There’s something about a bubbling casserole straight out of the oven that just feels like home. This Cheesy Broccoli and Cauliflower Casserole brings that warm, Southern comfort right to your table.
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It’s creamy, cheesy, and topped with a buttery cracker crunch that folks can’t resist. Growing up, dishes like this always made their way to the Sunday table or holiday spread and they never lasted long.
A Southern food classic
Down here, casseroles are more than just food. They’re a way of saying “I love you” without needing the words. I remember my mama pulling one out of the oven, the smell of cheddar and bacon filling the house.
We’d all gather around, plates in hand, ready for a scoop of something familiar and filling. That’s what Southern food does, it brings people together and wraps them up in a big, warm hug.
Ingredients
How to make Cheesy Broccoli and Cauliflower Casserole
First, you’ll cook the veggies until they’re just tender. Then, you’ll fry up some bacon until crisp and save a little of that good flavor for the sauce. The sauce comes together with butter, garlic, and a bit of spice before stirring in cream cheese and cheddar to make it rich and smooth.
You’ll mix everything together, pour it into a baking dish, top with buttery cracker crumbs, and bake until golden and bubbly.
Serving suggestions
This casserole makes a great side at family gatherings or Sunday dinners. Serve it next to fried chicken, pot roast, or a baked ham.
It also pairs nicely with a fresh green salad and a big glass of sweet tea. Set it out at potlucks or holiday meals, and watch it disappear fast.
Storage tips
If you have leftovers, let them cool down first. Then cover and store in the fridge for up to 4 days.
You can reheat it in the oven at 350°F until warmed through or pop a serving in the microwave for a quick bite.
Southern farewell
There’s just something comforting about a creamy casserole that takes you back to slow Sundays and kitchen laughter.
This Cheesy Broccoli and Cauliflower Casserole reminds me of those times, and I hope it brings the same warmth to your table. Give it a try, your folks will thank you for it.
Cheesy Broccoli and Cauliflower Casserole with Crispy Bacon
Equipment
- Cutting board
- Sharp Knife
- Large pot or saucepan
- Slotted spoon
- Skillet
- Wooden Spoon or Spatula
- Grater
- Measuring Cups and Spoons
- Medium mixing bowl
- Baking dish
- Oven mitts
Ingredients
- 5 cups bite-sized broccoli pieces
- 5 cups cauliflower florets
- 6 slices thick-cut bacon
- 4 tablespoons butter divided
- 2 cups shredded mild cheddar cheese
- 1 cup whole milk
- 2 cups crushed crackers
- 4 oz cream cheese softened and cubed
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 teaspoon sea salt
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
- ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F. Lightly butter a 9×13-inch baking dish. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the broccoli and cook for 2 minutes. Add the cauliflower and cook for another 2–3 minutes. Drain and set aside.
- Melt 2 tablespoons of butter in a small saucepan. Pour the melted butter over the crushed crackers in a bowl. Add the smoked paprika and stir until well combined. Set aside.
- Place a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Cook the bacon until crispy, about 8 minutes. Transfer to a plate lined with paper towels. Chop into small pieces. Reserve 1 tablespoon of bacon drippings in the pot.
- Add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter to the pot with the bacon drippings. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds. Add the sea salt, lemon zest, and cayenne pepper. Whisk everything together.
- Slowly pour in the milk while whisking constantly. Let it simmer over medium heat for about 3 minutes until it thickens slightly.
- Take the pot off the heat. Add the cream cheese and stir until smooth. Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until melted.
- Add the drained broccoli and cauliflower to the pot. Fold in the chopped bacon. Stir everything gently until the veggies are well coated with the cheese sauce. Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish.
- Sprinkle the cracker topping evenly over the casserole. Cover the dish with foil. Bake for 20 minutes.
- Remove the foil and continue baking for another 20–25 minutes, until the top is golden and the casserole is bubbling. Let it rest for 15 minutes before serving.
