This Carrot, Zucchini, and Potato Casserole is a hearty, healthy, and colorful dish that combines fresh vegetables with a creamy, cheesy sauce. Perfect as a side dish or a vegetarian main course, it’s packed with flavor and nutrients.
Preparation Time
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cooking Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
Ingredients
- 3 medium carrots, peeled and sliced
- 2 medium zucchinis, sliced
- 4 medium potatoes, peeled and sliced
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 cup (240ml) heavy cream or milk (for a lighter option)
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup (100g) shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup (50g) grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme or Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika (optional)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon butter (for greasing)
Directions
Prepare the Vegetables:
- Preheat the oven to 190°C (375°F).
- Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter.
- Boil the sliced potatoes and carrots for 5–7 minutes until slightly tender. Drain and set aside.
Sauté the Onion and Garlic:
- Heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat.
- Add chopped onion and garlic, and sauté until fragrant and translucent.
Prepare the Cream Mixture:
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, cream or milk, thyme or Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and black pepper.
Assemble the Casserole:
- Layer the potatoes, carrots, and zucchini in the prepared baking dish.
- Spread the sautéed onion and garlic evenly over the vegetables.
- Pour the cream mixture over the layered vegetables.
- Sprinkle shredded mozzarella and Parmesan cheese on top.
Bake:
- Cover the dish with foil and bake for 25 minutes.
- Remove the foil and bake for another 15 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbly.
Serve:
- Let the casserole cool for 5 minutes before slicing. Serve warm as a side dish or a vegetarian main course.
5 Serving Suggestions
- Pair with a fresh green salad for a balanced meal.
- Serve alongside grilled chicken or fish for added protein.
- Add a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt on top for extra creaminess.
- Garnish with fresh parsley or chives for color and flavor.
- Serve with crusty bread to soak up the creamy sauce.
Cooking Tips
- Use a mandoline slicer for uniform vegetable slices.
- Add a pinch of nutmeg to the cream mixture for warmth and depth.
- Substitute mozzarella with Gruyère or Swiss cheese for a richer flavor.
- Make it gluten-free by ensuring the Parmesan is free of fillers.
Nutritional Benefits
- Carrots: High in beta-carotene and antioxidants.
- Zucchini: Low in calories, rich in vitamins A and C.
- Potatoes: Great source of potassium and energy.
Dietary Information
- Vegetarian-friendly.
- Gluten-free.
Nutritional Facts (Per Serving – Serves 6)
- Calories: 220
- Protein: 8 g
- Carbohydrates: 25 g
- Fat: 10 g
- Fiber: 4 g
- Sugar: 4 g
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Simple, wholesome ingredients.
- Creamy, cheesy, and packed with vegetables.
- Perfect for meal prep or family dinners.
- Easy to customize with your favorite spices or add-ins.
Conclusion
This Carrot, Zucchini, and Potato Casserole is a comforting, nutritious dish that’s both versatile and crowd-pleasing. With its creamy texture and vibrant vegetables, it’s sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I make it vegan? Yes, use plant-based milk, vegan cheese, and a flax egg substitute.
- How do I store leftovers? Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Can I freeze this casserole? Yes, freeze after baking. Thaw and reheat in the oven.
- What other vegetables can I add? Bell peppers, spinach, or broccoli work well.
- Can I use sweet potatoes instead of regular potatoes? Yes, for a sweeter flavor.
- How do I prevent the casserole from being watery? Drain boiled vegetables thoroughly before layering.
- What herbs work best? Thyme, rosemary, or parsley complement the flavors.
- Can I make this ahead of time? Yes, assemble and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.
- What cheese works best? Mozzarella, cheddar, or a mix of cheeses for variety.
- Is this suitable for kids? Absolutely! The creamy, cheesy flavor is kid-approved.