Creamy Dreamy: The Ultimate Vegetarian Broccoli Casserole II Recipe

Broccoli casserole is a classic comfort food, often associated with holiday gatherings and family dinners. While many versions include meat, this vegetarian adaptation, which we affectionately call “Vegetarian Broccoli Casserole II,” offers a delicious and satisfying meat-free alternative. It’s creamy, cheesy, and packed with the goodness of broccoli, making it a crowd-pleaser for vegetarians and meat-eaters alike. This recipe builds upon traditional broccoli casserole ideas, enhancing the flavor profile with carefully selected ingredients and techniques. Prepare to elevate your casserole game with this ultimate version!

Why This Recipe Works

This Vegetarian Broccoli Casserole II is more than just a simple side dish; it’s a complete and flavorful vegetarian meal. Here’s why it’s so good:

* **Creamy Texture:** The combination of cream of mushroom soup (or a vegetarian substitute), sour cream, and cheddar cheese creates an incredibly creamy and comforting texture.
* **Flavorful Base:** Sautéed onions and garlic provide a savory base that complements the broccoli beautifully.
* **Cheesy Goodness:** A generous amount of cheddar cheese, both inside the casserole and on top, ensures that every bite is cheesy and delicious.
* **Crunchy Topping:** The crispy fried onions add a delightful crunch that contrasts perfectly with the creamy interior.
* **Vegetarian-Friendly:** This recipe is completely vegetarian, making it a great option for those who don’t eat meat.
* **Adaptable:** Easily adaptable to suit different dietary needs and preferences (see variations below).

Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s a detailed list of the ingredients you’ll need to make this amazing Vegetarian Broccoli Casserole II:

* **Broccoli:** 2 pounds fresh broccoli florets, or two 10-ounce packages of frozen broccoli florets (thawed and drained).
* **Onion:** 1 medium yellow onion, chopped.
* **Garlic:** 2 cloves garlic, minced.
* **Butter:** 4 tablespoons (1/2 cup) unsalted butter.
* **All-Purpose Flour:** 4 tablespoons.
* **Milk:** 2 cups milk (whole milk recommended for richness, but any milk will work).
* **Cream of Mushroom Soup:** 1 (10.75-ounce) can cream of mushroom soup (or vegetarian cream of mushroom soup substitute).
* **Sour Cream:** 1 cup sour cream (or Greek yogurt for a tangier flavor).
* **Cheddar Cheese:** 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided (reserve 1 cup for topping).
* **Salt and Pepper:** To taste.
* **Crispy Fried Onions:** 1 1/2 cups crispy fried onions, divided (reserve 1/2 cup for topping).
* **Optional Ingredients:**
* Nutmeg: A pinch of nutmeg adds warmth and depth of flavor.
* Red Pepper Flakes: A pinch of red pepper flakes adds a subtle kick.
* Vegetable Broth: Use vegetable broth instead of some of the milk for added flavor.
* Different Cheeses: Experiment with other cheeses like Gruyere, Monterey Jack, or Parmesan.

Equipment Needed

* Large Pot or Steamer (for cooking broccoli).
* Large Skillet or Sauté Pan.
* 9×13 inch Baking Dish.
* Mixing Bowls.
* Measuring Cups and Spoons.
* Whisk.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these detailed instructions to create the perfect Vegetarian Broccoli Casserole II:

**Step 1: Prepare the Broccoli**

1. **Fresh Broccoli:** If using fresh broccoli, wash the florets thoroughly and cut them into bite-sized pieces. Steam or boil the broccoli until tender-crisp, about 5-7 minutes. Be careful not to overcook it; you want it to retain some firmness. Drain well.
2. **Frozen Broccoli:** If using frozen broccoli, thaw it completely and squeeze out any excess water. This is crucial to prevent a watery casserole. You can thaw it in the refrigerator overnight or use the microwave (following package instructions). Make sure to drain very well.

**Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics**

1. In a large skillet or sauté pan, melt the butter over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and sauté until softened and translucent, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and sauté for another minute until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic.

**Step 3: Make the Cream Sauce**

1. Sprinkle the flour over the sautéed onions and garlic. Cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, to create a roux. This will help thicken the sauce.
2. Gradually whisk in the milk, making sure to smooth out any lumps. Continue whisking until the sauce is smooth and starts to thicken, about 3-5 minutes.
3. Stir in the cream of mushroom soup and sour cream. Mix well until everything is combined.
4. Remove the skillet from the heat.

**Step 4: Assemble the Casserole**

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked broccoli, cream sauce, and 1 cup of the shredded cheddar cheese. Add 1 cup of the crispy fried onions. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Add a pinch of nutmeg and red pepper flakes, if desired.
3. Pour the mixture into the prepared 9×13 inch baking dish.
4. Spread the remaining 1 cup of cheddar cheese evenly over the top of the casserole.
5. Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of crispy fried onions over the cheese.

**Step 5: Bake the Casserole**

1. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and lightly golden brown.
2. Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving. This allows the sauce to set up slightly.

Tips for Success

* **Don’t Overcook the Broccoli:** Overcooked broccoli will be mushy and unpleasant. Aim for tender-crisp.
* **Drain Broccoli Thoroughly:** Excess moisture will make the casserole watery. Ensure the broccoli is well-drained, especially if using frozen broccoli.
* **Make a Smooth Sauce:** Whisk the milk into the roux gradually to prevent lumps.
* **Taste and Adjust Seasoning:** Before baking, taste the casserole mixture and adjust the seasoning as needed. You may need more salt, pepper, or other spices depending on your preference.
* **Use Good Quality Cheese:** The quality of the cheese will affect the flavor of the casserole. Use a good quality cheddar cheese for the best results.
* **Don’t Burn the Garlic:** Burnt garlic can make the casserole taste bitter. Sauté the garlic over low heat and watch it carefully.
* **Prepare Ahead:** You can assemble the casserole ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Add the cheese and crispy fried onions just before baking.

Variations and Substitutions

* **Gluten-Free:** Use gluten-free flour and gluten-free cream of mushroom soup to make this casserole gluten-free. Also, ensure the crispy fried onions are gluten-free.
* **Dairy-Free:** Use dairy-free milk, dairy-free sour cream, and dairy-free cheese to make this casserole dairy-free. You can also make your own cashew cream sauce.
* **Vegan:** In addition to the dairy-free substitutions, use a vegan cream of mushroom soup substitute.
* **Lower-Fat:** Use low-fat milk, low-fat sour cream, and reduced-fat cheese. You can also reduce the amount of butter used to sauté the onions and garlic.
* **Add Vegetables:** Add other vegetables like chopped carrots, bell peppers, or mushrooms to the casserole.
* **Use Different Cheeses:** Experiment with different cheeses like Gruyere, Monterey Jack, or Parmesan.
* **Spice it Up:** Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the casserole for a spicy kick.
* **Homemade Cream of Mushroom Soup:** For an even more flavorful casserole, make your own cream of mushroom soup from scratch.

Serving Suggestions

Vegetarian Broccoli Casserole II is a versatile dish that can be served as a side dish or a main course. Here are some serving suggestions:

* **Side Dish:** Serve alongside roasted chicken, grilled steak, or vegetarian meatloaf.
* **Main Course:** Serve with a side salad and crusty bread for a complete vegetarian meal.
* **Holiday Meal:** A perfect addition to your Thanksgiving or Christmas dinner.
* **Potluck Dish:** Easy to transport and always a crowd-pleaser.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

* **Storage:** Store leftover Vegetarian Broccoli Casserole II in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
* **Reheating:** Reheat the casserole in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. You can also reheat it in the microwave, but it may not be as crispy. If reheating in the oven, cover with foil to prevent the top from burning.

Nutritional Information (Approximate)

* Calories: 350-450 per serving (depending on ingredients and serving size)
* Fat: 25-35g
* Protein: 10-15g
* Carbohydrates: 20-30g

*Note: Nutritional information is approximate and may vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes.*

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

**Q: Can I use frozen broccoli?**
A: Yes, you can use frozen broccoli. Just make sure to thaw it completely and drain it very well to remove excess moisture.

**Q: Can I make this casserole ahead of time?**
A: Yes, you can assemble the casserole ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Add the cheese and crispy fried onions just before baking.

**Q: Can I freeze this casserole?**
A: While you *can* freeze it, the texture may change slightly upon thawing. Dairy-based casseroles sometimes become grainy after freezing. If you do freeze it, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then foil. Thaw completely in the refrigerator before reheating.

**Q: What can I use instead of cream of mushroom soup?**
A: You can use a vegetarian cream of mushroom soup substitute, or make your own cream sauce using mushrooms, milk, and flour.

**Q: Can I add meat to this casserole?**
A: While this recipe is designed to be vegetarian, you can add cooked chicken, ham, or bacon if you prefer. Adjust cooking times as needed.

**Q: The casserole is too watery, what did I do wrong?**
A: Likely, the broccoli wasn’t drained well enough. Next time, ensure the broccoli is thoroughly drained, especially if using frozen broccoli. You can even press it gently with paper towels to remove excess moisture.

**Q: My crispy fried onions burned. How can I prevent this?**
A: The crispy fried onions can burn easily. Add them for the last 5-10 minutes of baking time, or cover the casserole with foil for the majority of the baking time, removing it only to brown the cheese and onions at the end.

Conclusion

This Vegetarian Broccoli Casserole II is a delicious and comforting dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With its creamy texture, cheesy flavor, and crunchy topping, it’s sure to be a hit with everyone. So gather your ingredients, follow the steps, and get ready to enjoy the ultimate broccoli casserole!