Loaded Cauliflower Broccoli Casserole Recipe

If you’re searching for the comfort of a classic casserole with a twist, look no further than this Loaded Cauliflower Broccoli Casserole. Brimming with vibrant vegetables, smoky bacon, and layers of melty cheese, it’s the ultimate side dish or even main course that unites the savory satisfaction of loaded potatoes—with an extra wallop of flavor and a lower-carb kick. Whether you’re planning a cozy family dinner or feeding a crowd, you’ll love how this recipe checks every box for creamy, cheesy, and crave-worthy goodness!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Ingredients You’ll Need

What makes this dish a stand-out is how each ingredient brings rich taste and texture, from the crispy bacon to the sharp cheddar. Don’t be tempted to cut corners—every component is here for a reason, and together they make the Loaded Cauliflower Broccoli Casserole unforgettable!

• Bacon (8 slices, fried crispy): Adds irresistibly smoky crunch and a savory kick that weaves through every bite.
• Cauliflower (1/2 large head, cut into florets): Lends a creamy texture after steaming and happily soaks up all the cheesy flavors.
• Broccoli (1/2 large head, cut into florets): Brings a subtle earthiness and gorgeous color, plus it pairs perfectly with cheese.
• Sour Cream (1/2 cup): Contributes tangy creaminess that enhances the casserole’s rich mouthfeel.
• Mayonnaise (1/2 cup): Adds that luscious silkiness and helps bind everything together.
• Heavy Cream (1 tablespoon): Just a touch for extra indulgence and depth; don’t skip it!
• Black Pepper (¼ teaspoon): For gentle warmth and that necessary pop of spice.
• Colby & Monterey Jack Cheese (1 cup, shredded): A melty duo that provides mild, creamy richness on top.
• Sharp Cheddar Cheese (1 cup): The hero of cheesy flavor, adding a salty sharpness that balances the veggies.
• Fresh Chives (6 tablespoons, chopped, divided): Sprinkled for oniony brightness, both mixed in and as a fresh garnish.

How to Make Loaded Cauliflower Broccoli Casserole

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Kick things off by preheating your oven to 370 degrees. This ensures your casserole will bake evenly and the cheesy topping gets bubbly and golden by the end.

Step 2: Fry the Bacon

Grab a large skillet and fry eight slices of bacon until they’re perfectly crispy. Once cooled, crumble them up. This step not only adds crunch but infuses the entire dish with smoky magic that you’ll taste in every forkful.

Step 3: Steam the Vegetables

While the bacon sizzles, steam your cauliflower and broccoli florets until they’re tender—about 15 to 20 minutes. They should be just soft enough to pierce with a fork without becoming mushy, preserving a lovely bite beneath all that cheesy goodness.

Step 4: Mix the Creamy Base

In a roomy bowl, whisk together the sour cream, mayonnaise, heavy cream, and black pepper. This trifecta of dairy goodness will be the luscious binder for the casserole, enveloping every vegetable in tangy, creamy flavor.

Step 5: Combine the Main Ingredients

To the creamy base, add the steamed cauliflower and broccoli. Stir in half of your crispy bacon, all the sharp cheddar cheese, and half the fresh chives. Mix everything until evenly coated—the more you mix, the more those flavors mingle and make magic.

Step 6: Assemble in the Baking Dish

Lightly spray your favorite casserole dish with cooking spray, then spoon in the prepared veggie and cheese mixture. Top it with the vibrant Colby & Monterey Jack cheese and sprinkle the remaining bacon evenly over the top. That double-layer of cheese and bacon will make your mouth water!

Step 7: Bake Until Bubbling

Cover the casserole tightly with foil and bake for 20 minutes. After that, remove the foil and bake another 5 to 10 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and beginning to turn toasty brown around the edges. Your kitchen will smell absolutely irresistible.

Step 8: Finish and Serve

Sprinkle the rest of your chopped chives over the bubbling casserole for a burst of color and fresh onion flavor. Serve your Loaded Cauliflower Broccoli Casserole piping hot for maximum satisfaction!

How to Serve Loaded Cauliflower Broccoli Casserole

Garnishes

Loaded Cauliflower Broccoli Casserole is always extra special when finished with a big handful of bright green chives or scallions. You can also scatter some additional crispy bacon bits right before serving, or a light dusting of fresh black pepper for even more flavor and eye appeal.

Side Dishes

This casserole is rich and hearty enough to shine as a main, but it also pairs beautifully with lighter sides like a mixed greens salad, grilled chicken, or simple roasted tomatoes. Consider whole-grain bread or a bowl of soup for a truly comforting, complete meal.

Creative Ways to Present

For a party, scoop the casserole into individual ramekins and garnish each with cheese and chives. You can also serve big family-style helpings in the baking dish at the table, or nestle generous spoonfuls inside roasted bell pepper halves for a colorful, festive touch.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers, simply let the casserole cool to room temperature, then transfer it to an airtight container. It will keep well in the refrigerator for three to four days, making it perfect for meal prep or an easy reheat later in the week.

Freezing

This Loaded Cauliflower Broccoli Casserole actually freezes quite well! After baking, let it cool, then wrap tightly in foil or transfer to a freezer-safe dish. It’ll keep for up to two months in the freezer. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating for the best texture.

Reheating

To reheat, cover the dish with foil and gently warm in a 350-degree oven until hot and bubbly. For single servings, the microwave is also quick and convenient. Add a sprinkle of fresh chives after reheating to revive that fresh-made flavor.

FAQs

Can I use frozen broccoli and cauliflower instead of fresh?

Absolutely! Just be sure to fully thaw and drain the veggies before steaming, so your casserole doesn’t end up too watery. The end result still delivers that same incredible flavor and gooey texture.

Is there a way to make this casserole lighter?

Yes! You can swap the regular sour cream and mayonnaise for their light versions, and use turkey bacon if you want to cut down on richness. It won’t lose its signature yum factor.

What other cheeses work well in this recipe?

Mix things up by trying smoked gouda, mozzarella, or even pepper jack for a little heat. The stars here are the sharp cheddar and Colby/Monterey Jack, but the casserole is pretty forgiving to creative cheese combos.

How far in advance can I assemble the casserole?

You can prep and assemble the entire Loaded Cauliflower Broccoli Casserole up to a day ahead. Just store it covered in the fridge and add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it’s going in cold.

Can I make a vegetarian version?

Of course! Simply omit the bacon or use a plant-based bacon alternative. The casserole will still be full of hearty, cheesy flavor and satisfy everyone at the table.

Final Thoughts

If you haven’t tried a veggie casserole this loaded before, you’re in for a treat. This Loaded Cauliflower Broccoli Casserole is a comfort-food classic that never fails to impress, whether you’re serving picky eaters or veggie lovers alike. One taste and it might just become the most requested dish at your table!

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