Cheesy Baked Vegetable Casserole

Cheesy Baked Vegetable Casserole: A Wholesome and Colorful Delight”

Introduction

There’s nothing quite as satisfying as a dish that is both healthy and indulgent.

This Cheesy Baked Vegetable Casserole combines the vibrant flavors of fresh vegetables with the creamy richness of cheese, creating a dish that’s as visually appealing as it is delicious.

Whether you’re looking for a hearty side dish, a vegetarian main course, or a way to encourage your family to eat more vegetables, this recipe is the answer.

The beauty of this casserole lies in its versatility.

You can use your favorite combination of vegetables, adjust the seasoning to suit your taste, and even experiment with different cheeses for a unique flavor profile.

It’s perfect for potlucks, family dinners, or meal prep, as it reheats beautifully. Follow this step-by-step guide to make a cheesy vegetable casserole that everyone will love.

Ingredients

For the Vegetables:

2 cups broccoli florets

2 cups cauliflower florets

1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

1 yellow bell pepper, sliced

1 red bell pepper, sliced

1 cup carrots, sliced thinly

For the Creamy Sauce:

2 cups heavy cream

½ cup whole milk

2 garlic cloves, minced

1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning

½ teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional)

Salt and black pepper to taste

½ cup grated Parmesan cheese

For the Topping:

1½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese

½ cup shredded cheddar cheese

2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Vegetables:
   1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
   2. Wash and prepare all the vegetables by cutting them into bite-sized pieces. Spread the vegetables evenly in the prepared baking dish.
2. Make the Creamy Sauce:
   1. In a medium saucepan, combine the heavy cream, milk, and minced garlic. Heat over medium-low heat until the mixture is warm but not boiling.
   2. Stir in the dried Italian seasoning, nutmeg (if using), salt, and pepper. Simmer for 2–3 minutes, stirring occasionally, to allow the flavors to meld.
   3. Remove the saucepan from heat and whisk in the grated Parmesan cheese until smooth and creamy.
3. Assemble the Casserole:
   1. Pour the creamy sauce evenly over the vegetables in the baking dish, ensuring all the veggies are coated.
   2. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella and cheddar cheese evenly over the top.
4. Bake the Casserole:
   1. Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes.
   2. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15–20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden brown.
5. Garnish and Serve:
   1. Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for 5 minutes.
   2. Garnish with fresh parsley for added color and flavor, if desired.
   3. Serve hot as a main dish or a side dish.

Conclusion

This Cheesy Baked Vegetable Casserole is proof that eating your vegetables can be a delightful experience.

The creamy sauce enhances the natural flavors of the vegetables, while the golden, bubbly cheese topping adds a layer of indulgence that makes every bite irresistible.

The recipe is easily customizable—swap out vegetables based on what you have on hand or add a protein like shredded chicken or crumbled bacon for a heartier dish.

It’s a fantastic way to make vegetables the star of your meal while satisfying even the pickiest eaters.

Whether served fresh out of the oven or reheated as leftovers, this casserole is guaranteed to bring comfort and joy to your table.

Try it today, and enjoy a burst of flavor and color in every bite!