Are you looking for a hearty and nutritious dish that can please a crowd? Look no further than this vegetable casserole recipe! Packed with vibrant vegetables, creamy goodness, and a crunchy topping, this casserole is not only delicious but also versatile enough to suit various dietary preferences. Whether you’re hosting a family gathering, preparing a potluck dish, or simply craving a comforting meal, this vegetable casserole is sure to impress.
Vegetable Casserole Recipe: Ingredients
To make this delightful vegetable casserole recipe, you will need the following ingredients:
For the Casserole:
- 2 cups of broccoli florets (about 150g)
- 2 cups of cauliflower florets (about 150g)
- 1 cup of sliced carrots (about 120g)
- 1 cup of bell peppers, diced (about 150g)
- 1 cup of corn kernels (fresh or frozen)
- 1 can (15 oz) of cream of mushroom soup (or homemade)
- 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese (about 100g)
- 1/2 cup of milk (or plant-based milk)
- 1 teaspoon of garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon of onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Topping:
- 1 cup of breadcrumbs (or crushed crackers)
- 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese (about 50g)
- 2 tablespoons of melted butter (or olive oil)
- 1 teaspoon of dried Italian herbs (optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Follow these simple steps to create your delicious vegetable casserole:
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your casserole cooks evenly.
Step 2: Prepare the Vegetables
In a large mixing bowl, combine the broccoli, cauliflower, carrots, bell peppers, and corn. Toss them together to mix well.
Step 3: Make the Casserole Mixture
In another bowl, whisk together the cream of mushroom soup, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Pour this mixture over the vegetables and stir until all the vegetables are well coated.
Step 4: Add Cheese
Fold in 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese into the vegetable mixture. This will add creaminess and flavor to your casserole.
Step 5: Transfer to Baking Dish
Grease a 9×13 inch (23×33 cm) baking dish with cooking spray or butter. Pour the vegetable mixture into the dish, spreading it evenly.
Step 6: Prepare the Topping
In a small bowl, combine the breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, melted butter, and dried herbs (if using). Mix until the breadcrumbs are well coated.
Step 7: Assemble the Casserole
Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture evenly over the vegetable mixture in the baking dish.
Step 8: Bake
Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the vegetables are tender.
Step 9: Serve
Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your delicious vegetable casserole!
Vegetable Casserole Recipe: Cooking Tips
- Vegetable Substitutions: Feel free to use any vegetables you have on hand. Zucchini, spinach, or green beans work wonderfully in this casserole.
- Make it Vegan: Substitute the cream of mushroom soup with a vegan alternative, use plant-based milk, and replace cheese with a dairy-free option.
- Add Protein: For a heartier dish, consider adding cooked quinoa, lentils, or chickpeas to the vegetable mixture.
Vegetable Casserole Recipe: Nutritional Information
Here’s a rough estimate of the nutritional information per serving (based on 8 servings):
- Calories: 220
- Protein: 8g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fat: 9g
- Fiber: 4g
- Sodium: 400mg
Storage Advice
- Refrigeration: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
- Freezing: This casserole freezes well! Allow it to cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and bake at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.
Vegetable Casserole Recipe Variations
- Cheesy Broccoli Casserole: Increase the amount of cheddar cheese and add a layer of cream cheese for extra creaminess.
- Mediterranean Style: Add olives, sun-dried tomatoes, and feta cheese for a Mediterranean twist.
- Spicy Version: Incorporate jalapeños or red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
Vegetable Casserole Recipe FAQ
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the casserole a day in advance. Just cover it and store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake.
What can I serve with vegetable casserole?
This casserole pairs well with a simple green salad, garlic bread, or a side of roasted potatoes.
Can I use frozen vegetables?
Absolutely! Frozen vegetables can be used directly in this recipe. Just make sure to thaw and drain any excess water before mixing.
Conclusion
This vegetable casserole recipe is a fantastic way to enjoy a variety of vegetables in a single dish. It’s easy to prepare, customizable, and perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re serving it as a main dish or a side, this casserole is sure to be a hit. So gather your ingredients, follow the steps, and enjoy a comforting meal that everyone will love!
Try this vegetable casserole recipe today and share your results with us! What variations did you try? We’d love to hear your feedback!
