Creamy Vegan Broccoli Casserole Recipe

In my house, broccoli is a forbidden word. The moment my kids hear it, they run for the door. But I am a millennial mom, and if there's one thing I need to do, is that I need to get my kids to eat broccoli. So this easy-to-make, creamy cheesy vegan broccoli casserole is my solution for a tasty and nutritious dish that pleases even the pickiest eaters.

With two kids who don't shouldn't eat dairy, I needed to reimage this comfort food classic for those with dairy sensitivities or vegan diets. The creamy, cheesy texture and flavor come from plant-based soaked cashews, nutritional yeast, and non-dairy milk, making this cheesy broccoli casserole a perfect choice for families with dietary restrictions.

This recipe was born out of a desire to create a healthier version of a beloved dish. It combines the goodness of broccoli with a rich, satisfying sauce that kids and adults alike will enjoy. The broccoli is tender, the homemade alfredo sauce adds a luxurious touch, and the crispy breadcrumb topping provides some crunch and a great contrast in textures.

For busy families looking to incorporate more vegetables into their meals, this vegan broccoli cheese casserole is a lifesaver. It's really easy to make, and though I used fresh broccoli when originally creating this recipe, since then I've made it with frozen bags of broccoli as well. It's also really easy to make this casserole ahead of time, and even freeze it for later.

In short, this easy-to-whip dish is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients, making it a win-win for parents and children. You're going to love this recipe, and if not, then don't tell me about it. 

• Broccoli florets: Rich in vitamins and fiber; fresh or frozen will work.
• Cashews: Provides creamy texture. You can sub with soft tofu or silken tofu. 
• Plant-based milk: Adds creaminess; any unsweetened variety works (almond, soy, oat).
• Nutritional yeast: Gives cheesy flavor; can use vegan cheese shreds or omit them for a less cheesy taste.
• Lemon juice: Adds tanginess.
• Garlic powder: Enhances flavor.
• Onion flakes: Adds depth. Can use onion powder instead.
• Salt and pepper: Enhance overall flavor.
• Breadcrumbs: Creates crispy topping; can use crushed crackers, panko, or gluten-free breadcrumbs.

See recipe card for exact quantities.

Preheat the Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures your casserole will bake evenly and achieve that perfect golden-brown top.

Prepare the Broccoli

For this cheesy broccoli casserole, you can use either fresh or frozen broccoli. If using fresh, cut it into bite-sized florets. Blanch the broccoli until it's tender but still has a slight crunch. This step ensures your broccoli is cooked perfectly in the final dish.

Create the Vegan Cheese Sauce

This creamy vegan sauce is the heart of your casserole. In a blender or food processor, combine soaked cashews, plant-based milk, nutritional yeast, lemon juice, garlic powder, onion flakes (or powder), salt, and black pepper. Blend until smooth to create a rich, dairy-free cheese sauce that rivals any traditional cheese sauce.

Assemble the Casserole

Add the broccoli to a 9x13-inch baking dish. Pour the vegan cheese sauce over the broccoli, ensuring it's evenly distributed. Gently stir to combine to coat all the broccoli with the sauce.

Coat with cheesy topping

Sprinkle breadcrumbs evenly over the top of your casserole. This will create a crispy, golden crust that adds texture to your dish. If adding some vegan cheese on top, this is the time to throw it on!

Bake

Place your casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes. You'll know it's done when the top is golden brown and the sauce is bubbling around the edges.

Serve cheesy broccoli casserole

After removing it from the oven, let your casserole cool for about 5 minutes. This allows the sauce to set slightly, making it easier to serve. After this short wait, your vegan broccoli casserole is ready to serve as a delicious main dish or a hearty side!

Accompanying Dishes And Serving Suggestions

To complement your vegan casserole, try accompanying it with brown rice and air-fried tofu or air fryer asparagus for more greens. This is a protein-rich, crispy vegan protein that contrasts nicely with the creamy casserole.

For a sweet finish to your meal, this Gingerbread Loaf Casserole is an excellent choice. Its warm spices and comforting texture make it a perfect dessert, especially during colder months. The gingerbread flavors go exceptionally well with this creamy, easy, and healthy casserole.