Broccoli Cauliflower Cheese Casserole with Dried Beans

A warm, hearty casserole can be the perfect dish for any season. Combining broccoli, cauliflower, cheese, and dried beans results in a creamy, satisfying meal that is as comforting as it is nutritious. Whether you’re hosting a dinner or looking for a vegetarian main course, this casserole offers plenty of flavor and versatility. If you’re a fan of easy, wholesome dinners, check out these sheet pan dinners with chicken and dried beans for more inspiration to elevate your weeknight meals.

Why Make This Casserole?

This casserole stands out not only for its delicious taste but also for its nutritional profile. Broccoli and cauliflower are nutrient-dense vegetables, rich in vitamins C and K. These vitamins support immune health, bone strength, and cellular repair, making this dish a health-conscious choice. Dried beans, on the other hand, are a plant-based protein powerhouse. They add fiber, which aids digestion, and create a hearty texture that complements the vegetables perfectly. The cheese adds a creamy texture and satisfies your comfort food cravings while providing calcium to support bone health. For another cozy and innovative casserole idea, explore this black vegetarian pastitsio with dried beans. It’s a modern twist on a classic Mediterranean dish.

Another benefit of this recipe is its versatility. You can easily adapt the ingredients to suit various dietary preferences, making it gluten-free, vegan, or low-carb depending on your needs. Plus, it’s a great way to use up vegetables or beans you already have in your pantry. Whether you’re meal-prepping for the week or hosting a large family gathering, this casserole is sure to please everyone at the table.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s everything required to make this flavorful casserole:

1 head broccoli (cut into small florets)
1 head cauliflower (cut into small florets)
1 cup cooked dried beans (e.g., cannellini, chickpeas, or black beans)
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (or your preferred cheese)
2 tbsp butter
2 tbsp all-purpose flour (or gluten-free flour for a GF version)
1 ½ cups low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth
½ cup milk (dairy or plant-based, such as almond or oat milk)
½ cup breadcrumbs (use gluten-free panko if necessary)
½ tsp paprika
1 tsp garlic powder
Salt and pepper to taste

For best results, use fresh vegetables and freshly grated cheese. Pre-shredded cheese often contains anti-caking agents that can affect the creaminess of the sauce. If you prefer, swap out some of the cheese for nutritional yeast for a nutty, umami flavor with fewer calories.

Step-by-Step Recipe

1. Prepare the Vegetables

Begin by washing the broccoli and cauliflower thoroughly. Trim off any tough stems and cut the vegetables into small, bite-sized florets to ensure even cooking. Steam the vegetables for 3–4 minutes until slightly tender but still firm. Steaming helps retain their bright color and nutritional value. If you don’t have a steamer, blanch the vegetables in boiling water for 2 minutes, then transfer them to an ice bath to stop the cooking process. Set them aside on a clean kitchen towel to drain any excess water.

2. Cook the Dried Beans

If you’re using dried beans, soak them overnight in a large bowl of water. This step not only softens the beans but also reduces cooking time and removes indigestible sugars that can cause bloating. Once soaked, drain the beans and boil them in fresh water until tender, which typically takes 1–1.5 hours. For faster preparation, consider using a pressure cooker or an Instant Pot. For tips on perfecting your dried bean recipes, check out this ultimate guide to making black bean soup in an Instant Pot. If you’re short on time, canned beans work as a quick alternative, but rinse them thoroughly to remove excess sodium.

3. Make the Cheese Sauce

In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the flour and whisk continuously to form a smooth paste, known as a roux. This step is crucial for thickening the sauce and preventing lumps. Slowly pour in the broth while whisking to incorporate it fully. Once the mixture starts to thicken, add the milk and continue whisking until the sauce reaches a creamy consistency. Lower the heat and stir in the shredded cheese, a handful at a time, to ensure it melts evenly. Add the garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper to taste. If you prefer a spicier kick, sprinkle in a pinch of cayenne pepper or smoked paprika.

Pro Tip: If the sauce appears too thick, add a splash of milk to thin it out. Conversely, if it’s too runny, simmer it for a few extra minutes to thicken.

4. Assemble the Casserole

Grease a 9×13-inch casserole dish with butter or cooking spray. Begin layering the casserole by placing half of the broccoli, cauliflower, and dried beans at the bottom of the dish. Pour half of the cheese sauce over the vegetables, using a spatula to spread it evenly. Repeat with the remaining vegetables and sauce, ensuring the top layer is fully coated for maximum creaminess.

5. Add the Breadcrumb Topping

For a golden, crispy topping, mix the breadcrumbs with a tablespoon of melted butter until evenly coated. Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture over the top of the casserole. For a gluten-free version, use crushed nuts or gluten-free breadcrumbs instead.

6. Bake

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Cover the casserole dish with foil to prevent the topping from burning and bake for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10–15 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the casserole is bubbling at the edges. Allow the dish to cool for 5–10 minutes before serving to let the layers settle.

Serving Ideas and Variations

This dish is incredibly versatile and pairs well with a variety of sides and main courses. Serve it as a standalone vegetarian meal, or pair it with roasted chicken, grilled salmon, or turkey breast. If you’re planning a holiday dinner, consider serving it alongside this cranberry and red wine sauce for a touch of festive flavor.

For an extra layer of indulgence, top the casserole with additional shredded cheese or crumbled feta before baking. If you enjoy spicy food, sprinkle the topping with crushed red pepper flakes or drizzle with sriracha before serving.

Creative Variations

For Vegans: Replace the cheese with a plant-based alternative and use coconut milk for the sauce. Nutritional yeast can also add a cheesy flavor without the dairy.
Add Protein: Include shredded chicken, diced ham, or crumbled sausage for a heartier dish.
Global Flavors: Add curry powder and cumin for an Indian-inspired twist, or use green chilies and black beans for a Tex-Mex version.

FAQs About the Recipe

Can I use frozen broccoli and cauliflower?

Yes, frozen vegetables are a convenient alternative. Thaw them completely and pat them dry with a paper towel to remove excess moisture. This prevents the casserole from becoming watery.

What beans are best for this recipe?

Cannellini beans, chickpeas, or black beans work beautifully. Each adds a unique texture and flavor to the dish, so feel free to experiment.

Is this dish gluten-free?

It can be made gluten-free by using gluten-free flour and breadcrumbs. Ensure all other ingredients, such as broth and cheese, are certified gluten-free if needed.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, assemble the casserole and refrigerate it (unbaked) for up to 24 hours. When ready to serve, bake it as instructed, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time if needed.

How do I store leftovers?

Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or the entire casserole in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through. For longer storage, freeze the casserole in portions for up to 3 months.

Conclusion

This broccoli cauliflower cheese casserole with dried beans is the ultimate comfort food. Packed with flavor, nutrients, and endless customization options, it’s a dish that’s as practical as it is delicious. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or meal-prepping for the week, this casserole is guaranteed to satisfy. Experiment with variations or explore more recipes on Cook Horizon for endless culinary inspiration. Happy cooking!