Vegetarian baked broccoli cheese has always been my go-to for a quick and satisfying side dish. I remember my mom making a version of this when I was a kid, and the smell of melted cheese and tender broccoli filling the kitchen instantly made me feel cozy and loved. This vegetarian broccoli cheese bake is so simple to whip up, even on a busy weeknight. It’s truly an easy vegetarian broccoli cheese recipe that delivers big on flavor and comfort. Let’s get cooking!
Why You’ll Love This Vegetarian Baked Broccoli Cheese
This dish is a winner for so many reasons! It’s packed with flavor and incredibly easy to make. Here’s why you’ll be making it again and again:
- Incredible Taste: The combination of tender broccoli and melted cheese is pure comfort.
- Quick Prep Time: You can have this ready for the oven in just 10 minutes!
- Healthy Benefits: Broccoli is loaded with vitamins, making this a guilt-free indulgence.
- Budget-Friendly: Simple ingredients mean this dish won’t break the bank.
- Family Favorite: Even picky eaters love this cheesy baked broccoli vegetarian delight.
- Versatile Side: It pairs perfectly with almost any main course.
- Simple Comfort: It’s the ultimate cheesy baked broccoli vegetarian dish for a cozy meal.
- Effortless Elegance: It looks and tastes gourmet, but is surprisingly simple.
Ingredients for Vegetarian Baked Broccoli Cheese
Gathering your ingredients is the first step to creating this delicious vegetarian broccoli and cheese bake. You’ll find that most of these are pantry staples, making this a truly accessible dish.
- 2 cups broccoli florets, fresh or frozen – I prefer fresh for a brighter flavor, but frozen works perfectly fine!
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese – Sharp cheddar gives the best flavor, but feel free to use mild or a blend.
- 1/4 cup milk – Whole milk makes the sauce richer, but 2% works too.
- 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour – This is our thickening agent, creating that lovely creamy sauce.
- 1 tablespoon butter – Unsalted butter is best so you can control the saltiness.
- Salt to taste – Just a pinch to enhance all those cheesy flavors.
- Black pepper to taste – Freshly ground pepper adds a nice subtle kick.
How to Make Vegetarian Baked Broccoli Cheese
Making this delightful dish is a breeze, and the results are truly comforting. Follow these simple steps for a perfect vegetarian broccoli cheese gratin every time!
- Step 1: First things first, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). While the oven heats up, prepare your broccoli. If you’re using fresh broccoli, steam or blanch the florets for about 2-3 minutes until they’re tender-crisp, then drain them well. If you’re using frozen broccoli, just thaw it according to the package instructions and drain any excess water.
- Step 2: Now, let’s make that luscious cheese sauce. In a medium saucepan, melt the 1 tablespoon butter over medium heat. Once it’s melted and shimmering, whisk in the 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour. Cook this mixture for about a minute, stirring constantly, to create a smooth roux – this is the base for our creamy sauce.
- Step 3: Gradually whisk in the 1/4 cup milk, a little at a time, making sure to smooth out any lumps. Continue whisking until the sauce is smooth and starts to thicken slightly. You want a consistency that coats the back of a spoon nicely.
- Step 4: It’s time for the cheese! Reduce the heat to low and stir in the 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese. Keep stirring gently until the cheese is completely melted and the sauce is wonderfully smooth and creamy. Season generously with salt and pepper to taste, making sure the flavors pop. This is where the magic happens, transforming a simple sauce into a decadent cheesy base for our vegetarian broccoli cheese gratin.
- Step 5: Gently add the prepared broccoli florets to the cheese sauce. Stir everything together carefully, ensuring each piece of broccoli is coated in the cheesy goodness. This step ensures every bite is packed with flavor, creating a truly satisfying vegetarian broccoli cheese gratin.
- Step 6: Pour the broccoli and cheese mixture into a small baking dish. You can spread it out evenly.
- Step 7: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes. You’re looking for the cheese sauce to get bubbly and the top to turn a lovely golden brown. The aroma filling your kitchen will be incredible!
Pro Tips for the Best Vegetarian Baked Broccoli Cheese
Want to elevate your vegetarian baked broccoli cheese game? I’ve picked up a few tricks over the years that make all the difference in achieving that perfect, cheesy, comforting dish.
- For an extra creamy sauce, use whole milk and don’t rush the roux.
- Don’t overcook the broccoli before baking; it should still have a slight bite, as it will continue to cook in the oven.
- A mix of cheeses, like cheddar and Gruyere, adds a wonderful depth of flavor.
- For a beautiful golden crust, you can sprinkle a little extra cheese on top before baking.
What’s the secret to perfect Vegetarian Baked Broccoli Cheese?
The secret to a perfect vegetarian broccoli cheese bake recipe lies in the sauce. Creating a smooth, well-seasoned cheese sauce using a proper roux and good quality cheese is key. Don’t skip the step of letting the roux cook for a minute before adding milk! For more tips on making great sauces, check out this guide to making a roux.
Can I make Vegetarian Baked Broccoli Cheese ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the entire dish, from cooking the broccoli to making the sauce and combining them, up to 24 hours in advance. Just cover it tightly and refrigerate. You might need to add a few extra minutes to the baking time when cooking from chilled.
How do I avoid common mistakes with Vegetarian Baked Broccoli Cheese?
A common pitfall is a watery sauce; ensure your roux is cooked properly and the broccoli is well-drained. Another mistake is over-baking, which can dry out the dish. Watch for that golden, bubbly top – usually around 15-20 minutes.
Best Ways to Serve Vegetarian Baked Broccoli Cheese
This versatile vegetarian baked broccoli cheese is fantastic on its own, but it truly shines when paired with other dishes. It’s the ultimate vegetarian comfort food broccoli cheese addition to any meal.
- As a Side Dish: It’s the perfect accompaniment to roasted chicken, grilled fish, or pork chops. The creamy, cheesy broccoli balances richer main courses beautifully.
- With Pasta: Toss it with your favorite pasta shapes for an easy and satisfying vegetarian pasta bake. Penne or rotini work wonderfully for catching the cheesy sauce.
- Alongside Soups: Serve a scoop alongside a hearty tomato soup or a creamy vegetable soup for a complete and comforting meal. It adds a lovely texture and cheesy goodness.
Nutrition Facts for Vegetarian Baked Broccoli Cheese
This vegetarian baked broccoli cheese is a delightful side dish, and here’s a breakdown of its nutritional content per serving. It’s a good way to add vegetables with a cheesy, comforting element to your meal.
- Calories: 250
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Protein: 10g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fiber: 4g
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 300mg
Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients used.
How to Store and Reheat Vegetarian Baked Broccoli Cheese
I love that this vegetarian baked broccoli cheese is so forgiving when it comes to storage! Once it’s cooled down, which usually takes about 30 minutes, you can store it properly. For the best results, transfer any leftovers into an airtight container. This keeps your dish fresh in the refrigerator for about 3 to 4 days. If you want to keep it even longer, this easy vegetarian cheesy broccoli bake freezes beautifully. Wrap individual portions tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. It will stay good in the freezer for up to 3 months.
Reheating is just as simple. For refrigerated leftovers, gently warm them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until heated through. You can also reheat it in the microwave, but be cautious not to overheat it, which can make the cheese sauce separate. For frozen portions, thaw them overnight in the refrigerator before reheating using the oven method for the best texture.
Frequently Asked Questions About Vegetarian Baked Broccoli Cheese
What makes this Vegetarian Baked Broccoli Cheese so good?
The magic is in the simplicity and the sauce! We create a creamy, smooth cheese sauce using a basic roux and good cheddar, which coats the broccoli perfectly. It’s a comforting and delicious way to enjoy vegetables, making it a truly satisfying vegetarian baked cheesy broccoli dish that even non-broccoli lovers can enjoy.
Can I add other vegetables to this Vegetarian Baked Broccoli Cheese?
Absolutely! This recipe is very adaptable. You can add steamed cauliflower, carrots, or even some sautéed mushrooms along with the broccoli. Just be sure to cook any added vegetables to a similar tender-crisp stage before mixing them into the cheese sauce for an even more robust vegetarian baked cheesy broccoli experience.
What kind of cheese is best for Vegetarian Baked Broccoli Cheese?
While sharp cheddar is fantastic for its robust flavor, feel free to experiment! A blend of cheddar and Gruyere offers a nutty depth, while Monterey Jack melts beautifully for extra creaminess. The key is to use a good melting cheese. Whatever you choose, it will contribute to a wonderfully cheesy dish.
How do I make this Vegetarian Baked Broccoli Cheese dairy-free or vegan?
To make this a dairy-free or vegan option, you can easily substitute the butter with vegan butter or olive oil, the milk with unsweetened plant-based milk (like almond or soy), and the cheddar cheese with your favorite dairy-free shredded cheese alternative. The process remains the same for a delicious vegetarian baked cheesy broccoli that fits different dietary needs.
Variations of Vegetarian Baked Broccoli Cheese You Can Try
This vegetarian baked broccoli cheese is wonderfully adaptable, allowing you to customize it to your taste and dietary needs. Here are a few ideas to make your vegetarian broccoli and cheddar bake even more exciting!
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of your favorite hot sauce to the cheese sauce for a subtle heat that complements the broccoli and cheddar.
- Garlic Lover’s Dream: Sauté a clove or two of minced garlic with the butter before adding the flour. This infuses the whole dish with a delicious garlicky aroma.
- Herbaceous Delight: Stir in some fresh chopped chives, parsley, or dill into the cheese sauce just before adding the broccoli for a burst of fresh flavor.
- Creamier Texture: For an even richer and creamier result, you can substitute half of the milk with heavy cream or half-and-half.
Simple Vegetarian Baked Broccoli Cheese 2 Ways
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 2-3 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A simple and delicious vegetarian baked broccoli cheese dish, perfect as a side or a light meal. This vegetarian broccoli cheese bake is packed with flavor and is easy to prepare.
Ingredients
- 2 cups broccoli florets, fresh or frozen
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon butter
- Salt to taste
- Black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- If using fresh broccoli, steam or blanch it until tender-crisp. If using frozen, thaw according to package directions.
- In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour to create a roux.
- Gradually whisk in the milk until the sauce is smooth and slightly thickened.
- Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until melted. Season with salt and pepper.
- Add the broccoli to the cheese sauce and stir to coat.
- Pour the mixture into a small baking dish.
- Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly.
Notes
- For a richer flavor, use a mix of cheddar and Gruyere cheese.
- Add a pinch of nutmeg to the cheese sauce for an extra layer of flavor.
- You can add a tablespoon of finely chopped onion or garlic to the sauce for more depth.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 300mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 10g
- Cholesterol: 45mg
Keywords: Vegetarian Baked Broccoli Cheese, vegetarian broccoli cheese bake, cheesy baked broccoli vegetarian, vegetarian broccoli and cheese bake, vegetarian broccoli cheese gratin
