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Dairy-Free Broccoli Cheddar Casserole in baking dish

Dairy-Free Broccoli Cheddar Casserole

Matteo
A creamy, gluten- and dairy-free casserole made with broccoli, brown rice, and a rich plant-based 'cheddar' sauce. Comfort food without compromise, perfect for chilly evenings, holidays, or meal prep.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Course Dinner
Cuisine Italian American Fusion
Servings 6 servings
Calories 370 kcal

Equipment

  • large skillet
  • blender (high-speed preferred)
  • mixing bowl
  • spatula
  • 9x13-inch casserole dish
  • oven

Ingredients
  

  • 3 cups cooked brown rice (or white rice, quinoa, or cauliflower rice)
  • 4 cups broccoli florets (fresh or frozen)
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 small onion, diced
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 cup raw cashews (soaked in hot water 20 mins, drained)
  • 1 1/4 cups unsweetened almond milk or oat milk
  • 1/4 cup nutritional yeast
  • 1 tbsp lemon juice
  • 1 tsp Dijon mustard
  • 1/2 tsp turmeric
  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder
  • 1/2 tsp onion powder
  • salt and pepper to taste
  • 1/2 cup gluten-free breadcrumbs (optional topping)
  • 1 tbsp olive oil (for drizzling, optional)
  • sprinkle of smoked paprika or herbs (optional)

Instructions
 

  • Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a medium-sized casserole dish or 9x13-inch baking dish with olive oil or nonstick spray.
  • In a large skillet over medium heat, warm the olive oil. Sauté the diced onion for 3–4 minutes until translucent, then add the minced garlic and cook for another minute. Add the broccoli and a splash of water. Cover and steam for about 5 minutes, or until tender-crisp.
  • While the veggies cook, blend all sauce ingredients (cashews, almond milk, nutritional yeast, lemon juice, Dijon, turmeric, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper) in a high-speed blender until completely smooth. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
  • In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked rice, broccoli mixture, and sauce. Stir gently to coat everything evenly.
  • Pour the mixture into your prepared baking dish. Spread it evenly with a spatula. If using breadcrumbs, sprinkle them over the top and drizzle with olive oil.
  • Bake for 20–25 minutes until the top is golden and slightly crisp. Let it rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Notes

Make this casserole nut-free by substituting cashews with sunflower seeds or white beans. Swap rice with quinoa, mashed sweet potatoes, or roasted cauliflower for a different base. Prep it ahead of time and bake when ready for an easy weeknight solution.

Nutrition

Calories: 370kcalCarbohydrates: 32gProtein: 12gFat: 23gSaturated Fat: 3gPolyunsaturated Fat: 4gMonounsaturated Fat: 10gSodium: 310mgPotassium: 610mgFiber: 5gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 1020IUVitamin C: 58mgCalcium: 80mgIron: 2.3mg
Keyword broccoli cheddar bake, dairy free casserole, gluten-free dinner, plant based comfort food
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