Name: Cheesy Broccoli Cauliflower and Smoked Sausage Bake
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 3 cups cauliflower florets, lightly steamed; 2 cups broccoli florets, lightly steamed; 12 oz smoked turkey sausage, sliced; 2 tbsp butter; ½ onion, diced; 2 tsp minced garlic; 2 oz cream cheese, softened; ⅔ cup heavy whipping cream; 1½ cups shredded cheddar cheese; Salt and pepper, to taste

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If you’re looking for a dinner that hits every comfort food craving while still sneaking in a few veggies, this cheesy broccoli cauliflower and smoked sausage bake is about to become your new favorite. It’s creamy, savory, packed with flavor, and comes together in just one pan. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or meal prepping for the week, this bake delivers every time.

The real beauty of this dish is how effortlessly it blends smoky sausage, rich cheese sauce, and tender vegetables into a casserole that’s anything but boring. It’s low on carbs, big on flavor, and perfect for chilly evenings or when you just want something hearty and satisfying without much fuss.

Cheesy Broccoli Cauliflower and Smoked Sausage Bake

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe brings comfort food to the table without relying on heavy carbs. Instead, it uses a base of lightly steamed cauliflower and broccoli, which soak up all the cheesy, creamy goodness while still offering some texture and nutrients.

The smoked sausage adds a meaty, savory punch, while the cheese sauce brings all the richness you want in a bake. It’s a one-dish wonder that works as a weeknight meal, meal prep staple, or potluck favorite.

Plus, it’s naturally gluten-free and low-carb, making it a great option if you’re watching your intake but still want something indulgent.

Ingredients

tip: you can find a full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below

3 cups cauliflower florets, lightly steamed
2 cups broccoli florets, lightly steamed
12 oz sliced smoked turkey sausage
2 tablespoons butter
½ onion, diced
2 teaspoons minced garlic
2 oz cream cheese, softened
⅔ cup heavy whipping cream
1½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions

Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 350°F and grease a 9×9-inch baking dish.
Cook the sausage: In a skillet over medium-high heat, sauté the sliced smoked sausage until it’s seared and browned. Remove from heat and set aside.
Make the cheese sauce: In a separate pot, melt butter over medium heat. Add diced onions and sauté until softened, about 3–4 minutes. Stir in the garlic and cook for 30 seconds.
Add cream cheese: Stir in the softened cream cheese until it melts and blends into the onions.
Add the cream: Pour in the heavy whipping cream, whisking constantly to form a smooth sauce. Let it simmer over medium-low heat until thickened, about 5 minutes.
Stir in the cheese: Add shredded cheddar cheese to the sauce and stir until fully melted and smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Mix it all together: In a large mixing bowl, combine the steamed cauliflower, broccoli, and cooked sausage. Pour the cheese sauce over everything and stir to coat evenly.
Bake: Spread the mixture evenly into your prepared baking dish and bake for 15–20 minutes, or until bubbly and golden on top.

Variations

Spicy kick: Use andouille sausage or add red pepper flakes to the cheese sauce for a spicier version.
Extra veggies: Add mushrooms, zucchini, or spinach for more color and nutrients.
Different cheese: Swap in pepper jack, mozzarella, or gouda for a different flavor profile.
Low-fat version: Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream, and turkey sausage or chicken sausage for a lighter option.

Heating & Storage

To store: Let the casserole cool completely, then store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

To reheat: Warm individual portions in the microwave, or reheat in a 350°F oven until heated through (about 15 minutes).

To freeze: Freeze the baked casserole in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat in the oven until hot and bubbly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use fresh sausage instead of smoked?

Yes, but you’ll need to cook it through completely before adding it to the casserole.

Do I need to steam the veggies first?

Steaming helps them cook evenly and prevents them from being too crunchy in the final dish. You can also microwave them briefly as a shortcut.

Is this dish keto-friendly?

It is! With no added flour or starch and low-carb vegetables, this bake is a great fit for a keto diet.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the entire dish and refrigerate it before baking. Just add 5–10 extra minutes to the baking time if coming straight from the fridge.

What’s the best sausage to use?

Smoked turkey sausage works great, but any fully cooked smoked sausage will do—chicken, pork, or beef.

Can I make it vegetarian?

You can leave out the sausage and add more vegetables or a plant-based protein substitute like tofu or veggie sausage.

Can I use frozen vegetables?

Yes, but thaw and drain them first to avoid excess moisture in the casserole.

What cheese works best?

Cheddar is classic for its meltability and flavor, but feel free to experiment with blends or spicier cheeses.

Can I double the recipe?

Absolutely—just bake it in a 9×13-inch dish and extend the baking time by 5–10 minutes if needed.

Does this freeze well?

Yes, this casserole freezes beautifully. Just thaw and reheat for an easy make-ahead dinner.