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Loaded Cauliflower and Broccoli Casserole with Crispy Bacon and Cheddar Recipe

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4 from 40 reviews

  • Author: Sara
  • Total Time: 50 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings

Description

This Loaded Cauliflower Broccoli Casserole is a creamy, cheesy, and satisfying vegetable dish perfect as a comforting side or main. Featuring steamed cauliflower and broccoli mixed with a tangy sour cream and mayonnaise blend, crispy bacon, and a blend of sharp cheddar and Colby Monterey Jack cheese, this casserole is baked until bubbly and golden for a deliciously rich flavor experience.

Ingredients

Vegetables

  • 1/2 large head cauliflower, cut into florets
  • 1/2 large head broccoli, cut into florets

Meat

  • 8 slices of bacon, fried crispy

Dairy & Condiments

  • 1/2 cup sour cream
  • 1/2 cup mayonnaise
  • 1 tablespoon heavy cream
  • 1 cup shredded Colby & Monterey Jack cheese
  • 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese

Spices & Herbs

  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper
  • 6 tablespoons chopped fresh chives, divided

Instructions

  1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 370 degrees Fahrenheit (188 degrees Celsius) to prepare for baking the casserole later.
  2. Cook Bacon: Fry the bacon slices in a large skillet over medium heat until they are crispy. Once cooked, crumble the bacon and set aside, reserving half for mixing and half for topping.
  3. Steam Vegetables: Steam the cauliflower and broccoli florets until tender, about 15 to 20 minutes. This softens the vegetables while retaining their nutrients and flavor.
  4. Mix Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine sour cream, mayonnaise, heavy cream, and black pepper. Add the steamed cauliflower and broccoli, half of the crumbled bacon, sharp cheddar cheese, and three tablespoons of chopped chives. Stir everything together thoroughly to blend all flavors.
  5. Prepare for Baking: Spray a baking dish with cooking spray to prevent sticking. Transfer the vegetable mixture into the dish, then sprinkle the top evenly with the shredded Colby Monterey Jack cheese and the remaining crumbled bacon.
  6. Bake Covered: Cover the dish with foil and bake for 20 minutes. This allows the casserole to heat through and the flavors to meld.
  7. Bake Uncovered: Remove the foil and bake for an additional 5 to 10 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and just beginning to brown, creating a delicious golden crust.
  8. Garnish and Serve: Once baked, garnish the casserole with the remaining chopped chives for a fresh, vibrant touch. Serve immediately while warm and enjoy!

Notes

  • You can substitute Greek yogurt for sour cream to lighten the dish.
  • Steaming vegetables can be done in a steamer basket or microwave with a small amount of water.
  • Use a mixed cheese blend to add depth of flavor.
  • Covering the dish while baking helps retain moisture and prevents the top from drying out too soon.
  • For a vegetarian version, omit bacon and consider adding smoked paprika or liquid smoke for flavor.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 40 minutes
  • Category: Casserole
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Find it online: https://saraflavors.com/loaded-cauliflower-and-broccoli-casserole-with-crispy-bacon-and-cheddar-recipe/