Description
This Broccoli Spinach Casserole combines vibrant greens with creamy plant-based cheese and smoky turkey bacon for a nourishing and comforting family meal. Easy to prepare yet impressive, it offers a perfect balance of texture and flavor that works great as a hearty main or a delicious side dish for any occasion.
Ingredients
Scale
Vegetables
- 500g broccoli florets (fresh or frozen)
- 200g fresh spinach leaves
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
Protein and Cheese
- 150g smoked turkey bacon, diced
- 200g plant-based cheese, shredded or melted
Flavorings and Sauces
- 2 tbsp vegetarian Worcestershire sauce (natural)
- 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar (natural)
- 1 tsp natural gelling agent
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Salt, to taste
- Pepper, to taste
- 1 tsp dried thyme or fresh thyme leaves
Topping
- 100g breadcrumbs
- 1 tbsp olive oil (for toasting breadcrumbs)
Instructions
- Prepare the vegetables: Chop broccoli into bite-sized florets and wash the spinach leaves thoroughly. Lightly steam the broccoli until just tender but still bright green, then drain well. Sauté the spinach in a splash of olive oil over medium heat until wilted and fragrant. Combine the broccoli and spinach in a large mixing bowl.
- Cook the smoked turkey bacon and aromatics: Dice the smoked turkey bacon and cook it gently in a skillet over medium heat until crisp. Remove from the skillet and set aside. In the same pan, sauté the finely chopped onions and garlic until soft and translucent, stirring frequently to prevent browning.
- Mix the creamy sauce: In a separate bowl, whisk together the plant-based cheese, vegetarian Worcestershire sauce (natural), apple cider vinegar (natural), salt, pepper, thyme, and natural gelling agent until smooth and creamy. This sauce will bind the ingredients and add rich flavor.
- Combine all ingredients: Fold the steamed broccoli, sautéed spinach, crisp turkey bacon, and softened aromatics into the creamy sauce. Mix gently but thoroughly to ensure all components are evenly coated with the sauce.
- Bake to perfection: Transfer the mixture to a greased casserole dish. Toss the breadcrumbs lightly with olive oil and sprinkle evenly on top for a crunchy golden crust. Bake in a preheated oven at 180°C (350°F) for 25-30 minutes or until bubbly and golden on top. Let the casserole rest for a few minutes before serving to allow the flavors to settle.
Notes
- Use fresh broccoli and spinach for the best texture and flavor.
- Do not overcook broccoli to keep some firmness inside the casserole.
- Cook turkey bacon slowly over medium heat to maintain its smoky flavor and avoid burning.
- Lightly toast breadcrumbs in olive oil before using for extra crunch.
- Taste and adjust seasoning just before baking for a balanced flavor.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Appetizers
- Method: Baking
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (approx. 180g)
- Calories: 220 kcal
- Sugar: 3 g
- Sodium: 350 mg
- Fat: 12 g
- Saturated Fat: 3 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 18 g
- Fiber: 5 g
- Protein: 10 g
- Cholesterol: 0 mg
Keywords: broccoli spinach casserole, plant-based cheese casserole, turkey bacon casserole, green vegetable casserole, family dinner casserole
