Description
Vegan Potato Broccoli Casserole
This comforting casserole is creamy, delicious, and made entirely with plant-based ingredients! Inspired by traditional potato bakes, this vegan version features a rich, dairy-free sauce and hearty potatoes and broccoli. It’s perfect for a cozy family meal, and can even be topped with vegan cheese for extra flavor. Try this healthy, easy-to-make dish that’s just as satisfying as its classic counterpart!
2.2 lbs potatoes
17.6 oz broccoli
1 cup dairy-free cream
Herbs, garlic, spices
Vegan butter, flour, veg broth, nutritional yeast
Directions:
1. Cook potatoes and broccoli in a seasoned dairy-free cream.
2. Prepare a vegan “melty” sauce with butter, flour, and broth.
3. Combine and bake at 356 ºF for 45 mins.
Prep Time: 65 mins
Kcal: 428 per serving
Step-by-Step Guide
1. Prep the Vegetables: Peel and thinly slice the potatoes (about 1/8-inch thick). Cut the broccoli into small florets. Preheat your oven to 356°F (180°C).
2. Par-Cook the Vegetables: In a large pot, combine the sliced potatoes, broccoli florets, and dairy-free cream. Add a pinch of salt, pepper, and your chosen herbs (like thyme or rosemary). Bring to a gentle simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally, for about 10 minutes until the potatoes just begin to soften. Remove from heat.
3. Make the Vegan Cheese Sauce: In a separate saucepan, melt the vegan butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour to form a roux, cooking for 1-2 minutes. Gradually pour in the vegetable broth, whisking constantly until smooth and thickened. Remove from heat and stir in the nutritional yeast and any additional spices (garlic powder, paprika) to taste.
4. Assemble the Casserole: Lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish. Layer half of the potato and broccoli mixture into the dish. Pour half of the cheese sauce over it. Repeat with the remaining vegetables and sauce.
5. Bake: Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the potatoes are fully tender when pierced with a fork.
Serving Suggestions
This hearty casserole is a complete meal on its own. For a lighter option, serve it alongside a crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette. It also pairs wonderfully with crusty bread for soaking up the creamy sauce. For a protein boost, add a side of seasoned lentils or crispy baked tofu.
How-to Summary
Slice potatoes and broccoli, then simmer them briefly in seasoned dairy-free cream. Create a thick vegan cheese sauce by making a roux with vegan butter and flour, then whisking in vegetable broth and nutritional yeast. Layer the vegetables and sauce in a baking dish and bake covered for 30 minutes, then uncovered for 15-20 minutes until golden and bubbly.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this casserole ahead of time? Yes. Assemble the casserole completely, cover tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. You may need to add 5-10 minutes to the baking time.
What can I use instead of dairy-free cream? Unsweetened, unflavored plant-based milk (like soy or oat) mixed with a tablespoon of cornstarch can be a good substitute, though the result will be slightly less rich.
Can I freeze vegan potato broccoli casserole? It’s best enjoyed fresh. Freezing can cause the creamy sauce to separate and the vegetables to become mushy upon reheating.
My sauce is too thick. How can I fix it? Simply whisk in a little more vegetable broth or plant-based milk until you reach your desired consistency before assembling.
Is nutritional yeast essential? It provides a classic “cheesy” umami flavor. If you don’t have it, you can omit it, but consider adding a bit more salt or a splash of white miso paste for depth.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoid slicing the potatoes too thickly, as they may not cook through. Do not skip par-cooking the vegetables with the cream, as this infuses flavor and ensures even cooking. When making the roux for the sauce, whisk constantly to prevent lumps from forming. Finally, ensure the casserole is golden and bubbling before removing it from the oven to guarantee the potatoes are fully tender.
Conclusion
This Vegan Potato Broccoli Casserole proves that comfort food can be both indulgent and plant-based. With its creamy sauce, tender vegetables, and simple preparation, it’s a reliable dish that will satisfy everyone at the table. By following this guide and avoiding common pitfalls, you’ll create a delicious, crowd-pleasing centerpiece for any cozy meal.