Introduction

This Cheesy Vegetable Casserole is a comforting, flavorful dish that brings together tender vegetables and rich cheese sauce. Inspired by my grandmother’s magic touch, it’s perfect for a family dinner or potluck. Creamy, cheesy, and topped with a golden crunchy crust, it’s sure to please both kids and adults alike.

A thick slice of layered casserole sits on a white plate with a smooth edge, placed on a white marbled surface. The dish has four visible layers: the top layer is golden brown, crispy melted cheese with small green herb bits sprinkled on it; below this is a creamy white sauce mixed with bits of vegetables and herbs, slightly oozing out; the third layer has chunky mixed vegetables including bright green broccoli and orange carrot cubes; the bottom layer shows more of the creamy cheese with potatoes or pasta pieces, all held together with melted cheese and seasoned with black pepper and herbs. Small chopped green herbs are scattered on the plate and around the dish. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

2 cups broccoli florets
2 cups cauliflower florets
1 cup sliced carrots
1 cup chopped zucchini (optional)
1 cup chopped bell peppers (optional)
2 tablespoons butter
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
2 cups milk
2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
Salt and pepper to taste
1/2 cup breadcrumbs
2 tablespoons melted butter (for topping)

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
Step 2: Blanch or steam the broccoli, cauliflower, and carrots until just tender. If using frozen vegetables, pat them dry to remove excess moisture.
Step 3: In a saucepan, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for about 1 minute to create a roux.
Step 4: Gradually pour in the milk while whisking constantly, cooking until the sauce thickens.
Step 5: Remove the sauce from heat and stir in the cheddar, mozzarella, garlic powder, nutmeg, salt, and pepper until the cheese melts and the sauce is smooth.
Step 6: Layer the prepared vegetables evenly in the baking dish.
Step 7: Pour the cheese sauce over the vegetables and gently fold to coat them evenly.
Step 8: In a small bowl, combine the breadcrumbs with 2 tablespoons of melted butter, then sprinkle this mixture over the casserole.
Step 9: Top the casserole with the grated Parmesan cheese.
Step 10: Bake uncovered for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and the topping is golden brown.
Step 11: Let the casserole rest for 10 minutes before serving to allow it to set.

Tips & Variations

You can add cooked chicken for a heartier version or substitute different cheeses like Gruyère or Monterey Jack for varied flavors.
To make it gluten-free, use gluten-free flour and breadcrumbs.
Make sure to pat frozen vegetables dry to avoid soggy casserole.
For extra flavor, sprinkle some fresh herbs like thyme or parsley on top before serving.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat portions in the microwave or oven until warmed through. You can prepare the casserole up to 2 days ahead and refrigerate before baking. For freezing, assemble the casserole without the breadcrumb topping, freeze it covered, and bake directly from thawed with toppings added fresh.

How to Serve

A thick square piece of vegetable lasagna sits on a white plate with a thin gold rim, placed on a white marbled surface. The lasagna has four visible layers: the top layer is golden brown with a slightly crispy texture and sprinkled with green herbs; below it is a creamy white melted cheese layer mixed with green broccoli pieces; the third layer shows melted cheese covering bright orange carrot chunks and yellow corn kernels; the bottom layer contains a soft mixture of vegetables with visible carrots and small green herbs. Some chopped green herbs and a small broccoli floret decorate the plate beside the lasagna, adding a fresh touch. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use other vegetables in this casserole?

Yes, feel free to swap or add vegetables like green beans, peas, or mushrooms based on your preferences.

How do I prevent the casserole from becoming watery?

Make sure to blanch and drain the vegetables well, especially if using frozen ones, and pat them dry to remove excess moisture before mixing with the cheese sauce.