Cheesy Vegetable Casserole

Looking for a dish that’s comforting, nutritious, and brimming with flavor? This Cheesy Vegetable Casserole is the perfect solution. Packed with vibrant vegetables and smothered in a creamy, cheesy sauce, this dish is ideal for family dinners, potlucks, or as a holiday side dish. It’s a great way to enjoy vegetables in a way that’s both delicious and satisfying.

Ingredients

Vegetables:

2 cups broccoli florets

1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

1 cup zucchini, diced

1 cup yellow bell peppers, diced

1 cup red bell peppers, diced

1/2 cup red onion, finely chopped

Cheese Sauce:

2 tablespoons butter

2 tablespoons all-purpose flour

1 cup milk

1 cup heavy cream

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1/2 teaspoon dried thyme

1/2 teaspoon salt (or to taste)

1/4 teaspoon black pepper

1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese

1/2 cup Parmesan cheese

Topping:

1/2 cup breadcrumbs (optional)

1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

Instructions

Prepare the Vegetables:

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

Lightly steam the broccoli florets for 3–4 minutes or until slightly tender but still crisp. Set aside.

Make the Cheese Sauce:

In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the flour and whisk for 1–2 minutes to create a roux.

Slowly pour in the milk and heavy cream, whisking continuously to avoid lumps.

Add garlic powder, thyme, salt, and black pepper. Stir until the mixture thickens.

Reduce heat to low and stir in shredded cheddar cheese and Parmesan until melted and smooth.

Assemble the Casserole:

In a greased casserole dish, layer the steamed broccoli, cherry tomatoes, zucchini, bell peppers, and red onion.

Pour the cheese sauce evenly over the vegetables, ensuring they are well-coated.

Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese (and breadcrumbs if using) over the top.

Bake:

Place the casserole in the oven and bake for 20–25 minutes or until bubbly and golden brown on top.

Serve:

Let the casserole cool for 5 minutes before serving. Enjoy this cheesy, hearty dish!

Conclusion

This Cheesy Vegetable Casserole is a delightful way to enjoy a medley of fresh vegetables in a creamy, cheesy embrace. Whether you’re serving it as a main dish or a side, it’s sure to become a family favorite. The vibrant colors and flavors make it as appealing to the eyes as it is to the taste buds. Give it a try, and watch it disappear from the table in no time!

Tips for Success

Customize the Vegetables:

Swap in other vegetables like cauliflower, carrots, or mushrooms depending on what you have on hand.

Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese (and breadcrumbs if using) over the top.

Bake:

Place the casserole in the oven and bake for 20–25 minutes or until bubbly and golden brown on top.

Serve:

Let the casserole cool for 5 minutes before serving. Enjoy this cheesy, hearty dish!

Conclusion

This Cheesy Vegetable Casserole is a delightful way to enjoy a medley of fresh vegetables in a creamy, cheesy embrace. Whether you’re serving it as a main dish or a side, it’s sure to become a family favorite. The vibrant colors and flavors make it as appealing to the eyes as it is to the taste buds. Give it a try, and watch it disappear from the table in no time!

Tips for Success

Customize the Vegetables:

Swap in other vegetables like cauliflower, carrots, or mushrooms depending on what you have on hand.