A hearty and nutritious casserole loaded with fresh vegetables and topped with melted cheese. This dish is perfect as a main course or a side dish and is easy to customize with your favorite veggies.
Preparation Time:
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
Ingredients
- 1 broccoli head, cut into florets
- Salt, to taste
- 2 tbsp milk
- 1 onion, diced
- Olive oil, for sautéing
- 1 carrot, diced
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- Mushrooms, sliced (150–200 g)
- 1 zucchini, diced
- 2 bell peppers, diced
- Cherry tomatoes, halved (150 g)
- 4 eggs
- 5 tbsp sunflower oil
- 130 g (1 cup) flour
- 500 ml (2.5 cups) milk
- Fresh parsley, chopped (2 tbsp)
- 150 g (1.5 cups) cheese, grated
Directions
Prepare the Broccoli:
- Bring a pot of salted water to a boil.
- Add the broccoli florets and cook for 2 minutes. Drain and set aside.
Sauté the Vegetables:
- Heat olive oil in a large pan over medium heat.
- Add diced onion and sauté until translucent.
- Add diced carrot and minced garlic, sauté for another 2–3 minutes.
- Add sliced mushrooms and cook until soft.
- Add diced zucchini, bell peppers, and cherry tomatoes. Cook for 5–7 minutes until tender. Season with salt.
Prepare the Egg Mixture:
- In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, sunflower oil, flour, and 500 ml of milk until smooth. Season with salt.
- Add the sautéed vegetables and fresh parsley to the egg mixture and mix thoroughly.
Assemble the Casserole:
- Preheat oven to 180°C (350°F).
- Grease a baking dish with olive oil.
- Spread cooked broccoli florets evenly in the dish.
- Pour the egg and vegetable mixture over the broccoli, spreading it evenly.
- Sprinkle grated cheese on top.
Bake:
- Bake in the preheated oven for 40 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the casserole is set.
Serve:
- Let the casserole cool slightly before serving.
- Garnish with additional parsley if desired.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve as a main course with a side of crusty bread.
- Pair with a simple green salad for a light and balanced meal.
Cooking Tips
- Use your favorite cheese, such as cheddar, mozzarella, or a mix, for added flavor.
- Substitute or add other vegetables, like spinach or sweet potatoes, based on your preference.
- To make the dish gluten-free, substitute flour with a gluten-free blend or almond flour.
Nutritional Benefits
- Broccoli and Bell Peppers: High in vitamins A, C, and antioxidants.
- Cheese: Provides calcium and protein.
- Eggs: Offer high-quality protein and essential nutrients.
Dietary Information
- Vegetarian
- Can be made gluten-free with flour substitutions
Nutritional Facts (Per Serving – Approx. 6 servings):
- Calories: 250
- Protein: 11 g
- Fat: 14 g
- Carbohydrates: 20 g
- Fiber: 4 g
Storage
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.
- Freeze portions for up to 1 month; thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Packed with fresh, colorful vegetables and a cheesy topping.
- Easy to prepare and perfect for meal prep or entertaining.
- Customizable with your favorite vegetables and seasonings.
- A nutritious and satisfying dish for the whole family.
Conclusion
This Vegetable and Cheese Casserole is a wholesome and flavorful dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether served as a comforting dinner or a special brunch dish, its creamy texture and cheesy topping make it a crowd-pleaser. Try this recipe for a simple yet satisfying way to enjoy a variety of vegetables in one delicious bite.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I make this casserole ahead of time? Yes, assemble the casserole and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Bake just before serving.
- Can I use frozen vegetables? Yes, but thaw and drain them first to avoid excess moisture.
- What type of milk works best? Whole milk provides a richer texture, but you can use plant-based milk for a dairy-free version.
- Can I use a different type of cheese? Yes, cheddar, gouda, or feta work well in this recipe.
- How do I prevent the casserole from being watery? Cook the vegetables until tender but not overcooked, and drain excess water.
- Can I make this casserole gluten-free? Yes, substitute the flour with gluten-free flour or cornstarch.
- How do I store leftovers? Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat before serving.
- Can I freeze the casserole? Yes, freeze portions in an airtight container for up to 1 month. Thaw and reheat before serving.
- What can I serve with this dish? Pair with a fresh salad or grilled protein for a complete meal.
- Can I add meat to the recipe? Yes, cooked chicken, sausage, or bacon can be added for a heartier dish.
Enjoy this delicious casserole packed with vibrant vegetables and melty cheese!