Name: Loaded Cauliflower Broccoli Casserole Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 medium head of cauliflower, cut into florets; 1 medium head of broccoli, cut into florets; 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese; 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese; 1/2 cup sour cream; 1/4 cup mayonnaise; 1/2 cup milk; 1 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; 1/2 teaspoon paprika; 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder; 1/2 cup cooked and crumbled meat; 1/4 cup chopped green onions

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Looking to put a mouthwatering, veggie-loaded twist on classic comfort food? This Loaded Cauliflower Broccoli Casserole delivers everything you crave: perfectly tender veggies, creamy and cheesy goodness, a hint of spice, plus countless ways to make it your own. The casserole combines golden florets of cauliflower and broccoli, smothered in a velvety blend of cheeses and a whisper of seasoning, then bakes to bubbling perfection. Whether you’re aiming for a crowd-pleasing side or a satisfying main, this recipe is a total weeknight hero.

Loaded Cauliflower Broccoli Casserole Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

With just a handful of everyday staples, you’ll be amazed at how much flavor and color this Loaded Cauliflower Broccoli Casserole offers. Every ingredient plays an important part, from providing creaminess and richness to adding crunch and boldness.

Cauliflower florets: These soak up all the delicious flavors while giving the casserole its hearty texture.
Broccoli florets: For lovely color and a satisfying bite—plus extra nutrients.
Olive oil: A drizzle helps sauté the onion and garlic, infusing savory flavor into every layer.
Chopped onion: The aromatic base that adds a mild sweetness throughout the dish.
Minced garlic: Just two cloves go a long way, giving every forkful a wonderful depth.
Shredded cheddar cheese: Melty, sharp, and perfect for that classic casserole pull.
Shredded mozzarella cheese: For extra stretch and an ultra-creamy melt in every bite.
Sour cream: Adds tang and rich creaminess, blending effortlessly into the sauce.
Mayonnaise: It may sound surprising, but it deepens the flavor and keeps things extra moist.
Milk: Brings the sauce together, smoothing it out and ensuring a silky texture.
Salt: The essential seasoning to bring out every flavor.
Black pepper: For a little kick and balance.
Paprika: Adds a hint of warmth and a vibrant touch of color.
Garlic powder: Reinforces the garlicky flavor that rounds out the casserole.
Cooked and crumbled meat (optional): Bacon or sausage will take it over the top for meat lovers.
Chopped green onions (optional): A crunchy, bright garnish that brings freshness right at the end.

How to Make Loaded Cauliflower Broccoli Casserole

Step 1: Prep the Baking Dish and Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to ensure nothing sticks and your casserole comes out cleanly. This simple step sets you up for a beautifully golden, easy-to-serve Loaded Cauliflower Broccoli Casserole.

Step 2: Steam the Veggies

Give your cauliflower and broccoli florets a quick steam or blanch for 5-7 minutes. The goal is to just tenderize them—soft enough to absorb the sauce but still holding their shape. Drain them well and set aside; you don’t want extra moisture in your casserole.

Step 3: Sauté the Aromatics

Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, and sauté for 2-3 minutes until they’re soft and fragrant. This little flavor base is what takes your Loaded Cauliflower Broccoli Casserole from good to unforgettably delicious.

Step 4: Mix the Creamy Cheesy Sauce

In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded cheddar, mozzarella, sour cream, mayonnaise, milk, salt, pepper, paprika, and garlic powder. Give it all a good stir until creamy, well-mixed, and oh-so-tempting—you’ll want to sneak a taste.

Step 5: Combine Everything

Add your steamed cauliflower and broccoli to the mixing bowl. Gently fold them into the creamy cheese mixture, making sure every piece is generously coated. The sauce will cling to each floret, promising a gooey, irresistible bite.

Step 6: Assemble and Top

Pour the mixture into your prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly. If you’re adding cooked crumbled meat and green onions, sprinkle them over the top right now for an extra layer of savory flavor and color.

Step 7: Bake Until Bubbling

Pop the casserole into your preheated oven and bake for 20–25 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the top is golden and everything is bubbling with cheesy goodness. Give it a few minutes to cool before serving so it sets perfectly for scooping.

How to Serve Loaded Cauliflower Broccoli Casserole

Garnishes

Sprinkle the finished casserole with chopped green onions, crisp bacon bits, or even a dash of extra paprika to make those colors pop. A little freshly cracked black pepper adds a finishing touch, making every portion look and taste extra special.

Side Dishes

This comforting casserole pairs effortlessly with roasted chicken or grilled salmon, but it’s also fantastic as a stand-alone vegetarian main. Try it alongside a fresh leafy salad or some crusty bread to soak up all that creamy, cheesy sauce.

Creative Ways to Present

Transform your Loaded Cauliflower Broccoli Casserole into individual ramekins for personalized servings (so fun for dinner parties!), or serve it in a beautiful cast-iron skillet for a rustic, cozy feel. Leftovers even work great as a topping for baked potatoes or stirred into your favorite soup for an instant upgrade.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Got extras? Simply let the casserole cool to room temperature, then transfer to an airtight container. It will keep well in the fridge for up to 3–4 days, making lunch or dinner a breeze later in the week.

Freezing

Loaded Cauliflower Broccoli Casserole freezes surprisingly well. Cool the cooked casserole completely and wrap it tightly in foil or move into a freezer-friendly container. It can be frozen for up to 2 months—just label it so you don’t forget what cheesy goodness awaits!

Reheating

To reheat, simply bake covered in a 350°F oven until warmed through, about 20 minutes. For single portions, the microwave makes quick work—just use short bursts and stir in between to keep things creamy. Sprinkling on a bit of fresh cheese before reheating gives it a melty finish.

FAQs

Can I use frozen vegetables instead of fresh?

Absolutely! Make sure to thaw and drain them thoroughly to avoid excess moisture in your Loaded Cauliflower Broccoli Casserole. Fresh yields the best texture, but frozen is an easy, time-saving swap.

Is there a way to make this casserole vegetarian or gluten-free?

Yes! The recipe is already vegetarian if you skip the meat topping, and it’s naturally gluten-free—just check that your mix-ins (like store-bought bacon or pre-shredded cheese) don’t contain hidden gluten.

Can I make Loaded Cauliflower Broccoli Casserole ahead of time?

Definitely. Assemble the casserole up to a day ahead, cover tightly, and refrigerate unbaked. When you’re ready to serve, bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes if it’s coming straight from the fridge.

What kinds of meat work well as a topping?

Cooked and crumbled bacon is a standout, but you can also try crumbled sausage, shredded rotisserie chicken, or even diced ham for a heartier meal. All add great flavor alongside the creamy cheese.

Can I add other vegetables?

Of course! Mushrooms, bell peppers, or even baby spinach mix in easily and add unique flavors. Just be sure to sauté or precook them first so everything melds together smoothly in the casserole.

Final Thoughts

Whether you’re looking for a comforting side or a cozy main packed with veggies and flavor, this Loaded Cauliflower Broccoli Casserole is sure to win over everyone at the table. Give it a try—you might just find it becomes a new go-to favorite in your recipe repertoire!

Loaded Cauliflower Broccoli Casserole Recipe

★★★★★

4.7 from 29 reviews

Author: Mariam
Total Time: 40 minutes
Yield: 6 servings 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

This Loaded Cauliflower Broccoli Casserole is a delicious and comforting dish that is perfect for any occasion. Creamy and cheesy, it’s a great way to get your veggies in and satisfy your cravings for something hearty.

Instructions

Preparation: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
Steam Vegetables: Steam or blanch the cauliflower and broccoli florets for 5-7 minutes until tender but still slightly firm. Drain and set aside.
Sauté Aromatics: In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat, then sauté the chopped onion and garlic for 2-3 minutes until softened and fragrant.
Prepare Cheese Mixture: In a mixing bowl, combine cheddar cheese, mozzarella cheese, sour cream, mayonnaise, milk, salt, pepper, paprika, and garlic powder. Stir until well combined.
Coat Vegetables: Add the cauliflower and broccoli to the bowl and stir gently to coat the vegetables evenly with the cheese mixture.
Assemble Casserole: Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish and spread evenly. Optionally, sprinkle cooked crumbled meat and chopped green onions on top.
Bake: Bake for 20-25 minutes, until the top is golden and bubbly.
Serve: Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Category: Main Dish
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American