When it comes to comfort food, casseroles hold a special place in the hearts of home cooks everywhere. They are versatile, hearty, and have a wonderful way of bringing people together around the table. This Cheesy Vegetable Casserole, featuring the nutritious goodness of broccoli, cauliflower, and a medley of colorful vegetables, is a delightful dish that checks all the boxes for a wholesome and satisfying meal.
What makes this casserole truly timeless is its adaptability. Whether you’re serving it as a main dish for a family dinner, a side for a festive occasion, or a potluck contribution, this recipe never fails to impress. The combination of tender vegetables baked in a creamy egg and milk mixture, topped with golden, melted cheese, creates a comforting symphony of flavors and textures that appeals to everyone.
In addition to being delicious, this casserole is packed with nutrients. Broccoli and cauliflower, the stars of the dish, are rich in vitamins C and K, fiber, and antioxidants, making this a meal you can feel good about serving to your loved ones.
Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner, this recipe is easy to follow and highly customizable, allowing you to add your personal touch with spices, herbs, or additional ingredients. Let’s dive into the details and discover how to make this irresistible cheesy vegetable casserole!
Full Recipe:
Ingredients
Vegetables:
- Broccoli: 1 head (approx. 500 g)
- Cauliflower: 1 head (approx. 500 g)
- Bell pepper: 1 (any color, diced)
- Tomato: 1 (chopped)
- Onion: 1 (finely diced)
Wet Ingredients:
- Eggs: 4 large
- Milk: 400 ml
- Vegetable oil: 70 ml
Dry Ingredients and Seasonings:
- All-purpose flour: 150 g
- Salt: 1 teaspoon
- Pepper: To taste
Cheese:
- Cheddar cheese: 120 g (shredded)
Preparation Time and Cooking Time
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cooking Time: 50 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
Servings and Nutritional Information
- Servings: 6-8
- Calories per Serving: Approx. 250 kcal
Estimated Nutritional Values (Per Serving):
- Protein: 12g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fat: 16g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 5g
Steps to Make Cheesy Vegetable Casserole
Step 1: Prepare the Vegetables
- Wash the broccoli and cauliflower thoroughly under running water.
- Cut both into small florets, discarding the tough stems.
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the broccoli and cauliflower florets and blanch them for 3-4 minutes. This helps soften the vegetables slightly and brings out their vibrant colors. Drain and set aside.
- Dice the bell pepper, chop the tomato, and finely dice the onion.
Step 2: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 180°C (356°F). Lightly grease a large baking dish with vegetable oil to prevent sticking.
Step 3: Prepare the Batter
- In a mixing bowl, whisk the eggs until smooth. Add the milk, vegetable oil, salt, and pepper. Mix well to combine.
- Gradually add the flour while whisking to ensure there are no lumps. The batter should be smooth and slightly thick.
Step 4: Assemble the Casserole
- Arrange the blanched broccoli and cauliflower florets in the greased baking dish. Distribute the diced bell pepper, chopped tomato, and onion evenly among the florets.
- Pour the prepared batter over the vegetables, ensuring that it spreads evenly and coats everything.
- Sprinkle the shredded cheese over the top, creating a generous layer that will melt and form a golden crust during baking.
Step 5: Bake the Casserole
- Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 50 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the center is set.
- To check doneness, insert a toothpick into the center; if it comes out clean, the casserole is ready.
- Remove from the oven and let it cool for 5-10 minutes before serving.
Why This Recipe is Timeless
This Cheesy Vegetable Casserole is a classic for many reasons. First, its ingredients are readily available and affordable, making it an accessible dish for families of all sizes. Its balance of flavors, from the creamy egg-milk mixture to the cheesy topping, is universally loved.
Additionally, the recipe’s nutritional profile makes it a great way to incorporate more vegetables into your diet. Broccoli and cauliflower are superfoods, and this dish is an excellent way to present them in a delicious and appealing way.
The versatility of this casserole also contributes to its timelessness. It pairs wonderfully with meats, salads, or grains, making it suitable for any meal. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to use up vegetables you have on hand, reducing food waste.
Tips for Success
- Use Fresh Vegetables: Fresh broccoli and cauliflower yield the best flavor and texture.
- Don’t Over-Blanch: Keep the vegetables slightly firm during blanching to avoid sogginess after baking.
- Experiment with Cheese: Feel free to mix cheeses like mozzarella, parmesan, or gouda for a unique flavor profile.
- Spice It Up: Add a pinch of nutmeg, paprika, or Italian seasoning to the batter for an extra layer of flavor.
Storage Tips
Room Temperature:
If served within a few hours, cover the casserole with foil to keep it warm.
Refrigeration:
Transfer leftovers to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 4 days. Reheat portions in the oven or microwave before serving.
Freezing:
For longer storage, cut the casserole into individual portions, wrap each in plastic wrap, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen vegetables?
Yes, frozen broccoli and cauliflower work well. Just ensure they are thawed and patted dry to avoid excess moisture in the casserole.
Can I make this dish gluten-free?
Absolutely! Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend or almond flour.
What other vegetables can I add?
Zucchini, mushrooms, carrots, or green beans are excellent additions. Be sure to adjust the blanching or sautéing time to ensure even cooking.
Can I prepare this casserole ahead of time?
Yes! Assemble the casserole up to a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Bake just before serving.
Conclusion
The Cheesy Vegetable Casserole with Broccoli and Cauliflower is more than just a dish; it’s a celebration of flavor, nutrition, and the joy of cooking. This recipe brings together humble ingredients to create a meal that feels indulgent yet wholesome.
The golden, bubbling cheese crust atop vibrant, tender vegetables is a sight to behold, while the creamy, savory filling provides comfort in every bite. Whether you’re cooking for your family, hosting a dinner party, or simply indulging in some self-care, this casserole is the perfect choice.
What truly sets this recipe apart is its timeless appeal. It bridges the gap between generations, offering something for everyone to enjoy. With its simplicity, versatility, and incredible flavor, this casserole is destined to become a favorite in your home.
So gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and prepare to create a dish that will fill your kitchen with warmth and your heart with joy. Happy cooking!