This Cheesy Vegan Broccoli Rice Casserole is a creamy, comforting dish that’s both satisfying and healthy! It’s made with a simple, homemade, dairy-free cheese sauce and packed with nutritious broccoli and rice. Plus, it’s completely oil-free, making it a lightened-up version of a traditional casserole. This dish is perfect for a cozy dinner, a potluck, or a make-ahead meal. The cheesy, savory flavor will delight even the most skeptical taste buds!

Cheesy Vegan Broccoli Rice Casserole Recipe

Ingredients:

  • For the casserole:
    • 2 cups cooked brown rice (or white rice, quinoa, or cauliflower rice for a lower-carb version)
    • 3 cups broccoli florets (steamed or blanched)
    • 1/2 cup chopped onion (optional)
    • 1/4 cup nutritional yeast (for a cheesy flavor)
    • 1/4 tsp garlic powder
    • 1/4 tsp onion powder
    • 1/2 tsp smoked paprika (optional)
    • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • For the vegan cheese sauce:
    • 1 cup unsweetened almond milk (or any plant-based milk of your choice)
    • 1/4 cup raw cashews (soaked for at least 4 hours or use cashew butter)
    • 1 medium carrot, peeled and chopped
    • 1/4 cup nutritional yeast
    • 1 tbsp lemon juice
    • 1 tsp Dijon mustard
    • 1/2 tsp garlic powder
    • 1/2 tsp turmeric (optional, for color)
    • 1/4 tsp ground white pepper (optional)
    • Salt, to taste

Instructions:

  1. Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a casserole dish with cooking spray or line it with parchment paper.
  2. Prepare the vegan cheese sauce: In a blender, combine the almond milk, soaked cashews, chopped carrot, nutritional yeast, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, turmeric, white pepper, and salt. Blend until smooth and creamy. You can adjust the consistency of the sauce by adding more plant-based milk if it’s too thick. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
  3. Prepare the casserole ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked rice, steamed broccoli florets, chopped onion (if using), garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix until the rice and broccoli are evenly coated with the spices.
  4. Combine the sauce and rice mixture: Pour the creamy vegan cheese sauce over the rice and broccoli mixture and stir gently to combine.
  5. Assemble the casserole: Transfer the rice, broccoli, and cheese mixture into the prepared casserole dish. Use a spatula to spread it out evenly.
  6. Bake the casserole: Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and golden on top. You can add a sprinkle of additional nutritional yeast for extra cheesiness during the last 5 minutes of baking if you like.
  7. Serve: Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving. This dish pairs beautifully with a fresh green salad or as a side to other main dishes.

Nutrition (per serving, makes 6 servings):

  • Calories: 190
  • Protein: 6g
  • Fat: 5g
  • Carbs: 30g
  • Fiber: 4g
  • Sugar: 4g
  • WW Points: 5 (based on the current Weight Watchers points system)

Tips:

  • Make it spicier: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce to the cheese sauce for a little heat.
  • Add extra veggies: You can mix in some peas, carrots, or corn to increase the vegetable content and add color.
  • Make ahead: This casserole stores well in the fridge for up to 3 days, and it can be reheated in the oven or microwave. It also freezes well for up to 1-2 months—just thaw it in the fridge overnight before reheating.
  • Lighter sauce: If you prefer a lighter sauce, you can use silken tofu instead of cashews. Just blend it with the almond milk and nutritional yeast for a creamy, dairy-free sauce.

This Cheesy Vegan Broccoli Rice Casserole is a creamy, wholesome dish that’s packed with flavor and completely free from oils and dairy.