Description
Creamed Broccoli Casserole is a warm and comforting dish combining tender broccoli florets with crispy smoked turkey bacon and melty plant-based cheese in a creamy, savory sauce made with plant-based milk and natural gelling agent. This family-friendly casserole is easy to prepare and perfect for cozy dinners or special gatherings, offering rich textures and smoky flavors that satisfy both heart and soul.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 4 cups broccoli florets (fresh or frozen)
- 6 slices smoked turkey bacon
- 1 1/2 cups shredded plant-based cheese
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 cup plant-based milk (unsweetened)
- 1/2 cup vegetable broth
- 1 tablespoon vegetarian Worcestershire sauce (natural)
- 1 teaspoon natural gelling agent
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Optional Topping
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Broccoli and Bacon: Blanch the broccoli florets in boiling water for 2 to 3 minutes until bright green and tender-crisp, then drain thoroughly. While the broccoli is cooking, cook the smoked turkey bacon in a pan over medium heat until crispy, then chop into bite-sized pieces.
- Sauté the Aromatics: In the same pan, add olive oil and sauté the finely chopped onion and minced garlic until softened and fragrant, releasing their natural sweetness and building a savory base for the sauce.
- Create the Cream Sauce: To the pan with sautéed aromatics, add plant-based milk, vegetable broth, vegetarian Worcestershire sauce (natural), and natural gelling agent. Stir continuously over medium-low heat until the sauce thickens to a luscious consistency. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Combine the Ingredients: In a large bowl, mix the blanched broccoli, crispy smoked turkey bacon, and shredded plant-based cheese. Pour the warm cream sauce over the mixture and toss gently to coat everything evenly with creamy goodness.
- Bake to Perfection: Transfer the mixture into a greased baking dish. Sprinkle breadcrumbs on top if using. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 25-30 minutes or until bubbly and golden brown on top.
Notes
- Use fresh broccoli whenever possible for better texture and vibrant color.
- Blanch broccoli just until tender-crisp to avoid overcooking and maintain a satisfying bite.
- Toast breadcrumbs with olive oil before topping for extra crunch.
- Mix different varieties of plant-based cheese to deepen flavor complexity.
- Add natural gelling agent gradually to ensure perfect sauce thickness without stiffness.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Appetizers
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 220
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 450mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 10g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: Creamed Broccoli Casserole, plant-based cheese, smoked turkey bacon, creamy broccoli casserole, vegetarian casserole, comfort food
