ pound)
⅓ cup unsalted butter, divided (5 tablespoons)
⅓ cup all-purpose flour
2 cups whole milk
1 teaspoon garlic powder
¾ teaspoon salt, or to taste
½ teaspoon onion powder
½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
6 ounces shredded cheese (mozzarella, provolone, Parmesan, Asiago, and/or cheddar), divided (about 1.5 cups)
2 to 3 tablespoons unseasoned panko bread crumbs
Chopped chives or green onion, for garnish (optional)

Instructions

Preheat oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit.
Place broccoli and cauliflower florets in a steamer basket over a pot with a few inches of boiling water. Cover and steam for 6 to 8 minutes or until just tender crisp. Set aside.
In a heavy-bottomed saucepan over medium heat, melt ¼ cup (4 tablespoons) of butter. Whisk in flour to form a paste and cook, stirring, for 1 to 2 minutes.
Gradually whisk in milk, stirring constantly until thickened and the mixture coats the back of a spoon, about 8 to 10 minutes.
Stir in garlic powder, salt, onion powder, black pepper, and nutmeg. Off heat, stir in ½ cup (2 ounces) of shredded cheese until incorporated.
Stir in the steamed broccoli and cauliflower, coating them in the sauce.
Grease a 9 to 10-inch baking dish with the remaining 1 tablespoon of butter. Pour in the broccoli/cauliflower mixture and spread into an even layer.
Top with the remaining 1 cup (4 ounces) of shredded cheese and bread crumbs.
Bake for 35 to 40 minutes or until bubbly and the cheese has melted. Garnish with chopped chives if desired. Serve and enjoy!

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 55 minutes