Comfort: Homemade Vegetable Casserole Recipe

This delicious and wholesome vegetable casserole is the perfect combination of flavor and nutrition. Packed with vibrant veggies, rich seasonings, and a creamy, cheesy topping, this dish is a delightful addition to any meal. Whether you’re serving it as a main course or a side dish, this casserole brings warmth and comfort to the table. Easy to prepare and customizable with your favorite vegetables, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite.

Ingredients

  • 2 cups chopped carrots
  • 1 cup chopped bell peppers (red, yellow, or green)
  • 1 cup chopped zucchini
  • 1 cup chopped broccoli florets
  • 1 cup chopped cauliflower
  • 1 cup corn kernels
  • 1 cup green beans, chopped
  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or a mix)
  • 1 cup milk
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1/2 teaspoon chili flakes (optional)
  • 1/2 cup bread crumbs
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped

Instructions

  1. Preheat the Oven – Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a baking dish with butter or olive oil.
  2. Prepare the Vegetables – Wash, peel, and chop all the vegetables into small bite-sized pieces for even cooking.
  3. Sauté the Aromatics – Heat olive oil and butter in a large pan over medium heat. Add chopped onions and garlic, and sauté until fragrant and golden brown.
  4. Cook the Vegetables – Add the carrots, bell peppers, zucchini, broccoli, cauliflower, green beans, and corn to the pan. Sauté for 5–7 minutes until they start to soften.
  5. Make the Creamy Sauce – Sprinkle flour over the vegetables and stir well. Slowly add the milk and heavy cream, stirring continuously to create a smooth sauce.
  6. Season the Mixture – Add salt, black pepper, paprika, oregano, thyme, and chili flakes (if using). Mix well to evenly coat the vegetables with the creamy sauce.
  7. Add Cheese – Stir in half of the shredded cheese and let it melt into the mixture, creating a rich and cheesy base.
  8. Transfer to Baking Dish – Pour the vegetable mixture into the greased baking dish, spreading it evenly.
  9. Prepare the Topping – In a small bowl, mix bread crumbs, Parmesan cheese, and the remaining shredded cheese. Sprinkle this topping over the casserole.
  10. Bake the Casserole – Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25–30 minutes or until the top is golden brown and crispy.
  11. Garnish and Serve – Remove from the oven, sprinkle with fresh chopped parsley, and let it rest for 5 minutes before serving.
  12. Enjoy – Serve hot and enjoy this delicious, comforting vegetable casserole as a standalone meal or a side dish with your favorite main course.

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