Easy Vegan Broccoli Potato Bake

Easy Vegan Broccoli Potato Bake

INTRODUCTION:

This Easy Vegan Broccoli Potato Bake is the perfect comfort food for any time of the year! With layers of tender potatoes, fresh broccoli, and a creamy, dairy-free sauce, it’s hearty, satisfying, and completely plant-based. This dish is simple to make, yet packed with flavor and nutrition. It’s a great addition to any vegan or vegetarian meal plan!

INGREDIENTS:

• 4 large potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
• 2 cups broccoli florets (fresh or frozen)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 cup unsweetened plant-based milk (almond, soy, oat)
• 1 tablespoon flour (or gluten-free flour for a GF option)
• 1/4 cup nutritional yeast (for a cheesy flavor)
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/2 cup dairy-free shredded cheese (optional, for topping)

INSTRUCTIONS:

1. Preheat the oven:
   Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a baking dish with olive oil or non-stick spray.
2. Prepare the potatoes:
   Peel and thinly slice the potatoes into rounds. Set aside.
3. Blanch the broccoli:
   If using fresh broccoli, steam or blanch it for 3-4 minutes until it is just tender, then drain and set aside.
4. Make the sauce:
   In a medium saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, and sauté until softened, about 5 minutes.
   Stir in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes, then slowly whisk in the plant-based milk.
   Continue to cook, whisking constantly, until the sauce thickens, about 5 minutes.
   Stir in the nutritional yeast, dried thyme, salt, and pepper.
5. Assemble the bake:
   Layer the bottom of the prepared baking dish with a portion of the sliced potatoes. Add a layer of broccoli florets on top.
   Pour half of the creamy sauce over the layers. Repeat the layers with the remaining potatoes, broccoli, and sauce.
6. Top with cheese (optional):
   If using, sprinkle the dairy-free shredded cheese on top of the bake.
7. Bake:
   Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork.
   Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes to allow the top to brown.
8. Serve:
   Let the bake cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh herbs if desired.

Enjoy your delicious and comforting Vegan Broccoli Potato Bake!