Creamy Cauliflower and Broccoli Casserole with Bacon: The Ultimate Holiday Side Dish
Cheesy sauce and crunchy crumbs make simple veggies the star of every gathering.
Creamy Cauliflower and Broccoli Casserole with Bacon
This rich and flavorful casserole blends cauliflower and broccoli florets in a creamy, cheese-infused sauce, crowned with crispy bacon and a crunchy cracker topping. This dish is especially popular during the holidays, bringing warmth and comfort to family tables. It’s an excellent way to enjoy nutritious vegetables in a way that even picky eaters will love.
Why You’ll Love This Casserole
- Comforting: Creamy and decadent, this casserole transforms simple veggies into a luxurious side dish.
- Crowd-Pleasing: Perfect balance of flavors and textures, making it a hit at gatherings.
- Versatile: It can be prepared ahead, customized with various cheeses, and even served as a main for light dinners.
Ingredients at a Glance
| Ingredient | Amount | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Salted Butter | 4 Tbsp (plus extra for dish) | Flavor, binds crumb topping |
| Kosher Salt | 1 tsp (plus more to taste) | Enhances all flavors |
| Cauliflower Florets | 5 cups | Main vegetable base |
| Broccoli Florets | 5 cups | Main vegetable base |
| Crushed Butter Crackers | 2 cups | Crunchy topping |
| Paprika | 1/2 tsp | Color, slight spice |
| Bacon | 6 slices | Crispy, smoky richness |
| Garlic Cloves | 2, finely chopped | Depth of flavor |
| All-purpose Flour | 3 Tbsp | Thickener for sauce |
| Ground Mustard | 1 tsp | Mild tang |
| Grated Lemon Zest | 1 tsp | Fresh brightness |
| Cayenne Pepper | 1/4 tsp | Subtle heat |
| Whole Milk | 2 1/2 cups | Smooth, creamy sauce |
| Cream Cheese | 4 oz, cubed | Rich, tangy base |
| Cheddar Cheese | 2 cups, grated | Savory, cheesy flavor |
Step-by-Step Directions
- Prep Work:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Butter a 9-by-13-inch baking dish generously so nothing sticks during baking. - Blanch the Vegetables:
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add cauliflower florets and cook for 2 minutes. Now add broccoli and continue to cook until both are crisp-tender—about 2-3 additional minutes. Drain and let them cool. - Cracker Topping:
Melt 2 tablespoons of butter. In a bowl, mix this with crushed butter crackers and paprika. Set this flavorful mixture aside. - Bacon Perfection:
In a large Dutch oven or heavy pot, cook bacon over medium heat, turning until crisp (about 8 minutes). Drain on paper towels. Chop into chunky bits and set aside. - Sauce Construction:
Pour out bacon fat, reserving it. Wipe the pot clean. Add back 1 tablespoon bacon fat and the remaining 2 tablespoons butter. Melt, then add chopped garlic; sauté for 30 seconds. Whisk in salt, ground mustard, lemon zest, and cayenne.
Whisk in milk, bring sauce to a simmer, and cook until thickened (about 3 minutes). Remove from heat, whisk in cream cheese until smooth, followed by cheddar cheese—whisking until sauce is velvety and fully blended. - Combine & Mix:
Fold in broccoli, cauliflower, and chopped bacon, stirring until they’re coated evenly in the cheese sauce. - Assemble:
Transfer mixture to the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle on the cracker crumb topping. - Bake:
Cover dish with foil and bake until bubbly (about 20 minutes). Remove foil and continue baking until the topping is golden—20 to 25 minutes more. Rest for 15 minutes before serving to improve consistency.
Expert Tips for the Perfect Casserole
- Crunch Matters: Always add the cracker topping just before baking so it stays fresh and crispy. Refrigerate the casserole base if prepping ahead, and add crumbs right before baking for best texture.
- Vegetable Prep: Blanching broccoli and cauliflower helps them retain color and structure, preventing mushiness.
- Cheese Choices: Cheddar offers classic flavor, but Monterey Jack, Parmesan, or a mix provides delicious variation.
- Protein Boost: Bacon adds smokiness, but feel free to omit for a vegetarian version; the casserole will still be creamy and satisfying.
Variations and Substitutions
- For Topping: Swap crushed crackers for seasoned breadcrumbs, panko, or more cheese for different textures. Breadcrumbs create a lighter, crispy finish.
- Cheese Options: Use a blend of cheeses—Monterey Jack, Gouda, or even Gruyère bring new notes to the dish.
- Make It Vegetarian: Simply leave out the bacon, and consider adding sautéed mushrooms or leeks for added umami.
- Lighter Version: Substitute half-and-half or 2% milk for whole milk and use reduced-fat cream cheese.
Serving Suggestions
This casserole shines as a side dish at Thanksgiving, Christmas, and other festive meals, pairing beautifully with roast meats, ham, or poultry. Its creamy texture is balanced with the crunch from the topping, making it a favorite for both adults and children. The savory, cheesy bite is comforting, and the vegetables stay front and center.
Make-Ahead and Storage Tips
- Prep Ahead: Assemble the ingredients, excluding the cracker topping, and refrigerate the casserole overnight. Add topping and bake when ready.
- Freeze: Casserole can be frozen before baking. Thaw overnight in the fridge, add fresh cracker topping, and bake as usual.
- Reheat: To reheat leftovers, cover and bake at 350°F until warmed through. The texture remains creamy and satisfying after reheating.
What others are reading
Nutrition Profile
- Vegetable-Rich: Cauliflower and broccoli offer fiber, vitamins C and K, and antioxidants.
- Protein & Calcium: Cheese and bacon add protein and calcium for stronger bones and muscles.
- Low-Carb Alternative: Makes a hearty lower-carb side compared to starchy potato dishes.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I make this casserole without bacon?
A: Absolutely! Simply omit the bacon and add extra veggies or mushrooms for depth.
Q: Can I use frozen broccoli and cauliflower?
A: Yes, but thaw and drain them well to avoid sogginess in your casserole.
Q: What’s the best way to keep the topping crunchy?
A: Add the cracker topping right before baking, never during assembly for make-ahead versions, to ensure crispiness.
Q: Is this recipe suitable for kids?
A: Yes, children love the cheesy flavor and crunchy topping—plus they’re eating their veggies!
Q: Can I make this gluten-free?
A: Substitute gluten-free crackers and flour to make the casserole entirely gluten-free.
Nostalgic Notes: A Casserole with Heart
Like many cherished recipes, this casserole comes with a side of nostalgia. Its creamy cheese sauce and comforting warmth create lasting memories for family gatherings. Pioneer Woman herself has recounted making her casserole while watching her favorite movie—proving good food and good moments are an unbeatable pair.
Recipe Summary Table
| Prep Time | Cook Time | Total Time | Yield |
|---|---|---|---|
| 15 minutes | 40-45 minutes | About 1 hour | 8 servings |
Conclusion
This creamy cauliflower and broccoli casserole with bacon brings together classic flavors and heartwarming textures to create an unforgettable side dish. Perfect for holidays, potlucks, or cozy family dinners, this casserole proves that vegetables, cheese, and a little bacon can turn any meal into a celebration. With tips for perfecting every layer and answers to the top questions, you’ll have everything you need to make this your next family favorite.
References
- https://www.thepioneerwoman.com/food-cooking/recipes/a62804450/cauliflower-and-broccoli-casserole-with-bacon-recipe/
- https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=o5kG3TBiVuY
- https://www.thepioneerwoman.com/food-cooking/recipes/a11888/broccoli-cauliflower-casserole/
- https://www.thepioneerwoman.com/products/a32689593/broccoli-cauliflower-casserole-frozen-side/
- https://www.raleys.com/product/71616753/the-pioneer-woman-broccoli-cauliflower-casserole
Similar Articles
Read full bio of medha deb
