Description
A deliciously cheesy and flavorful broccoli and cauliflower bake topped with a crispy, spiced gluten-free panko crust. This easy 35-minute casserole is perfect as a comforting side dish or a light main, combining tender steamed vegetables with gooey mozzarella and a crunchy, smoky topping.
Ingredients
Vegetables
- 1 cup broccoli florets
- 3 cups cauliflower florets
Topping
- 1 cup gluten-free panko crumbs
- ¼ cup extra virgin olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 1 teaspoon fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
Cheese
- 1½ cups mozzarella cheese
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 450ºF to get it ready for baking the casserole.
- Boil Vegetables: Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Add the broccoli and cauliflower florets and cook for 3-4 minutes to slightly tenderize them without fully cooking, as they will bake later. Drain and set aside.
- Prepare Topping Mixture: In a small bowl, combine the gluten-free panko crumbs, extra virgin olive oil, dried oregano, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, chopped fresh parsley, and black pepper. Mix everything thoroughly so the spices and oil coat the crumbs evenly. Set aside.
- Assemble Casserole: Lightly spray a medium-sized casserole dish with cooking spray. Add the steamed broccoli and cauliflower florets to the dish and sprinkle the mozzarella cheese evenly over the vegetables.
- Add Topping: Evenly spread the panko crumb mixture over the mozzarella and vegetables, creating a flavorful and crispy crust.
- Bake: Place the casserole dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 15 minutes, until the topping is golden brown and the cheese has melted and is bubbly. Remove from oven and let cool slightly before serving.
Notes
- Do not overboil the vegetables; 3-4 minutes is enough to soften them slightly for baking.
- Use gluten-free panko crumbs to keep the dish gluten-free as intended.
- Adjust cayenne pepper according to your preferred spice level.
- For an extra cheesy top, sprinkle some additional mozzarella on the panko mix before baking.
- This dish pairs well as a side with grilled chicken or fish or as a vegetarian main.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
