As I prepared for another busy week, the thought of a comforting meal became my beacon of hope. Enter the Creamy Vegan Cheesy Broccoli and Rice Casserole—my go-to for those nights when I crave something warm and satisfying without the fuss. This dish marries tender broccoli with a rich, velvety cheese sauce crafted entirely from wholesome vegetables, making it not just vegan but also gluten-free. What’s even better? It’s quick to whip up, perfect for a weeknight dinner when time is tight, and the leftovers keep well—ideal for lunch the next day! So, are you ready to experience the cozy embrace of nostalgia with a modern twist? Let’s dive into this deliciously wholesome recipe!
Why will you love this casserole?
Comforting, this Creamy Vegan Cheesy Broccoli and Rice Casserole is like a warm hug on a plate! Nutritious, loaded with wholesome ingredients, it’s a guilt-free indulgence that keeps you feeling satisfied. Versatile, you can easily adapt the cheese sauce for different dishes by adding spices or extra veggies. Time-saving, it can be whipped up in just one pot, making cleanup a breeze. Crowd-pleaser, it’s an ideal dish for both family dinners and gatherings, sure to impress even the non-vegans! Enjoy a slice of nostalgia with a twist, and don’t forget to pair it with a fresh side like a simple green salad for a complete meal.
Vegan Cheesy Broccoli and Rice Ingredients
• Get ready to whip up a wholesome, plant-based delight!
For the Casserole
- Brown Rice – A hearty base that provides structure; you can substitute with white rice or quinoa for variety.
- Broccoli – Packed with nutrients and a vibrant green color; cut it into similar-sized florets to ensure even cooking.
- Onion – Adds aromatic depth to the dish; shallots can be used for a sweeter, milder flavor.
- Potatoes – Key for that creamy cheese texture; Yukon Gold potatoes are ideal, or opt for cauliflower for a lower-carb option.
- Carrots – Introduces sweetness and additional color; feel free to omit if you don’t have any on hand.
- Cashews – Essential for creaminess in the cheese sauce; use silken tofu for a nut-free alternative.
- Garlic – Elevates the flavor; select fresh cloves or powdered based on your preference.
- Dijon Mustard – Infuses a tangy kick into the sauce; yellow mustard works just as well if needed.
- Nutritional Yeast – Provides that sought-after cheesy flavor while also being nutrient-dense; you can skip it if you must, but it really brings the sauce to life.
- Black Pepper & Salt – Necessary for seasoning; adjust to taste for a perfectly balanced dish.
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Vegan Cheesy Broccoli and Rice
Step 1: Cook the Rice
In a wide, lidded saucepan, bring 4 cups of water to a boil and add 2 cups of brown rice. Cook according to package directions, usually around 40-45 minutes, until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed. Once done, fluff the rice with a fork and set it aside, allowing it to cool slightly while you prepare the rest of the dish.
Step 2: Prepare the Vegetables
Fill a large pot with water and bring it to a rolling boil. Add chopped onion, diced potatoes, and carrots, then let them simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the vegetables are fork-tender. Keep an eye on them and stir occasionally to ensure even cooking, then drain and set aside, ready for blending into a smooth cheese sauce for the Vegan Cheesy Broccoli and Rice Casserole.
Step 3: Blend the Cheese Sauce
In a blender, combine the drained vegetables with 1 cup of cooking water, 1 cup of soaked cashews, minced garlic, Dijon mustard, nutritional yeast, and a pinch of black pepper. Blend until creamy and completely smooth, about 1-2 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the sauce has a velvety texture, perfect for draping over your casserole.
Step 4: Combine All Ingredients
In a large skillet over medium heat, add the cooked brown rice and freshly chopped broccoli florets. Pour the blended cheese sauce over the mixture, stirring gently until everything is well combined. Cook for about 5 minutes, or until the broccoli turns bright green and slightly tender, ensuring every grain of rice is coated with that luscious vegan cheese sauce.
Step 5: Serve
Turn off the heat and transfer the creamy Vegan Cheesy Broccoli and Rice Casserole to a serving dish, or serve straight from the skillet. You can add a sprinkle of black pepper on top for a touch of spice and color. This dish is best enjoyed warm, either by itself or alongside a simple green salad for a lovely, balanced meal.
Make Ahead Options
These Creamy Vegan Cheesy Broccoli and Rice Casserole components are perfect for meal prep, saving you time during a busy week! You can prepare the cheese sauce (the blended mixture of vegetables, cashews, and seasonings) up to 3 days in advance and store it in an airtight container in the fridge. Additionally, the cooked brown rice can be prepped and kept for up to 5 days; just make sure to refrigerate it in a separate container to maintain its texture. When you’re ready to serve, simply heat the cheese sauce in a saucepan, combine it with the rice and chopped broccoli, and warm everything together for delicious results that are just as comforting as if made fresh!
What to Serve with Creamy Vegan Cheesy Broccoli and Rice Casserole
This delightful dish shines on its own, but pairing it with complementary sides elevates your meal to new heights.
- Garlic Bread: The buttery aroma of crusty garlic bread contrasts beautifully with the creamy casserole, making each bite irresistible.
- Simple Green Salad: A fresh mix of greens topped with a light vinaigrette provides a crisp, refreshing contrast to the rich textures of the casserole.
- Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Their natural earthiness and slightly crispy exterior harmonize with the casserole’s layers of flavor. Tossed in olive oil, they make a delightful side.
- Quinoa Tabbouleh: This zesty salad, bursting with parsley and lemon, adds brightness and a chewy texture that balances the creaminess of the dish perfectly.
- Steamed Asparagus: Bright green, tender-crisp asparagus lightly seasoned with salt and lemon provides a delicate freshness that complements the rich flavors of the casserole.
- Chilled Sparkling Water: Adding a splash of citrus to your sparkling water can cleanse the palate beautifully between bites, enhancing the comforting experience of the meal.
- Vegan Chocolate Mousse: Finish your meal with a light, airy chocolate mousse; its velvety texture mirrors the cheese sauce and leaves everyone satisfied but not overly full.
How to Store and Freeze Vegan Cheesy Broccoli and Rice
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Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven until heated through, adding a splash of water if needed to prevent drying out.
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Freezer: For longer-term storage, you can freeze the casserole for up to 3 months. Portion it into individual servings, wrap well, and place in freezer-safe containers.
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Thawing: When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat thoroughly in the oven or microwave for a quick meal.
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Reheating: Ensure the casserole is piping hot throughout before serving. Stir in a little water or non-dairy milk to maintain creaminess, especially after freezing!
Vegan Cheesy Broccoli and Rice Variations
Feel free to personalize your dish and explore delightful twists that cater to your family’s taste buds!
- Quinoa Base: Swap brown rice for quinoa for a protein-packed option that adds a nutty flavor.
- Extra Veggies: Add in spinach or bell peppers for a vibrant pop of color and nutrients that boost health benefits!
- Creamy Cauliflower: Replace potatoes with blended cauliflower for a super creamy sauce with fewer carbs.
- Nut-Free Substitute: Use silken tofu instead of cashews for a smooth vegan cheese sauce—perfect for nut allergies!
- Baked Twist: After combining, transfer the casserole to a baking dish, sprinkle with breadcrumbs, and bake until golden for a crispy crust.
- Spice It Up: Mix in a teaspoon of smoked paprika or cayenne pepper for a delightful kick of heat.
- Herb Infusion: Enhance the flavor with fresh herbs like basil or thyme, which can add enticing aromas and freshness.
- Serve with a Salad: Pair with a zesty side salad, such as my refreshing Cheesy Green Chile dish, for a balanced meal that’s bursting with flavor.
Explore, enjoy, and make this casserole uniquely yours!
Expert Tips for Vegan Cheesy Broccoli and Rice
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Soften for Smoothness: Ensure the potatoes and other vegetables are very soft before blending; this guarantees a creamy consistency for your vegan cheese sauce.
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Cashew Secrets: Soak your cashews in water for at least 2 hours before blending. This step is crucial for achieving that rich, velvety smoothness in your cheese sauce.
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Rice Alternatives: If you don’t have brown rice on hand, feel free to swap it out for white rice or quinoa, both giving a delightful texture and adapting the Vegan Cheesy Broccoli and Rice casserole to your pantry.
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Seasoning Matters: Don’t forget to taste and adjust the salt and black pepper to your liking; season the dish well to really enhance those flavors.
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Versatile Veggies: Experiment with adding different vegetables like bell peppers or spinach for extra nutrition and varying flavors, making each casserole uniquely your own.
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Storing Leftovers: This dish stores well in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days or can be frozen for up to 3 months—perfect for meal prep!
Vegan Cheesy Broccoli and Rice Casserole Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the best broccoli for this casserole?
Absolutely! When selecting broccoli, look for vibrant green florets with tightly closed heads. Avoid any that show yellowing or dark spots. Fresh broccoli will give your casserole that delightful crunch and color.
How should I store leftovers of the casserole?
Very! Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Just remember to reheat it gently in the microwave or oven—adding a splash of water can help maintain its creaminess!
Can I freeze the Vegan Cheesy Broccoli and Rice Casserole?
Of course! You can freeze this casserole for up to 3 months. I recommend portioning it into individual servings, wrapping them tightly, and placing them in freezer-safe containers. When ready to enjoy, just thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat thoroughly!
What if my cheese sauce isn’t smooth enough?
No worries! If your sauce is too chunky, simply return it to the blender and add a bit of water to loosen it up. Blend again until it reaches that velvety, creamy consistency. Ensuring your vegetables are very soft before blending is key, so don’t rush that step!
Is this recipe suitable for people with nut allergies?
Certainly! If you’re dealing with nut allergies, you can substitute the cashews with silken tofu for a nut-free version. The texture will still be creamy, and I often make this adjustment for friends with dietary restrictions—just blend it well, and you’re good to go!
How long does it take to prepare the casserole?
Making this Vegan Cheesy Broccoli and Rice Casserole typically takes about 1 hour. Cooking the rice and prepping the veggies is about half of that time, while blending and combining everything adds another 20-30 minutes. It’s a comforting dish that’s worth every minute!
Creamy Vegan Cheesy Broccoli and Rice for Ultimate Comfort
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a wide, lidded saucepan, bring 4 cups of water to a boil and add 2 cups of brown rice. Cook according to package directions, usually around 40-45 minutes, until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed. Once done, fluff the rice with a fork and set it aside.
- Fill a large pot with water and bring it to a rolling boil. Add chopped onion, diced potatoes, and carrots, then let them simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the vegetables are fork-tender. Drain and set aside for blending into a smooth cheese sauce.
- In a blender, combine the drained vegetables with 1 cup of cooking water, 1 cup of soaked cashews, minced garlic, Dijon mustard, nutritional yeast, and a pinch of black pepper. Blend until creamy and completely smooth, about 1-2 minutes.
- In a large skillet over medium heat, add the cooked brown rice and freshly chopped broccoli florets. Pour the blended cheese sauce over the mixture, stirring gently until well combined. Cook for about 5 minutes, or until the broccoli turns bright green.
- Turn off the heat and transfer the casserole to a serving dish or serve straight from the skillet. Add a sprinkle of black pepper on top before serving.
