This Creamy Vegetable Casserole is a colorful, healthy, and delicious dish made with fresh vegetables baked to perfection in a rich and creamy sauce. Perfect as a main dish or a hearty side, this casserole is easy to prepare and ideal for family dinners or potlucks.
Preparation Time
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Servings: 4-6
Ingredients
- Broccoli: 1 cup (200 g), chopped into florets
- Cauliflower: 1 cup (200 g), chopped into florets
- Cherry Tomatoes: 1 cup (150 g)
- Mushrooms: 1 cup (150 g), sliced
- Yellow Bell Pepper: 1 medium, diced
- Carrots: 2 medium, diced
- Onion: 1 medium, finely chopped
- Olive Oil: 2 tablespoons
For the Sauce
- Butter: 2 tablespoons
- All-Purpose Flour: 2 tablespoons
- Milk: 1½ cups (375 ml)
- Cheddar Cheese: 1 cup (100 g), grated
- Salt: 1 teaspoon
- Black Pepper: ½ teaspoon
- Garlic Powder: ½ teaspoon
- Dried Thyme: ½ teaspoon (optional)
Directions
- Prepare the Vegetables
- Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).
- In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion, carrots, and bell pepper, and sauté for 5 minutes until softened.
- Steam or blanch the broccoli and cauliflower for 3-4 minutes until slightly tender.
- Assemble the Casserole
- In a greased baking dish, layer the broccoli, cauliflower, mushrooms, cherry tomatoes, and sautéed vegetables.
- Make the Creamy Sauce
- In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the flour and cook for 1 minute to remove the raw flavor.
- Gradually whisk in the milk, stirring continuously to avoid lumps. Cook for 3-4 minutes until thickened.
- Remove from heat and stir in the grated cheddar cheese, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and thyme (if using).
- Combine and Bake
- Pour the creamy cheese sauce evenly over the vegetables in the baking dish.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly.
- Serve
- Let the casserole cool for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh herbs if desired.
5 Serving Suggestions
- Serve as a main dish with a side of crusty bread or rice.
- Pair with grilled chicken or fish for a complete meal.
- Enjoy as a hearty side dish alongside roasted meat.
- Add a fresh green salad for a balanced and colorful meal.
- Top with extra cheese and breadcrumbs before baking for a crunchy topping.
5 Cooking Tips
- Use fresh or frozen vegetables; just ensure frozen ones are thawed and drained.
- For extra flavor, add a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese to the sauce.
- Swap cheddar for mozzarella, Gruyere, or your favorite cheese blend.
- Roast the vegetables for 10 minutes before assembling for added depth of flavor.
- Adjust the thickness of the sauce by adding more or less milk.
Nutritional Benefits
- Broccoli and Cauliflower: High in vitamins C and K, and rich in fiber.
- Cherry Tomatoes: Provide antioxidants and vitamin A.
- Carrots: Packed with beta-carotene and vitamin A.
- Cheese and Milk: Great sources of calcium and protein.
Dietary Information
- Vegetarian: Yes
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free flour for the sauce.
- Dairy-Free: Replace milk and cheese with plant-based alternatives.
Nutritional Facts (Per Serving)
- Calories: 280 kcal
- Protein: 12 g
- Fat: 16 g
- Carbohydrates: 20 g
- Fiber: 5 g
- Sugar: 6 g
Storage
- Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: Freeze individual portions in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months. Thaw and reheat before serving.
- Reheating: Reheat in a preheated oven at 180°C (350°F) for 10-15 minutes or microwave for 2-3 minutes.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- A healthy and colorful way to enjoy vegetables.
- Creamy, cheesy, and full of comforting flavors.
- Easy to customize with your favorite vegetables and spices.
- Perfect for meal prep or as a family-friendly dish.
- Delicious as a main or side dish for any occasion.
Conclusion
This Creamy Vegetable Casserole is a crowd-pleasing recipe that combines a medley of vibrant vegetables with a rich, cheesy sauce. Whether you’re serving it as a comforting main or a flavorful side, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your home. Enjoy the hearty goodness and creamy texture in every bite!
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10 Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use other vegetables? Yes, zucchini, green beans, or asparagus are great alternatives.
- Can I make it vegan? Substitute milk and cheese with plant-based options like almond milk and vegan cheese.
- What’s a good substitute for cheddar? Mozzarella, Gruyere, or Monterey Jack work well.
- How do I prevent the sauce from clumping? Whisk continuously while adding milk to the flour-butter mixture.
- Can I prepare this in advance? Yes, assemble the casserole and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Bake just before serving.
- Can I use fresh tomatoes? Yes, chop fresh tomatoes into chunks and use them instead of cherry tomatoes.
- Can I make it spicy? Add chili flakes or diced jalapeños to the sauce.
- How can I add protein? Mix in cooked chicken, tofu, or chickpeas for added protein.
- What’s the best way to thaw frozen vegetables? Rinse under cold water and pat dry before using.
- Can I double the recipe? Yes, use a larger baking dish and adjust baking time if needed.
Enjoy this nutritious and flavorful vegetable casserole that’s as beautiful as it is delicious! 🥦🍅✨