When the weather cools and the holidays approach, there’s nothing more satisfying than a warm, bubbling dish of cheesy goodness straight from the oven. That’s where this Cheesy Broccoli Cauliflower Casserole comes in. It’s rich, creamy, comforting—and surprisingly low in carbs. Whether you’re serving it for a weeknight dinner, prepping meals for a keto diet, or adding a wholesome touch to your Thanksgiving spread, this casserole is the recipe you’ll reach for again and again.
This easy side dish blends nostalgia with health, transforming simple vegetables into something crave-worthy. With the classic flavors of a Pioneer Woman Broccoli Cauliflower Casserole, but tweaked for modern, low-carb lifestyles, it’s bound to become a staple in your home.
Let’s explore how this Broccoli Cauliflower Casserole with Cream of Mushroom Soup (easy!) can revolutionize your meal planning—while satisfying even the pickiest eaters.
What Is Cheesy Broccoli Cauliflower Casserole?
At its core, this dish is a blend of steamed broccoli and cauliflower, tossed in a cheesy, creamy sauce and baked until golden and bubbly. Think mac and cheese vibes—but made entirely from vegetables. Add in cream of mushroom soup for classic flavor and optional keto-friendly ingredients to align with your dietary needs.
Unlike many Cauliflower Casserole Recipes that rely on heavy starches or bread toppings, this recipe focuses on whole-food ingredients, fresh flavor, and a balance of textures. It can be served as a vegetarian main dish or a versatile side to roasted meats, especially around the holidays.
Key Features of This Recipe
- Low-carb and keto-adaptable: Using almond flour, pork rinds, and keto cream soups keeps this dish within your macros.
- Quick and simple prep: It comes together in under an hour, with minimal dishes.
- Perfect for meal prep: Make it ahead and enjoy leftovers throughout the week.
- Family-friendly: Even veggie skeptics enjoy this cheesy bake.
- Holiday-ready: An essential for your lineup of easy holiday side dishes.
Whether you’re building a Thanksgiving spread with Thanksgiving side dishes healthy enough for various diets or searching for a reliable weeknight winner, this casserole has you covered.
Ingredients Breakdown
Here’s a closer look at what you’ll need for this Cheesy Califlower Casserole (Keto-style):
Vegetables:
- 1 small head of broccoli, cut into bite-sized florets
- 1 small head of cauliflower, cut into florets
Fresh vegetables give the best flavor, but frozen can be used if well-drained.
Sauce Base:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil or butter
- 1/2 small onion, finely diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
- Use homemade or a keto-friendly store brand for fewer carbs.
- 1/2 cup sour cream (or Greek yogurt for added protein)
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Cheeses:
- 1 1/2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded (divided)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
These cheeses create a rich, tangy flavor that melts beautifully.
Optional Toppings:
- 1/3 cup crushed pork rinds or 2 tablespoons almond flour
- 1 tablespoon melted butter (to mix with topping)
This recipe shares the creamy appeal of Keto Chicken Broccoli Cheese Casserole Cauliflower Rice, but focuses on a plant-based twist for a satisfying side or vegetarian entrée.
How to Make It: Step-by-Step
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Set your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch casserole dish with butter or cooking spray.
Step 2: Steam or Blanch the Veggies
Boil or steam broccoli and cauliflower florets for 3–4 minutes, until just tender. Drain thoroughly. This prevents the final casserole from becoming watery.
Step 3: Prepare the Creamy Sauce
In a large skillet over medium heat:
- Sauté onions in olive oil or butter until translucent.
- Add garlic and cook for 1 more minute.
- Stir in the cream of mushroom soup, sour cream, mayo, 1 cup of cheddar cheese, Parmesan, and seasonings.
- Mix until smooth and heated through.
This step creates the classic creamy base found in Broccoli Cauliflower Casserole with Cream of Mushroom Soup easy recipes, but with better balance and flavor.
Step 4: Combine
Toss the steamed veggies in the cheese sauce. Mix until everything is evenly coated.
Step 5: Transfer and Top
Spread the mixture into the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle with the remaining 1/2 cup of cheddar cheese. Add your optional topping of pork rinds or almond flour mixed with melted butter.
Step 6: Bake
Bake for 25–30 minutes or until the top is golden brown and bubbly.
Step 7: Cool Slightly and Serve
Let the casserole rest for about 10 minutes. This allows the sauce to set and flavors to meld.
Keto Version and Additions
To transform this into a full Keto Chicken Broccoli Casserole Cauliflower Rice dinner:
- Add 1 1/2 cups cooked shredded chicken to the sauce before baking.
- Swap mayo and sour cream for full-fat Greek yogurt if preferred.
- Include 1 1/2 cups cauliflower rice to bulk up the dish further.
- Top with extra cheese and a sprinkle of paprika for color.
This variation transforms a simple side into a one-dish keto dinner.
Make-Ahead and Storage Tips
One of the best things about this dish? You can prepare it ahead of time, making it perfect for busy holiday schedules or weekday meal prep.
- Make Ahead: Assemble the casserole (without baking), cover tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours.
- Reheat: Bake uncovered from the fridge at 350°F for 35–40 minutes.
- Freeze: Wrap the unbaked casserole in foil and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before baking.
Pairing Suggestions
This versatile casserole complements all kinds of mains and spreads:
- Holiday mains: Roast turkey, glazed ham, garlic butter chicken
- Keto dinners: Grilled steak, salmon, rotisserie chicken
- Vegetarian meals: Serve with a chickpea salad or mushroom risotto
- Potluck favorite: Add it to a lineup of easy holiday side dishes
For festive flair, garnish with chopped parsley or green onions just before serving.
Why It’s Perfect for the Holidays
This casserole is everything a Thanksgiving side dish (healthy) should be: creamy, comforting, and crowd-pleasing—yet far more nourishing than many traditional options. It fits seamlessly into a festive menu while supporting various dietary needs like keto, low-carb, or gluten-free.
Here’s why it belongs at your holiday table:
- Balance out the heavy carbs: It’s a break from stuffing, mashed potatoes, and sweet potatoes.
- Make ahead ease: One less thing to worry about on the big day.
- Flavorful enough to compete: Its bold cheesy flavor won’t be overshadowed.
- Simple ingredients: You likely already have most of these on hand.
Try it once and it may just earn a permanent spot alongside the turkey!
Nutritional Profile (per serving estimate)
Based on 8 servings (without chicken):
- Calories: 260
- Fat: 22g
- Carbs: 6g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 10g
This makes it a shining example of cheesy cauliflower casseroles keto fans can enjoy while staying on track.
Reader Favorites and Testimonial Quotes
“I made this last Thanksgiving and it was the only dish that was completely gone before dessert. Even the kids devoured it!” — Laura, Ohio
“This was the perfect keto side dish! I added leftover rotisserie chicken and it became our weeknight dinner.” — Michael, Florida
“Tastes like mac and cheese but healthier! I love it with crushed pork rinds on top.” — Jess, New York
Top Tips for Success
- Use freshly shredded cheese: Pre-shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents that don’t melt as smoothly.
- Drain veggies well: Moisture is the enemy of a crisp, bubbly casserole.
- Taste the sauce: Adjust salt and pepper before baking.
- Add a pop of color: Chopped parsley or paprika makes it more festive.
Final Thoughts
When it comes to Broccoli Cauliflower Casserole that’s easy, cheesy, and health-conscious, this recipe is the best of all worlds. It marries classic comfort food with modern dietary needs—without sacrificing flavor. Whether you’re low-carb, keto, gluten-free, or just love cheesy vegetables, you’ll come back to this casserole again and again.
From Keto Chicken Broccoli Cheese Casserole Cauliflower Rice lovers to those just exploring cauliflower casserole recipes, this dish is one of those gems that’s as delicious as it is versatile. Try it once and watch it become a new favorite in your home, your holiday table, and even your weekday meal prep.
