Save This Cheesy Vegetable Casserole is my favorite answer to those comfort food cravings. It is loaded with a rainbow of tender veggies nestled in a luxuriously smooth cheese sauce and finished with a golden, bubbly topping. Whether you are feeding family on weeknights or bringing a show-stopper to a potluck, this dish always gets rave reviews and empty plates.
The first time I served this at a holiday were two kids who usually pick out the peas went back for seconds My family has begged me to keep it in our regular dinner rotation ever since
Ingredients
- Broccoli florets: Fresh broccoli gives a satisfying crunch and keeps its color when blanched Look for bright green heads without brown spots
- Cauliflower florets: Cauliflower brings creamy texture and absorbs all that cheesy goodness Choose tight white heads for best flavor
- Sliced carrots: Their natural sweetness pairs with sharp cheese You want firm carrots without cracks
- Diced red bell pepper: Adds a pop of color and mild sweetness Pick peppers that are heavy and glossy
- Frozen peas: Peas add bursts of tenderness and cook perfectly from frozen Choose a high-quality bag without ice crystals
- Unsalted butter: Gives depth and richness Opt for real butter not margarine
- All-purpose flour: Thickens the sauce Use unbleached flour for a richer flavor
- Whole milk: Makes the sauce creamy and cohesive Use whole for richness or low-fat if you prefer lighter
- Shredded sharp cheddar cheese: Classic tangy sharpness shines through the veggies Look for freshly shredded to melt best
- Grated Parmesan cheese: Adds salty umami and nutty notes Use authentic Parmesan if possible
- Salt: Fine sea salt brings all flavors together
- Black pepper: Freshly cracked for subtle heat and earthiness
- Ground nutmeg: Optional but deepens the cheese sauce Just a pinch transforms the flavor
- Shredded mozzarella cheese: Melts into a lovely gooey topping Buy blocks and shred at home for best melt
- Panko breadcrumbs: Extra crunch and lightness to finish Look for Japanese-style panko for ultimate texture
- Melted butter: Binds the breadcrumbs and helps the topping turn golden yellow
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven:
- Set your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit Make sure you grease your baking dish well so nothing sticks and you get easy serving slices
- Blanch the Vegetables:
- Fill your biggest pot with water and toss in a little salt Bring it to a rolling boil Add broccoli cauliflower and carrots Let these simmer just three minutes You want them a bit soft but still vibrant Immediately drain and rinse under cold water so they keep their color and do not overcook
- Make the Cheese Sauce:
- Melt butter over medium heat in a large skillet Once melted whisk in the flour Keep whisking one minute to take away any raw flour flavor Slowly add milk in a steady stream Still whisking watch as the sauce thickens which usually takes about four minutes
- Melt Cheese Into the Sauce:
- Take the skillet off the heat and stir in sharp cheddar Parmesan salt pepper and a pinch of nutmeg Mix until the cheeses melt into a smooth glossy sauce
- Combine the Veggies and Cheese Sauce:
- Grab a big bowl and add all the veggies the blanched ones red pepper and peas Pour in your cheese sauce Gently fold everything together so each bite gets some cheesy coating
- Transfer to Baking Dish:
- Spoon the mixture evenly into your greased casserole dish Try to spread everything out so the layer is even and there are no big air pockets
- Assemble the Topping:
- In a small bowl mix together mozzarella panko and melted butter Combine by hand until every crumb looks glossy with butter
- Top the Casserole and Bake:
- Sprinkle the breadcrumb and cheese mixture evenly over the top Pop the dish into your oven Bake twenty five to thirty minutes You will know it is done when the topping is golden and the cheese sauce is visibly bubbling around the edges
- Let Rest and Serve:
- Pull the casserole out of the oven Let it rest for five minutes This helps the cheesy sauce set up slightly making it easier to cut neat servings
Save I always look forward to the cheesy pull from that topping layer As soon as I bring this to the table everyone seems to brighten up and reach for a little more even the veggie skeptics in my house
Storage Tips
Leftovers store best in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days Warm gently in the oven or microwave until hot throughout If reheating from chilled let the casserole sit at room temperature while your oven heats to avoid cold spots in the middle
Ingredient Substitutions
Nearly any vegetable you love or have on hand works well in this dish Frozen vegetables save prep time just be sure to thaw and drain before using For a sharper taste swap half the cheddar for Gruyere or use Colby Jack for a milder flavor Gluten free versions are easy with gluten free panko and flour
Serving Suggestions
Pair with a big green salad or a tangy slaw for freshness Crusty bread is perfect for scooping every bit of cheesy sauce This dish goes well alongside roasted chicken or as a festive vegetarian main for the holidays
Cultural Roots
Cheesy casseroles found a place at American family tables in the mid twentieth century as both celebration food and everyday fare They offered an affordable way to combine leftover vegetables with pantry staples Topping with breadcrumbs became the classic hallmark of homey comfort
Save Enjoy every cheesy bite of this vegetable casserole and share it with friends for guaranteed smiles around your dinner table.
Recipe FAQ
- → Can I use frozen vegetables instead of fresh?
Yes, frozen vegetables work well. Thaw and drain them before mixing with the cheese sauce for best results.
- → How do I make this gluten-free?
Simply substitute gluten-free flour and breadcrumbs to avoid gluten, maintaining texture and flavor.
- → What type of cheese is best for the sauce?
Sharp cheddar provides depth, while Parmesan adds richness. Feel free to mix in other cheeses for variety.
- → Can I prepare this casserole in advance?
Yes, assemble and refrigerate before baking. Bake when needed, adding a few extra minutes to cook time if chilled.
- → Is it suitable for vegetarians?
The dish is entirely vegetarian, featuring only vegetables and dairy ingredients, with no meat or fish included.
- → How can I add extra flavor?
A splash of cayenne or smoked paprika enhances the sauce. Herbs like thyme or parsley also boost taste.