This vegetable casserole is a warm and yummy dish packed with colorful veggies like carrots, broccoli, and bell peppers. Topped with crispy cheese, it’s a feast for the eyes and tummy!
When I make this, my family always comes back for seconds. It’s so easy to throw together, and I love knowing we’re eating our greens without even trying! 🥦
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Mixed Vegetables: Broccoli, cauliflower, and carrots work well together. If you prefer or have others on hand, zucchini, green beans, or corn can also be great substitutes.
Onion: A medium onion adds depth to the dish. If you want a milder flavor, consider using a sweet onion like Vidalia. Green onions can also work for a more delicate taste.
Bell Peppers: You can choose any color bell pepper you like! Red, yellow, or green all bring different flavors. If you’re looking for a kick, try using jalapeños or hot peppers instead.
Cream of Mushroom Soup: This gives creaminess to the casserole. If you’re avoiding canned products, homemade cream of mushroom soup is easy and delicious. You could also use cream of chicken or a vegan cream alternative if needed.
Sour Cream: I really like the tanginess it brings. Greek yogurt makes a great substitute for a healthier option. You can also use a dairy-free alternative if you’re going plant-based.
Cheese: Cheddar and mozzarella are my favorites for this recipe. For a twist, try using gouda or pepper jack for added flavor. Vegan cheese can also work if you’re looking to make it dairy-free.
Breadcrumbs: This is optional, but I love that extra crunch! If you want something gluten-free, crushed cornflakes or gluten-free breadcrumbs are great choices.
How Do I Ensure My Casserole Is Creamy and Delicious?
To get a creamy casserole, the key is mixing the ingredients well and ensuring even distribution of the creamy components. Here’s how I do it:
- Sauté your veggies until just tender, as this helps prevent excess moisture in the casserole.
- Combine the sautéed vegetables with your creamy ingredients like soup and sour cream in a large bowl. Stir well to coat everything.
- Layer the dish evenly when transferring to the casserole dish, so every bite is packed with flavor.
Don’t rush the baking; the covered portion keeps moisture in while the uncovered part helps brown the top, creating a nice contrast of textures. Letting it sit before serving allows the casserole to firm up a bit. Enjoy!
How to Make Vegetable Casserole?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Vegetable Base:
- 2 cups mixed vegetables (broccoli, cauliflower, carrots)
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 1 cup bell peppers, diced (any color)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Casserole Mixture:
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
For Topping:
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (optional for topping)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme or Italian seasoning
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This vegetable casserole will take about 15 minutes for prep and around 40-45 minutes total baking time. You’ll spend a bit of time chopping veggies and mixing them together, plus some time in the oven for everything to come together and bubble nicely! Perfect for a cozy meal.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This helps ensure that your casserole cooks evenly and the cheese gets nice and bubbly.
2. Sauté the Vegetables:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and diced bell peppers, sautéing them until they are softened, about 5 minutes. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute. Your kitchen will smell delicious!
3. Mix the Casserole Ingredients:
In a large bowl, combine the mixed vegetables, sautéed onion and bell pepper mixture, cream of mushroom soup, sour cream, half of the cheddar cheese, thyme, salt, and pepper. Mix everything together thoroughly so all the veggies are coated with the creamy goodness.
4. Prepare for Baking:
Transfer the hearty vegetable mixture into a greased 9×13 inch casserole dish. Spread it out evenly so every bite has a good mix of flavors.
5. Add the Cheesy Topping:
Sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese, mozzarella cheese, and Parmesan cheese over the top of your vegetable mixture for a cheesy delight. If you’re using breadcrumbs for added crunch, sprinkle those on top as well.
6. Bake the Casserole:
Cover the casserole with aluminum foil and pop it into the preheated oven. Bake for 25 minutes to start. After this time, remove the foil and let it bake for an additional 15-20 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, with a nice golden-brown top.
7. Serve and Enjoy!
Once it’s out of the oven, let the casserole sit for a few minutes before serving. This waiting period helps it set up a bit. Feel free to garnish it with fresh chopped parsley for a pop of color. Enjoy your delicious vegetable casserole!
Can I Use Frozen Vegetables Instead of Fresh?
Absolutely! Frozen mixed vegetables work great in this casserole. Just add them directly to the mixture without thawing. They may release a bit more moisture, so consider draining any excess liquid before adding them to the bowl for the best texture.
What Can I Substitute for Cream of Mushroom Soup?
If you prefer a different base, you can substitute the cream of mushroom soup with cream of chicken soup or a homemade white sauce. For a healthier option, try using Greek yogurt or a dairy-free cream alternative, but adjust the seasoning to ensure flavor balance.
How Can I Make This Casserole Vegan?
To make this dish vegan, replace the cream of mushroom soup with a plant-based alternative and use vegan sour cream. For the cheese, look for vegan cheese options that melt well. You can also skip the cheese altogether and add more spices for flavor!
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) covered with foil until warmed through, or microwave individual portions until hot. Enjoy your delicious leftovers!
