This Vegetable Casserole is a hearty and delicious dish that brings together a mix of fresh vegetables like mushrooms, cherry tomatoes, bell peppers, and broccoli, all topped with melted cheese for a comforting, savory meal. It’s perfect for a light dinner or as a side dish to accompany your main course. This casserole is loaded with nutrients, easy to prepare, and can be customized with your favorite veggies or cheese options. Whether you’re looking for a vegetarian dinner or a flavorful side, this vegetable casserole will hit the spot!
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Ingredients:
- 1 cup Mushrooms, sliced
- 1 cup Cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 1/2 cups Broccoli florets
- 1 Bell pepper (any color), chopped
- 1/2 cup Cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or a blend), grated
- 2 tablespoons Olive oil
- 1 teaspoon Garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon Dried oregano
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1/2 cup Cream or milk (optional for creamier texture)
- Fresh herbs (such as parsley or thyme) for garnish (optional)
Directions:
- Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F). Grease a baking dish with a little olive oil or non-stick spray.
- Prepare the vegetables: Clean and chop all vegetables. Slice the mushrooms, halve the cherry tomatoes, chop the bell pepper, and cut the broccoli into florets.
- Sauté the vegetables: Heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat. Add the mushrooms and bell peppers. Sauté for 5-7 minutes until softened. Then, add the broccoli florets and continue to sauté for another 3-4 minutes. Season with garlic powder, oregano, salt, and pepper to taste.
- Assemble the casserole: Transfer the sautéed vegetables to the prepared baking dish. Add the halved cherry tomatoes on top, and mix everything together.
- Add the cheese: Pour the cream or milk (if using) evenly over the vegetable mixture. Sprinkle the grated cheese on top of the casserole.
- Bake: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender and the cheese is melted and golden brown on top.
- Serve: Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or thyme if desired. Serve hot and enjoy this wholesome, cheesy vegetable casserole!
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve as a side dish to grilled chicken, steak, or fish.
- Pair with a crisp green salad and some garlic bread for a light, complete meal.
- Top with a fried egg for added protein and a twist on your casserole.
- Serve with a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt for extra creaminess.
- Pair with roasted potatoes or quinoa for a more filling meal.
Cooking Tips:
- You can substitute the cream with vegetable broth or a dairy-free alternative for a lighter version.
- For a more pronounced cheese flavor, use a sharp cheddar or Parmesan.
- Feel free to add other vegetables like zucchini, spinach, or cauliflower for variety.
- If you prefer a crispier topping, place the casserole under the broiler for 2-3 minutes at the end of baking.
- For added flavor, sprinkle some red pepper flakes or hot sauce on top before serving.
Nutritional Benefits:
- Mushrooms: Rich in antioxidants, fiber, and B-vitamins.
- Cherry tomatoes: High in vitamin C and lycopene, an antioxidant that may promote heart health.
- Broccoli: Packed with vitamins A, C, and K, and a great source of fiber.
- Bell peppers: Full of vitamin C, antioxidants, and minerals that support immune function.
- Cheese: Provides calcium and protein, contributing to healthy bones and muscles.
Dietary Information:
- This casserole is vegetarian, but can be made vegan by using dairy-free cheese or omitting the cheese.
- It is gluten-free, making it suitable for those with gluten intolerance.
- Low in carbs and rich in vegetables, it’s a great option for those following a low-carb or keto diet (if cheese is included).
Nutritional Facts (per serving, based on 6 servings):
- Calories: 180 kcal
- Protein: 8 g
- Carbs: 12 g
- Fat: 12 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Sodium: 350 mg
- Sugars: 4 g
Storage:
- Store any leftover casserole in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- To freeze, allow the casserole to cool completely, then wrap tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 3 months. To reheat, bake from frozen in the oven at 180°C (350°F) for 20-25 minutes, or until heated through.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- It’s a one-dish wonder that combines fresh, wholesome ingredients for a meal that’s both delicious and nutritious.
- The rich, gooey cheese on top adds comfort and indulgence to an otherwise light, vegetable-packed casserole.
- It’s easily customizable based on what vegetables you have on hand, making it a versatile and flexible recipe.
- The combination of sautéed and fresh vegetables brings both flavor and texture to each bite, making it a hit at the dinner table.
Conclusion:
This Vegetable Casserole is a simple yet flavorful dish that makes eating vegetables a delight. It’s a perfect way to incorporate more veggies into your diet while indulging in creamy, cheesy goodness. Whether served as a side dish or a light meal, this casserole is guaranteed to satisfy your taste buds and leave everyone coming back for more. You can easily customize it to your liking, making it the perfect recipe for any occasion. Give it a try, and you’ll have a new favorite vegetable dish in no time!
Frequently Asked Questions:
- Can I use frozen vegetables instead of fresh ones?
Yes, you can use frozen vegetables, but make sure to thaw and drain them before adding them to the casserole to prevent excess water from affecting the texture. - Can I use a different type of cheese?
Absolutely! Feel free to swap the cheese for mozzarella, feta, goat cheese, or any other cheese you prefer. - Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the casserole a day ahead and store it in the fridge. Just bake it when you’re ready to serve. - Can I add meat to this casserole?
Yes, you can add cooked ground beef, chicken, or sausage if you prefer a non-vegetarian option. - Is this casserole gluten-free?
Yes, the casserole is naturally gluten-free as it doesn’t contain any gluten-based ingredients. - Can I make this casserole dairy-free?
Yes, you can use dairy-free cheese and plant-based milk to make this casserole dairy-free. - Can I substitute the broccoli with another vegetable?
Yes, you can use cauliflower, spinach, or green beans instead of broccoli for a different flavor profile. - How can I make this casserole spicier?
Add some chili flakes, jalapeños, or a dash of hot sauce to the mix before baking for an extra kick. - Can I freeze this casserole?
Yes, this casserole can be frozen for up to 3 months. Just make sure it’s properly wrapped before freezing. - Can I use a different type of vinegar in the dressing?
Yes, you can substitute apple cider vinegar with white vinegar or balsamic vinegar for a different flavor.