Indulge in the comfort of our Everyday Veggie Casserole, a dish that combines the simplicity of fresh vegetables with the hearty richness of cheese and eggs. This casserole is a staple for any family’s weekly meal rotation, providing a balanced, nutritious dinner that is as easy to prepare as it is delicious. Whether you’re a busy parent or just looking for a quick and satisfying meal, this recipe delivers on all fronts.
This casserole is particularly great for those evenings when you need something comforting and fulfilling without spending hours in the kitchen. Its versatility allows you to use whatever vegetables you have on hand, making it a practical dish.
Full Recipe:
- Ingredients:
- 4 potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1 head of broccoli, cut into florets
- 1 teaspoon salt, plus more to taste
- 1 onion, diced
- 1 carrot, diced
- Olive oil for frying
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 red pepper, diced
- 2 small green peppers, diced
- A handful of cherry tomatoes, halved
- 4 eggs
- 5 tablespoons sunflower oil
- 1 cup (130g) flour
- 2 cups (400ml) milk
- Fresh parsley and dill, chopped
- 100g (1 cup) grated cheese
- 2-3 tablespoons Greek yogurt or sour cream
- 1 tablespoon ketchup
- 1 tablespoon mayonnaise
- Directions:
- Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F).
- Boil the diced potatoes and broccoli florets with 1 teaspoon of salt until the potatoes are tender. Drain and set aside.
- In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Sauté onion and carrot until softened, about 5 minutes. Add garlic and sauté for an additional 2-3 minutes.
- In a large bowl, combine the cooked potatoes, broccoli, sautéed onion, carrot, and garlic.
- Add the diced red and green peppers, and cherry tomatoes to the bowl.
- In another bowl, whisk together eggs, sunflower oil, flour, and milk until smooth. Season with salt.
- Pour the egg mixture over the vegetables, stirring to combine.
- Stir in chopped parsley, dill, and grated cheese.
- Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and bake for 40 minutes, or until golden brown on top.
- Mix Greek yogurt or sour cream, ketchup, mayonnaise, minced garlic, and dill in a small bowl to make the sauce.
- Serve the casserole hot, topped with the creamy yogurt sauce.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 40 minutes | Total Time: 55 minutes | Kcal: 350 kcal | Servings: 6
Ingredients Overview:
This recipe brings together a vibrant mix of vegetables, including:
- Potatoes and Broccoli: A hearty base that adds texture and fiber.
- Onion and Carrot: They bring sweetness and depth of flavor once sautéed.
- Garlic: Just a few cloves enhance the dish with a warm, aromatic touch.
- Bell Peppers and Cherry Tomatoes: Add a burst of color and a rich, juicy flavor.
- Eggs and Flour: These help bind all the ingredients, giving the casserole a firm yet tender structure.
- Milk and Cheese: Introduce creaminess and a delectable cheesy crust.
- Herbs and Seasonings: Fresh parsley, dill, and basic condiments perfectly season the veggies.
Health Benefits:
Loaded with vegetables, this casserole is not only satisfying but also packed with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. The eggs and cheese add protein and calcium, making it a balanced meal. It’s also versatile enough to adapt to any dietary needs, such as using gluten-free flour or plant-based milk and cheese for vegan preferences.
Preparation Tips:
- Vegetable Prep: Cutting the vegetables into uniform sizes ensures they cook evenly.
- Layering: Layering the ingredients effectively allows each element to release its flavors, which meld beautifully in the oven.
- Baking: Cooking at a moderate temperature helps the casserole cook through without burning the top.
Serving Suggestions:
This casserole pairs wonderfully with a light salad or steamed greens for a complete meal. It’s also fantastic as a standalone dish, enjoyed hot right out of the oven. For those who enjoy a bit of extra zest, the accompanying yogurt sauce, enriched with ketchup and mayonnaise, adds a creamy, tangy finish that complements the casserole’s deep flavors.
Why It’s a Weekly Favorite:
- Effortless to Prepare: Most of the cooking time is hands-off, allowing you to focus on other tasks.
- Highly Nutritious: Offers a solid dose of your daily vegetable intake.
- Comforting: Warm, comforting, and perfect for all seasons, especially the colder months.
Customization Ideas:
- Add proteins: For a non-vegetarian twist, include cooked chicken or turkey.
- Vary the vegetables: Depending on the season or your preference, try adding mushrooms, zucchini, or sweet potatoes.
This Veggie Casserole is a celebration of all things fresh and flavorful, designed to make your weeknight dinners a little easier and a lot tastier. Try it once, and it might just become your go-to comfort dish.