Swiss Cheese Vegetable Casserole is the perfect combination of creamy, cheesy goodness and nutritious vegetables. It’s a hearty dish that can be served as a main course or a satisfying side. The rich, nutty flavor of Swiss cheese complements the freshness of broccoli, carrots, cauliflower, and zucchini, creating a well-balanced meal that’s sure to please everyone at the table. This casserole is ideal for family dinners, potlucks, or whenever you’re craving a comforting dish packed with nutrients.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups Swiss cheese, shredded
- 2 cups broccoli, chopped
- 1 cup carrots, sliced
- 2 cups cauliflower, chopped
- 1 cup zucchini, sliced
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 3 tablespoons flour
- 2 cups milk
- 1 teaspoon mustard powder
- A pinch of nutmeg
- Salt and pepper to taste
- ½ cup bread crumbs (for topping)
Instructions:
- Vegetable Prep:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly steam the broccoli, carrots, cauliflower, and zucchini until they are just tender, but still have a slight crunch. This ensures the vegetables maintain their texture during baking. - Sauté the Onion and Garlic:
In a skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the diced onion and minced garlic, sautéing until they become translucent and fragrant. This forms the flavorful base for the sauce. - Make the Roux:
Sprinkle the flour over the sautéed onions and garlic, stirring to combine. Cook for about 1 minute to eliminate the raw flour taste. Gradually pour in the milk, whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Stir in the mustard powder, nutmeg, salt, and pepper. Continue whisking until the mixture thickens into a smooth, creamy sauce. - Combine Vegetables and Sauce:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the steamed vegetables with the creamy sauce. Add half of the shredded Swiss cheese and stir well to ensure the vegetables are evenly coated. - Assemble the Casserole:
Transfer the vegetable and sauce mixture into a greased baking dish. Sprinkle the remaining shredded Swiss cheese evenly over the top, followed by a layer of bread crumbs for a crispy finish. - Bake:
Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly. The cheese should be melted and slightly browned. - Serve:
Once out of the oven, let the casserole rest for a few minutes before serving. This helps the flavors meld and makes it easier to serve.
Cooking Tips:
- Steam, Don’t Boil: Lightly steaming the vegetables instead of boiling helps them retain their nutrients and natural flavors while maintaining a satisfying crunch.
- Whisk the Sauce Continuously: When making the roux and adding the milk, be sure to whisk continuously to prevent lumps from forming in your creamy sauce.
- Customizable Vegetables: Feel free to switch up the vegetables based on your preferences or what you have available. Spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms could be great additions to this dish.
- Cheese Substitutions: While Swiss cheese provides a nutty and savory flavor, you can also use sharp cheddar or Gruyère for a different taste profile.
Nutritional Benefits:
- Rich in Fiber: The assortment of vegetables like broccoli, carrots, and cauliflower provides a good amount of dietary fiber, promoting digestive health and keeping you fuller for longer.
- High in Calcium: Swiss cheese and milk contribute a significant amount of calcium, which is essential for maintaining strong bones and teeth.
- Antioxidant Boost: Broccoli and cauliflower are rich in antioxidants, which help reduce inflammation and protect against chronic diseases.
- Protein-Packed: Thanks to the cheese and milk, this dish contains a moderate amount of protein, which is essential for muscle repair and immune function.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- Creamy and Comforting: The combination of creamy cheese sauce and tender vegetables makes this casserole a comforting, soul-warming meal.
- Simple and Customizable: With easy-to-find ingredients and flexible vegetable options, this recipe can be tailored to suit your taste preferences and dietary needs.
- Perfect for Leftovers: This casserole holds up well in the fridge, making it a great option for meal prep or reheating for lunch or dinner the next day.
Dietary Information:
- Calories: Approximately 320 per serving (based on 6 servings)
- Protein: 12g per serving
- Carbohydrates: 18g per serving
- Fat: 22g per serving
- Vegetarian: This dish is suitable for vegetarians.
- Gluten-Free: To make this recipe gluten-free, simply substitute the flour with gluten-free flour and use gluten-free bread crumbs.
Why This Recipe Works:
This Swiss Cheese Vegetable Casserole works because it strikes the perfect balance between healthy and indulgent. The creamy Swiss cheese sauce adds richness, while the vegetables provide essential nutrients and a crunchy texture. The bread crumb topping offers a delightful contrast to the smooth, cheesy filling, and the use of mustard and nutmeg elevates the flavor profile, making each bite more complex. This casserole is easy to make, nutritious, and versatile, making it a fantastic addition to any meal rotation.
Conclusion:
Swiss Cheese Vegetable Casserole is a delicious and satisfying dish that brings together the best of both worlds—cheesy indulgence and wholesome vegetables. Whether you serve it as a main dish or a side, this casserole is guaranteed to become a family favorite. With simple ingredients and easy steps, it’s perfect for busy weeknights or weekend gatherings. Give this recipe a try, and enjoy the comforting flavors of Swiss cheese and perfectly cooked vegetables in every bite!
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Swiss Cheese Vegetable Casserole Recipe
- Total Time: 45mins
Description
Swiss Cheese Vegetable Casserole is the perfect combination of creamy, cheesy goodness and nutritious vegetables. It’s a hearty dish that can be served as a main course or a satisfying side. The rich, nutty flavor of Swiss cheese complements the freshness of broccoli, carrots, cauliflower, and zucchini, creating a well-balanced meal that’s sure to please everyone at the table. This casserole is ideal for family dinners, potlucks, or whenever you’re craving a comforting dish packed with nutrients.
Ingredients
- 2 cups Swiss cheese, shredded
- 2 cups broccoli, chopped
- 1 cup carrots, sliced
- 2 cups cauliflower, chopped
- 1 cup zucchini, sliced
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 3 tablespoons flour
- 2 cups milk
- 1 teaspoon mustard powder
- A pinch of nutmeg
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup bread crumbs (for topping)
Instructions
- Vegetable Prep:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly steam the broccoli, carrots, cauliflower, and zucchini until they are just tender, but still have a slight crunch. This ensures the vegetables maintain their texture during baking. - Sauté the Onion and Garlic:
In a skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the diced onion and minced garlic, sautéing until they become translucent and fragrant. This forms the flavorful base for the sauce. - Make the Roux:
Sprinkle the flour over the sautéed onions and garlic, stirring to combine. Cook for about 1 minute to eliminate the raw flour taste. Gradually pour in the milk, whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Stir in the mustard powder, nutmeg, salt, and pepper. Continue whisking until the mixture thickens into a smooth, creamy sauce. - Combine Vegetables and Sauce:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the steamed vegetables with the creamy sauce. Add half of the shredded Swiss cheese and stir well to ensure the vegetables are evenly coated. - Assemble the Casserole:
Transfer the vegetable and sauce mixture into a greased baking dish. Sprinkle the remaining shredded Swiss cheese evenly over the top, followed by a layer of bread crumbs for a crispy finish. - Bake:
Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly. The cheese should be melted and slightly browned. - Serve:
Once out of the oven, let the casserole rest for a few minutes before serving. This helps the flavors meld and makes it easier to serve.
- Prep Time: 20mins
- Cook Time: 25mins