Vegetable and Cheese Casserole with Sour Cream and Garlic

This post may contain affiliate links learn more

This Vegetable and Cheese Casserole is a flavorful and nutritious dish that brings together a variety of vegetables, including eggplant, carrots, bell pepper, broccoli, cauliflower, and potatoes, all baked together with a creamy, cheesy topping. The addition of sour cream, garlic, and Provencal herbs creates a rich, savory flavor that enhances the natural sweetness of the vegetables. Topped with melted cheese and fresh dill, this casserole is both comforting and satisfying, perfect for a hearty lunch or dinner.

Preparation, Cook, and Total Times

Preparation Time: 20 minutes
Cooking Time: 50 minutes

Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
Servings: 4-5 people

Cuisine

This dish combines Mediterranean-inspired ingredients with a French touch, thanks to the use of Provencal herbs and fresh dill. It’s a comforting casserole that brings together wholesome vegetables and a creamy, cheesy sauce.

Full List of Ingredients

4 eggs
100 ml heavy cream
Salt, to taste

Black pepper, to taste
1 eggplant, chopped
1 carrot, peeled and chopped

1 bell pepper, chopped
Provencal herbs, to taste
Olive oil, for drizzling

450 g broccoli, chopped
450 g cauliflower, chopped
230 g cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or a blend), grated

100 g sour cream
1 tomato, chopped
1 clove garlic, minced

Fresh dill, chopped, for garnish
3 potatoes, peeled and sliced
Paprika, to taste

Oregano, to taste

Step-by-Step Cooking Directions

Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F). Lightly grease a large baking dish with olive oil or cooking spray.

Prepare the Vegetables
Peel and chop the eggplant, carrot, bell pepper, potatoes, and slice the broccoli and cauliflower into bite-sized florets. Drizzle the vegetables with olive oil, and sprinkle with salt, black pepper, paprika, oregano, and Provencal herbs. Toss to coat evenly.
Bake the Vegetables (First Bake)
Arrange the prepared vegetables in a single layer on a baking sheet or in the prepared baking dish. Bake in the preheated oven for about 20 minutes at 200°C (400°F) until the vegetables start to soften and roast.
Prepare the Creamy Mixture
In a bowl, whisk together 4 eggs, 100 ml heavy cream, and 100 g sour cream. Add a pinch of salt and black pepper, and mix well. Set aside.

Cook the Broccoli and Cauliflower
In a pan, heat a little olive oil and sauté the broccoli and cauliflower for 3-5 minutes until they are slightly tender but still crisp. Add them to the roasted vegetables.
Assemble the Casserole
Once the vegetables are baked and the broccoli and cauliflower are sautéed, combine everything in the prepared baking dish. Pour the creamy mixture over the vegetables, and top with grated cheese.
Bake the Casserole (Second Bake)
Lower the oven temperature to 180°C (350°F) and bake for an additional 30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden brown.

Prepare the Topping
While the casserole is baking, chop the tomato, garlic, and fresh dill. Once the casserole is done, remove it from the oven and sprinkle the fresh tomato, garlic, and dill on top.
Serve
Allow the casserole to cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy this delicious vegetable and cheese casserole with your favorite side dishes.

Nutritional Information (per serving)

Calories: 350 kcal
Protein: 15 g

Fat: 25 g
Carbohydrates: 25 g
Fiber: 7 g

Sugar: 8 g
Sodium: 450 mg
Cholesterol: 180 mg

The Origins and Popularity of the Recipe

Vegetable casseroles are popular in many cuisines for their versatility and ability to pack a variety of vegetables into one dish. This version incorporates Mediterranean-inspired flavors, with ingredients like olive oil, Provencal herbs, and fresh dill, which are commonly used in French and Mediterranean cooking. The addition of cheese and a creamy egg mixture makes it rich and hearty, perfect for a comforting meal.

Reasons Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Packed with Vegetables: This dish is a great way to get a variety of vegetables in one meal, including eggplant, carrots, bell pepper, and cauliflower.
Rich and Creamy: The combination of heavy cream, sour cream, and cheese creates a rich, satisfying texture.

Flavorful: The Provencal herbs, garlic, and dill add layers of flavor that make this casserole stand out.
Versatile: You can easily adjust the vegetables based on what’s in season or what you have in your fridge.
Family-Friendly: The cheesy, creamy topping is sure to be a hit with both adults and kids.

Health Benefits

Vegetables: This casserole is rich in fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants, thanks to the variety of vegetables used.
Eggs: Eggs provide high-quality protein and essential nutrients like vitamin B12 and choline.
Dairy: The sour cream and cheese add calcium, which supports bone health.

Olive Oil: Olive oil is rich in healthy monounsaturated fats that help reduce inflammation and support heart health.
Garlic: Garlic has been shown to support immune health and reduce inflammation.

Serving Suggestions

With a Side Salad: Pair this casserole with a fresh green salad for a light and refreshing contrast.

With Roasted Potatoes: Serve with crispy roasted potatoes for an extra dose of comfort.
With Rice or Quinoa: Serve over a bed of rice or quinoa for a filling, hearty meal.
For Brunch: This casserole is perfect for a weekend brunch when paired with a fresh fruit salad or bread.

Cooking Tips

Don’t Overcrowd the Vegetables: Make sure to arrange the vegetables in a single layer when roasting to ensure they cook evenly.
Add More Cheese: If you love cheese, feel free to add more on top before the final bake for an even cheesier crust.
Customize the Vegetables: You can swap or add other vegetables like zucchini, spinach, or mushrooms to suit your taste.

Let the Casserole Rest: Allow the casserole to rest for a few minutes after baking to let the cheese set and make it easier to serve.

Variations to Try

Add Meat: Add cooked chicken, turkey, or sausage to the casserole for a heartier version.
Spicy Version: Add chili flakes or jalapeños for a bit of heat.

Make It Vegan: Replace the cheese with a vegan alternative and use plant-based sour cream and cream.
Different Herbs: Experiment with basil, thyme, or rosemary instead of Provencal herbs for a different flavor profile.

Conclusion

This Vegetable and Cheese Casserole with Sour Cream and Garlic is the ultimate comfort food. It combines a variety of colorful vegetables, a creamy sauce, and a melty cheese topping, creating a rich and satisfying meal. Whether served for dinner or as part of a weekend brunch, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen.

10 Comprehensive FAQ Section

Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole ahead of time and store it in the fridge. When ready to bake, just add a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
Can I use frozen vegetables?
Yes, you can use frozen vegetables, but fresh vegetables will give the casserole a better texture.
Can I use a different type of cheese?
Yes, you can use mozzarella, gouda, or any other cheese you prefer for a different flavor.

Can I make this dish gluten-free?
Yes, simply substitute the flour with a gluten-free alternative to make this casserole gluten-free.
Can I add more spices?
Yes, feel free to experiment with additional spices such as paprika, thyme, or even curry powder for more flavor.
How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for the best texture.

Can I use different vegetables?
Yes, you can swap vegetables like zucchini, mushrooms, or spinach for the vegetables listed in the recipe.
Can I freeze this casserole?
Yes, you can freeze the casserole before baking. Just let it cool, wrap it tightly, and store it in the freezer for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before baking.
What can I serve this casserole with?
Serve with rice, quinoa, or a light salad for a complete meal.

How can I make this dish spicier?
Add chili flakes, jalapeños, or hot sauce to the dish for a spicy kick