Jamie Oliver’s Cauliflower and Broccoli Casserole is a hearty, comforting dish packed with fresh vegetables, creamy cheese sauce, and a crispy topping. This casserole is perfect as a main course for vegetarians or as a side dish for your favorite roasted meats. With its rich flavors and golden finish, it’s a crowd-pleaser for any occasion.
What is Jamie Oliver’s Cauliflower and Broccoli Casserole?
This casserole combines tender cauliflower and broccoli florets with a creamy cheese sauce, baked to perfection with a golden breadcrumb topping. It’s a versatile and delicious way to enjoy classic vegetables with a luxurious twist.
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Why You Should Try This Recipe
- Comforting and Flavorful: A perfect balance of creamy and crunchy textures.
- Nutrient-rich: Packed with vitamins and minerals from fresh vegetables.
- Easy to Make: Simple steps with minimal prep time.
- Customizable: Adjust the toppings or cheese to suit your taste.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Great as a side dish or a vegetarian main course.
Ingredients Needed to Make Jamie Oliver Cauliflower and Broccoli Casserole
For the Casserole
- Cauliflower (1 medium head, cut into florets): The base of the dish, is tender and mild.
- Broccoli (1 medium head, cut into florets): Adds color and a slightly earthy flavor.
- Butter (50g): For the cheese sauce.
- Plain Flour (50g): Thick the cheese sauce.
- Milk (500ml): Forms the creamy base of the sauce.
- Cheddar Cheese (150g, grated): Adds a sharp, creamy flavor.
- Dijon Mustard (1 tsp): Optional, for a hint of tanginess.
- Salt and Pepper (to taste): For seasoning.
For the Topping
- Breadcrumbs (50g): Adds a golden, crispy texture.
- Parmesan Cheese (30g, grated): For extra cheesy flavor.
- Olive Oil (1 tbsp): Helps the topping crisp up.
- Fresh Thyme or Parsley (1 tbsp, chopped, optional): Adds freshness to the topping.
Equipment Needed
- Large pot
- Mixing bowl
- Casserole dish
- Whisk
Instructions to Make Jamie Oliver Cauliflower and Broccoli Casserole
Step 1: Preheat the oven
Preheat your oven to 200°C (180°C fan) or 400°F.
Step 2: Cook the vegetables
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Blanch the cauliflower and broccoli florets for 3-4 minutes until slightly tender but still firm. Drain and set aside.
Step 3: Make the cheese sauce
In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes to form a roux. Gradually add the milk, whisking constantly, until the sauce thickens. Remove from heat and stir in the grated cheddar cheese, Dijon mustard (if using), and season with salt and pepper.
Step 4: Assemble the casserole
In a casserole dish, arrange the blanched cauliflower and broccoli evenly. Pour the cheese sauce over the vegetables, ensuring they are well coated.
Step 5: Prepare the topping
In a mixing bowl, combine the breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, olive oil, and chopped herbs (if using). Sprinkle the topping evenly over the casserole.
Step 6: Bake the casserole
Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the topping is golden and crispy.
Step 7: Serve
Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with additional herbs if desired.
What Goes Well With Jamie Oliver Cauliflower and Broccoli Casserole
- Roast Chicken or Turkey: A classic pairing for a hearty meal.
- Grilled Fish: Complements the creamy flavors beautifully.
- Salads: Serve alongside a fresh green salad for a balanced meal.
- Mashed Potatoes: Add extra comfort to the dish.
- Garlic Bread: Perfect for scooping up the cheesy sauce.
- Vegetarian Mains: Pair with lentil loaf or stuffed peppers.
Expert Tips for Making the Best Jamie Oliver Cauliflower and Broccoli Casserole
- Don’t Overcook the Vegetables: Blanch them just enough to retain their structure and color.
- Use Freshly Grated Cheese: Melts better and adds superior flavor compared to pre-grated cheese.
- Add Herbs: Fresh thyme, parsley, or chives enhance the dish’s flavor.
- Customize the Topping: Add crushed nuts or seeds for extra crunch.
- Make Ahead: Assemble the casserole and refrigerate it until ready to bake.
Easy Variations of Jamie Oliver Cauliflower and Broccoli Casserole
- Add Bacon: Sprinkle cooked, crumbled bacon over the topping for a smoky flavor.
- Spicy Kick: Add chili flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the cheese sauce.
- Different Cheeses: Use Gruyère, mozzarella, or blue cheese for a twist.
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free flour and breadcrumbs for a coeliac-friendly version.
- Vegan Option: Substitute the cheese and milk with plant-based alternatives.
Best Practices to Store Jamie Oliver Cauliflower and Broccoli Casserole
- Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Reheat: Warm in the oven at 180°C (350°F) until heated through, or microwave individual portions.
- Freeze: Freeze the fully cooked casserole in portions for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight before reheating.
Nutrition Value (per serving):
- Calories: 280
- Protein: 12g
- Carbohydrates: 14g
- Fat: 18g
- Fiber: 3g
FAQs
Can I make cauliflower and broccoli casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the casserole in advance and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. When ready to serve, bake it straight from the fridge, adding an extra 5-10 minutes to the baking time.
How do I prevent the casserole from becoming watery?
To prevent a watery casserole, ensure the cauliflower and broccoli are well-drained after blanching. You can also pat them dry with a clean kitchen towel before assembling the dish.
Can I use frozen cauliflower and broccoli for this recipe?
Yes, frozen vegetables can be used. Thaw them completely and drain any excess moisture before blanching and using in the casserole.
What can I substitute for breadcrumbs in the topping?
If you don’t have breadcrumbs, you can use crushed crackers, panko, or even finely chopped nuts for a crunchy topping.
Final Words
Jamie Oliver’s Cauliflower and Broccoli Casserole is a comforting and versatile dish that’s easy to make and packed with flavor.
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Jamie Oliver Cauliflower and Broccoli Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 15
- Cook Time: 25
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 6
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Blanching and Baking
- Cuisine: British
Description
This casserole combines tender cauliflower and broccoli florets with a creamy cheese sauce, baked to perfection with a golden breadcrumb topping. It’s a versatile and delicious way to enjoy classic vegetables with a luxurious twist.
Ingredients
For the Casserole
- Cauliflower (1 medium head, cut into florets): The base of the dish, is tender and mild.
- Broccoli (1 medium head, cut into florets): Adds color and a slightly earthy flavor.
- Butter (50g): For the cheese sauce.
- Plain Flour (50g): Thick the cheese sauce.
- Milk (500ml): Forms the creamy base of the sauce.
- Cheddar Cheese (150g, grated): Adds a sharp, creamy flavor.
- Dijon Mustard (1 tsp): Optional, for a hint of tanginess.
- Salt and Pepper (to taste): For seasoning.
For the Topping
- Breadcrumbs (50g): Adds a golden, crispy texture.
- Parmesan Cheese (30g, grated): For extra cheesy flavor.
- Olive Oil (1 tbsp): Helps the topping crisp up.
- Fresh Thyme or Parsley (1 tbsp, chopped, optional): Adds freshness to the topping.
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the oven
Preheat your oven to 200°C (180°C fan) or 400°F.
Step 2: Cook the vegetables
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Blanch the cauliflower and broccoli florets for 3-4 minutes until slightly tender but still firm. Drain and set aside.
Step 3: Make the cheese sauce
In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes to form a roux. Gradually add the milk, whisking constantly, until the sauce thickens. Remove from heat and stir in the grated cheddar cheese, Dijon mustard (if using), and season with salt and pepper.
Step 4: Assemble the casserole
In a casserole dish, arrange the blanched cauliflower and broccoli evenly. Pour the cheese sauce over the vegetables, ensuring they are well coated.
Step 5: Prepare the topping
In a mixing bowl, combine the breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, olive oil, and chopped herbs (if using). Sprinkle the topping evenly over the casserole.
Step 6: Bake the casserole
Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the topping is golden and crispy.
Step 7: Serve
Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with additional herbs if desired.
