Description
This Cozy Creamy Vegetable Casserole is a comforting dish combining various vegetables in a creamy cheese sauce.
Ingredients
Scale
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 2 cups cauliflower florets
- 1 cup chopped carrots
- 1 cup diced yellow bell pepper
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups whole milk (warm)
- 1/2 cup heavy cream (optional)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1 1/2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (preferably panko)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil or melted butter
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Start by preparing your vegetables. To ensure they are tender and vibrant, steam or blanch the broccoli, cauliflower, carrots, and bell peppers for about 4–5 minutes. You want them to be just tender enough so they still hold their shape once baked. Once ready, drain the vegetables and set them aside while you prepare the cheese sauce.
- In a large saucepan, melt the unsalted butter over medium heat. Next, whisk in the all-purpose flour and let it cook for about 1–2 minutes. This mixture is called a roux and will help thicken your cheese sauce. Be sure to stir continuously to avoid burning the flour.
- Gradually begin adding warm milk into the roux, whisking constantly to keep the sauce smooth. If you’re including heavy cream for a richer taste, add it at this time. Continue to cook the mixture for approximately 5 minutes or until it thickens to the desired consistency. Once thickened, stir in garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, salt, and pepper. Finally, fold in the shredded cheddar and grated Parmesan cheese, mixing until melted and creamy.
- In a large bowl or suitable baking dish, combine the cooked vegetables with the cheese sauce, ensuring each piece is coated generously. Transfer this mélange into the same baking dish if you haven’t yet done so. For a delightful crunchy texture, mix panko breadcrumbs with olive oil or melted butter and sprinkle them evenly over the top of the casserole.
- Place the casserole in your preheated oven and bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes. Keep an eye until the topping is a beautiful golden brown and the edges are bubbling, indicating it is warmly done. Once baked, let it rest for about 5 minutes. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and flavor before serving.
Notes
This casserole can be made a day ahead and refrigerated, or frozen for later use.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
Nutrition
- Calories: 400 kcal
- Sodium: 600 mg
- Protein: 15 g