Broccoli Casserole Recipe

Broccoli florets: Fresh broccoli cut into small, bite-sized pieces.

Quinoa: A protein-packed grain that adds texture and nutrition.

Almond milk: A dairy-free milk alternative that provides creaminess.

Nutritional yeast: A deactivated yeast that adds a cheesy flavor.

Chopped onions: Adds sweetness and depth of flavor when sautéed.

Garlic: Provides a robust and aromatic flavor.

Olive oil: Used for sautéing the onions and garlic.

When sautéing the onions and garlic, make sure to use medium heat to avoid burning them. This will ensure they become soft and translucent, adding a sweet and savory depth to the casserole. If you want to enhance the flavor even more, consider adding a pinch of salt while sautéing.

• Broccoli florets - Substitute with cauliflower florets: Cauliflower has a similar texture and can be used in place of broccoli for a different flavor profile.

• Cooked quinoa - Substitute with cooked brown rice: Brown rice provides a similar texture and nutritional benefits, making it a good alternative to quinoa.

• Almond milk - Substitute with soy milk: Soy milk has a similar consistency and can be used as a direct replacement for almond milk in vegan recipes.

• Nutritional yeast - Substitute with vegan parmesan: Vegan parmesan can provide a similar cheesy flavor and nutritional benefits as nutritional yeast.

• Chopped onions - Substitute with leeks: Leeks offer a milder flavor compared to onions and can be used to add a subtle onion-like taste to the casserole.

• Garlic, minced - Substitute with garlic powder: Garlic powder can be used as a convenient alternative to fresh garlic, providing a similar flavor.

• Olive oil - Substitute with avocado oil: Avocado oil has a high smoke point and a neutral flavor, making it a suitable replacement for olive oil in cooking.

• Allow the broccoli casserole to cool completely before storing. This helps prevent condensation, which can make the dish soggy.
• Transfer the cooled casserole to an airtight container. If you don't have one large enough, you can use multiple smaller containers.
• For short-term storage, place the container in the refrigerator. The casserole will stay fresh for up to 3-4 days.
• If you plan to store the casserole for a longer period, consider freezing it. Wrap the container in a layer of plastic wrap followed by a layer of aluminum foil. This double layer helps prevent freezer burn.
• Label the container with the date to keep track of its freshness.
• When ready to reheat, if the casserole is frozen, allow it to thaw in the refrigerator overnight.
• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Transfer the casserole to an oven-safe dish if it isn't already in one.
• Cover the dish with aluminum foil to prevent the top from drying out and bake for about 20-25 minutes, or until heated through. If you prefer a crispy top, remove the foil during the last 5 minutes of baking.
• For a quicker reheating option, you can use a microwave. Place a portion of the casserole in a microwave-safe dish, cover it loosely, and heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through to ensure even heating.

• Oven Method: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the leftover broccoli casserole in an oven-safe dish. Cover it with aluminum foil to prevent it from drying out. Heat for about 20-25 minutes or until it's warmed through and bubbly. This method helps maintain the casserole's texture and flavor.

• Microwave Method: Transfer a portion of the casserole to a microwave-safe dish. Cover it with a microwave-safe lid or a damp paper towel to retain moisture. Heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through to ensure even heating. This is a quick and convenient option, though it may slightly alter the texture.

• Stovetop Method: Place the leftover broccoli casserole in a non-stick skillet or saucepan. Add a splash of almond milk or vegetable broth to prevent sticking and to add moisture. Heat over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, until warmed through. This method is great for small portions and helps keep the casserole moist.

• Air Fryer Method: Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C). Place the casserole in an air fryer-safe dish or use aluminum foil to create a makeshift tray. Heat for about 10-12 minutes, checking halfway through to ensure it doesn't overcook. This method can give the casserole a slightly crispy top, adding a delightful texture.

• Toaster Oven Method: Preheat your toaster oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the broccoli casserole in a toaster oven-safe dish. Cover with aluminum foil to keep it from drying out. Heat for 15-20 minutes or until it's hot and bubbly. This method is perfect for reheating smaller portions without using a full-sized oven.

• Oven: Used to bake the casserole at 350°F (175°C) until it is golden and bubbly.

• Steamer: Utilized to steam the broccoli florets until they are tender.

• Pan: Necessary for sautéing the onions and garlic in olive oil until they become translucent.

• Mixing bowl: Used to mix the almond milk, nutritional yeast, salt, and pepper together.

• Baking dish: The vessel in which the broccoli, quinoa, and sautéed onions and garlic are combined and baked.

• Measuring cups: Essential for accurately measuring the broccoli florets, cooked quinoa, almond milk, and nutritional yeast.

• Measuring spoons: Used to measure out the olive oil and any additional seasonings like salt and pepper.

• Knife: Required for chopping the onions and mincing the garlic.

• Cutting board: Provides a surface for chopping the onions and mincing the garlic.

• Wooden spoon: Handy for stirring the sautéed onions and garlic as well as mixing the ingredients in the baking dish.

• Whisk: Useful for blending the almond milk mixture smoothly.

• Oven mitts: Important for safely handling the hot baking dish when placing it in and removing it from the oven.

Pre-steam broccoli: Steam broccoli florets in advance and store them in the fridge to save time on cooking day.

Cook quinoa ahead: Prepare and refrigerate cooked quinoa earlier in the week to streamline the process.

Use pre-chopped onions: Purchase pre-chopped onions to cut down on prep time.

Minced garlic in a jar: Opt for jarred minced garlic to avoid the hassle of peeling and chopping.

Mix sauce in a blender: Blend almond milk and nutritional yeast together for a quick and smooth sauce.