Looking for a hearty yet wholesome dish that brings together bold flavors and creamy textures? This Cauliflower and Broccoli Casserole with Smoked Sausage offers a delicious combination of vegetables and savory sausage, all baked together in a rich, cheesy sauce. Whether you’re preparing for a weeknight dinner or a potluck, this casserole is sure to impress. The smoked sausage adds a burst of flavor while the creamy sauce, infused with Dijon mustard and garlic, ties everything together for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound broccoli florets
- ½ pound cauliflower florets
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- 1 small yellow onion, finely diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 12 ounces of smoked sausage (Polish or Andouille), sliced into 1-inch rounds
- 8 ounces of cream cheese, softened and cut into cubes for smooth mixing
- ½ cup mayonnaise (or swap with plain yogurt or sour cream if preferred)
- 2 cups of shredded Mexican blend cheese, divided
- 2 tablespoons of Dijon mustard
- Salt and freshly cracked black pepper, to taste
Instructions:
- Prepare the Vegetables:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Steam or blanch the broccoli and cauliflower florets in salted water for 4-5 minutes, until they are slightly tender but still crisp. Drain and set aside.
- Cook the Sausage and Aromatics:
- In a large skillet, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat.
- Add the diced onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until softened.
- Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 1 minute, until fragrant.
- Add the sliced smoked sausage to the skillet and cook for 5-6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sausage is browned on the edges. Remove from heat.
- Make the Creamy Cheese Sauce:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the room-temperature cream cheese, mayonnaise (or yogurt/sour cream), 1 ½ cups of shredded Mexican cheese blend, and Dijon mustard. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Stir until everything is well mixed and smooth.
- Assemble the Casserole:
- In a greased 9×13-inch casserole dish, evenly layer the steamed broccoli and cauliflower florets.
- Pour the cooked sausage, onions, and garlic over the vegetables.
- Spread the creamy cheese mixture over the top, ensuring it coats the sausage and vegetables evenly.
- Sprinkle the remaining ½ cup of shredded Mexican cheese blend on top.
- Bake the Casserole:
- Place the casserole dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese on top is melted and bubbly and the edges are golden brown.
- For an extra crispy top, you can switch the oven to broil for the last 2-3 minutes, but watch it carefully to avoid burning.
- Serve:
- Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
- Garnish with chopped parsley or extra cheese, if desired.
Conclusion:
This Creamy Cauliflower and Broccoli Casserole with Smoked Sausage is the perfect comfort dish, combining the wholesome goodness of vegetables with the savory depth of smoked sausage. The creamy cheese sauce, enhanced by the tangy Dijon mustard and garlic, makes this casserole irresistibly delicious. Whether served as a main course or a hearty side dish, it’s a satisfying meal that the whole family will enjoy. Serve it alongside a fresh green salad or some crusty bread, and enjoy the comforting flavors in every bite!