Creamy Vegan Broccoli Wild Rice Casserole 🌿🥦

This wholesome and comforting dish is perfect for cozy family dinners or meal prep for the week! Packed with vibrant broccoli, hearty wild rice, and a creamy vegan sauce, this casserole is a delightful way to sneak in some veggies. It’s not only delicious but also nourishing, making it a hit for vegans and non-vegans alike! Consider pairing it with a green salad or crusty whole grain bread for a complete meal. 🥗🍞

Ingredients

For the Casserole

• 1 cup wild rice (uncooked)
• 2 cups broccoli florets (fresh or frozen)
• 1 cup diced carrots
• 1 cup finely chopped onions
• 2 cloves garlic (minced)
• 1 cup vegetable broth
• 1 cup unsweetened plant-based milk (such as almond, oat, or soy)
• 2 tablespoons nutritional yeast
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 cup breadcrumbs (for topping)
• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice (optional)

For the Creamy Sauce

• 1/4 cup cashews (soaked for 2-4 hours; optional for creaminess)
• 1 tablespoon tahini
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

2. Cook the Wild Rice: Rinse the wild rice under cold water. In a medium pot, combine the wild rice and 2 ½ cups of water or vegetable broth. Bring to a boil, then cover and reduce to a simmer for about 45 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the water is absorbed.

3. Sauté the Vegetables: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onions and cook until they become translucent (about 5 minutes). Stir in the garlic, carrots, and broccoli, and cook for another 4-5 minutes, until tender.

4. Blend the Sauce: In a blender, combine soaked cashews, tahini, lemon juice, nutritional yeast, thyme, paprika, salt, and pepper. Add the plant-based milk gradually until smooth and creamy. (Add more milk if needed to achieve your desired consistency.)

5. Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the cooked wild rice, sautéed vegetables, creamy sauce, onion powder, garlic powder, and lemon juice (if using). Stir well to combine everything evenly.

6. Prepare for Baking: Transfer the mixture to a greased 9x13 inch baking dish. Smooth the top with a spatula and sprinkle breadcrumbs evenly over the casserole.

7. Bake: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, until the top is golden brown and bubbly.

8. Serve and Enjoy: Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy it as a hearty main dish or a delightful side!

🍽️ Feel free to customize the veggies based on what you have on hand! Spinach, peas, or even mushrooms can make wonderful additions to this recipe.

Variations

• Gluten-free: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs and ensure your vegetable broth is certified gluten-free.
• Cheesy flair: Stir in some vegan cheese before baking for an extra cheesy and gooey texture!
• Protein boost: Add chickpeas or black beans to the mix for added protein.
• Spicy kick: Incorporate a dash of red pepper flakes or a teaspoon of sriracha for some heat.

This Creamy Vegan Broccoli Wild Rice Casserole is not just a dish—it’s a meal you can feel great about enjoying! 🌱✨