Mediterranean Cheesy Broccoli and Cauliflower Bake
This dish brings together tender broccoli and cauliflower, smoky sausage, and a rich, cheesy sauce for a satisfying comfort meal with a Mediterranean twist. The addition of Dijon mustard and garlic gives it a bright, tangy depth, while cream cheese makes it extra creamy. It’s hearty enough to be a main dish but also works well as a side for gatherings or weeknight dinners.
Time:
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 25 minutes
Total time: 40 minutes
Ingredients
1 pound broccoli florets
1/2 pound cauliflower florets
1 tablespoon vegetable oil
1 small yellow onion, finely diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
12 ounces smoked sausage (Polish or andouille), sliced into 1-inch rounds
8 ounces cream cheese, room temperature, cut into cubes
1/2 cup mayonnaise (or plain yogurt / sour cream)
2 cups shredded Mexican blend cheese, divided
2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Instructions
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
Blanch vegetables
Bring a large pot of salted water to boil. Add broccoli and cauliflower florets and blanch for 2–3 minutes until slightly tender but still crisp. Drain and set aside.
Cook sausage & aromatics
In a large skillet, heat vegetable oil over medium heat. Add diced onion and sauté for 3–4 minutes until softened.
Stir in garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
Add sliced smoked sausage and cook for 4–5 minutes, letting it brown slightly.
Make the creamy cheese mixture
Reduce heat to low. Add cream cheese cubes, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, and 1½ cups of the shredded cheese. Stir until melted and smooth. Season with salt and pepper.
Combine and assemble
Add the blanched broccoli and cauliflower to the skillet, tossing to coat everything in the cheese sauce.
Transfer the mixture into the prepared baking dish.
Top and bake
Sprinkle the remaining ½ cup shredded cheese evenly over the top.
Bake for 15–20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Serve
Let cool for 5 minutes before serving. Enjoy warm as a main dish or a hearty side.
Tips
Cut even florets so broccoli and cauliflower cook evenly.
Room temperature cream cheese melts more smoothly into the sauce.
Taste before adding salt — smoked sausage and cheese can be quite salty already.
Pre-shredded cheese saves time, but freshly grated cheese melts creamier.
Make ahead by preparing the dish up to the baking step, then refrigerating for up to 24 hours before baking.
Variations
Vegetarian version: Skip the sausage and add roasted red peppers, sun-dried tomatoes, or marinated artichokes for flavor.
Herb boost: Add oregano, thyme, or rosemary for extra Mediterranean notes.
Lighter option: Swap mayonnaise for plain Greek yogurt and use reduced-fat cream cheese.
Spicy twist: Use spicy andouille sausage or add a pinch of red pepper flakes.
Extra crunch: Sprinkle with breadcrumbs or crushed pita chips before baking.
Different cheese: Replace Mexican blend with mozzarella, provolone, or a mix of feta and mozzarella for a stronger Mediterranean profile.
Q&A
Q: Can I make this dish ahead of time?
A: Yes, prepare the bake up to the point of adding the top cheese layer, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Bake just before serving.
Q: Can I freeze leftovers?
A: Yes, store leftovers in an airtight container and freeze for up to 2 months. Reheat gently in the oven.
Q: Can I use fresh herbs instead of dried?
A: Absolutely. Use about 1 tablespoon fresh herbs like oregano or thyme in place of dried. Add them when cooking the sausage and onions.
Q: How can I make this dairy-free?
A: Substitute cream cheese with a dairy-free alternative and use a vegan cheese blend.
Q: What side dishes pair well with this bake?
A: Serve with a fresh green salad, Mediterranean quinoa, or roasted root vegetables.
Nutrition Facts
(per serving, based on 6 servings)
Calories: ~420
Protein: 22g
Carbohydrates: 10g
Fat: 32g
Saturated Fat: 14g
Fiber: 4g
Sugar: 4g
Sodium: ~850mg
(Nutrition values may vary based on sausage type and cheese brand.)
Conclusion
This Mediterranean Cheesy Broccoli and Cauliflower Bake is a flavorful, comforting dish that combines creamy cheese sauce with tender veggies and smoky sausage. It’s easy to prepare and perfect for family dinners or entertaining guests. With the option to customize herbs, spice levels, and protein, it fits well into Mediterranean-inspired meal plans without sacrificing taste or richness.