Ingredients
Scale
- 4 cups broccoli florets, bite-sized
- 4 cups cauliflower florets, bite-sized
- 2 cups sliced carrots
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 1/2 cups whole milk
- 3 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 1/2 cups crushed Ritz crackers or breadcrumbs
- 3 tablespoons butter, melted (for topping)
Instructions
- Blanch the Vegetables: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the broccoli, cauliflower, and carrots. Boil for 3 to 4 minutes until they are slightly tender but still crisp. Immediately drain the vegetables and plunge them into a bowl of ice water to stop the cooking process. Drain thoroughly again and pat dry with paper towels. This prevents the casserole from becoming watery.
- Prepare the Cheesy Sauce: In a medium saucepan, melt 1/4 cup of butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1 minute to remove the raw flour taste. Gradually pour in the milk, whisking constantly to prevent lumps. Continue cooking and whisking until the sauce thickens and bubbles. Remove from heat and stir in 2 cups of the shredded cheddar cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper until the cheese melts into a smooth sauce.
- Assemble the Casserole: Grease a large 9×13 inch baking dish. Place the blanched vegetables into the dish and spread them evenly. Pour the cheese sauce over the vegetables and toss gently to ensure everything is coated. Sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of cheese over the top. If making ahead, cover the dish tightly with foil or plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to 24 hours.
- Add Topping and Bake: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a small bowl, mix the crushed crackers with the 3 tablespoons of melted butter. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the casserole. Bake for 30 to 35 minutes (add 5-10 minutes if the dish is cold from the fridge) until the sauce is bubbly and the cracker topping is a beautiful golden brown. Let it rest for 5 minutes before serving.
- Cook Time: 60 minutes