Print
clockclock iconcutlerycutlery iconflagflag iconfolderfolder iconinstagraminstagram iconpinterestpinterest iconfacebookfacebook iconprintprint iconsquaressquares iconheartheart iconheart solidheart solid icon

Broccoli and Cauliflower Casserole Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.3 from 14 reviews

This Broccoli and Cauliflower Casserole is a comforting and creamy baked dish combining steamed florets, tender diced chicken breast, and a rich cheese sauce made from cream cheese, half-and-half, and mozzarella. Perfect for a nutritious family meal, it offers a delightful blend of textures and flavors with a cheesy, mildly seasoned topping that is baked to golden perfection.

  • Total Time: 25 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings

Ingredients

Vegetables

  • 1 large cauliflower head, cut into small florets
  • 1 broccoli head, cut into small florets

Protein

  • 2 cups cooked chicken breast, diced

Dairy & Cream

  • 8 oz cream cheese, softened
  • ½ cup half-and-half cream
  • 2 cups mozzarella cheese, shredded (reserve some for topping)

Spices & Seasonings

  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder
  • ½ teaspoon onion powder
  • Salt, to taste
  • Freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven: Adjust the oven rack to the middle position and preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) to prepare for baking the casserole.
  2. Steam the vegetables: Fill a large pot with about 2 cups of water and place a steamer basket inside. Bring the water to a boil. Add the cauliflower and broccoli florets to the steamer basket, cover the pot, and steam for about 5 minutes until tender but still crisp.
  3. Prepare the cheese and chicken mixture: In a large bowl, combine the diced cooked chicken breast, softened cream cheese, half-and-half cream, 2 cups shredded mozzarella (save some for topping), garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Mix well until fully blended.
  4. Combine steamed vegetables with cheese mixture: Remove the steamed cauliflower and broccoli from the heat and immediately add them into the bowl with the cheese and chicken mixture. The residual heat will help soften and melt the cheese blend.
  5. Assemble the casserole: Lightly oil a casserole dish and spoon the combined mixture evenly into it. Sprinkle the reserved mozzarella cheese on top to create a nice cheesy crust.
  6. Bake the casserole: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake uncovered for 10 to 15 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
  7. Optional broil for browning: For a golden, slightly browned top, switch your oven to the broiler setting on high during the last 3 minutes of baking. Watch closely to prevent burning.

Notes

  • You can substitute half-and-half with heavy cream or whole milk if preferred, but half-and-half gives a balanced creaminess without being too heavy.
  • Use freshly cooked chicken or leftover rotisserie chicken for convenience.
  • Ensure not to over-steam the vegetables; they should remain slightly crisp to maintain texture when baked.
  • Adjust seasoning to taste; additional herbs like thyme or parsley can add freshness.
  • To make this dish vegetarian, omit chicken and increase the cheese and vegetables.
  • Author: Maya
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Category: Casserole
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Find it online: https://recipeteach.com/broccoli-and-cauliflower-casserole-recipe/