vegetable casserole – recipesshubb

Hearty Vegetable Casserole Recipe

This comforting vegetable casserole is a wholesome, flavorful dish that brings together tender vegetables, a rich sauce, and a golden baked topping. Perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or meal prep, this casserole is satisfying enough to stand on its own while also pairing beautifully with salads, grains, or crusty bread. Whether you are cooking for vegetarians or simply looking to add more vegetables to your meals, this recipe is a reliable and delicious choice.

Vegetable casserole is incredibly versatile. You can adapt it to the vegetables you have on hand, adjust the seasoning to suit your taste, or make it lighter or richer depending on your preferences. This version focuses on classic vegetables, simple ingredients, and a balanced flavor that appeals to all ages.

Why You’ll Love This Vegetable Casserole

Packed with colorful vegetables and nutrients
Easy to prepare with simple pantry ingredients
Customizable for different diets and preferences
Perfect for leftovers and reheating
Ideal for weeknight dinners or special gatherings

This casserole is designed to be filling without feeling heavy, making it a great option year-round.

Ingredients

Vegetables

2 tablespoons olive oil
1 medium onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 carrots, sliced
1 zucchini, sliced
1 red bell pepper, chopped
1 cup broccoli florets
1 cup cauliflower florets
1 cup mushrooms, sliced

Sauce

2 tablespoons butter
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
1½ cups milk (or unsweetened plant-based milk)
½ cup vegetable broth
½ teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
¼ teaspoon black pepper
½ teaspoon dried thyme
½ teaspoon dried oregano

Topping

1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or a blend)
½ cup breadcrumbs or crushed crackers
1 tablespoon olive oil or melted butter

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Vegetables

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a medium-sized casserole dish and set it aside.

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for 3–4 minutes until soft and translucent. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.

Add carrots, zucchini, bell pepper, broccoli, cauliflower, and mushrooms to the skillet. Cook for 6–8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are slightly tender but not fully cooked. Remove from heat and transfer the vegetables to the prepared casserole dish, spreading them evenly.

Step 2: Make the Creamy Sauce

In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Sprinkle in the flour and whisk continuously for about 1 minute to create a roux. Slowly pour in the milk while whisking to prevent lumps. Add the vegetable broth and continue stirring until the sauce thickens, about 3–4 minutes.

Season the sauce with salt, black pepper, thyme, and oregano. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Once the sauce is smooth and creamy, pour it evenly over the vegetables in the casserole dish. Gently stir to coat all the vegetables.

Step 3: Add the Topping

Sprinkle shredded cheese evenly over the top of the casserole. In a small bowl, mix breadcrumbs with olive oil or melted butter. Scatter the breadcrumb mixture over the cheese layer to create a crispy topping.

Step 4: Bake the Casserole

Place the casserole dish in the preheated oven and bake uncovered for 30–35 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the sauce is bubbling around the edges. If the top browns too quickly, loosely cover with foil during the last 10 minutes.

Remove from the oven and let the casserole rest for 5–10 minutes before serving. This allows the sauce to set slightly and makes serving easier.

Serving Suggestions

Vegetable casserole can be served as a main dish or as a hearty side. Pair it with a fresh green salad for a light meal, or serve it alongside rice, quinoa, or mashed potatoes for extra comfort. It also works well with roasted chicken or grilled fish for those who want to add protein to the plate.

Storage and Reheating

Leftover vegetable casserole stores well, making it great for meal prep.

Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Freezer: Freeze individual portions for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheating: Warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) or in the microwave until heated through.

Tips and Variations

Make it vegan: Use plant-based milk, dairy-free butter, and vegan cheese.
Add protein: Stir in cooked lentils, chickpeas, or white beans before baking.
Extra flavor: Add a pinch of paprika or a splash of soy sauce to the sauce.
Seasonal vegetables: Swap in spinach, green beans, sweet potatoes, or peas depending on the season.

Final Thoughts

This vegetable casserole is a reliable, comforting recipe that celebrates the natural flavors of vegetables while bringing them together in a creamy, baked dish. It’s easy enough for busy weeknights yet impressive enough for guests. With its flexibility and wholesome ingredients, this casserole is sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection.