Vegetable Casserole Recipe

When it comes to hearty, wholesome comfort food, few dishes hit the mark like a vegetable casserole. It’s warm, flavorful, filling, and incredibly flexible — making it a favorite for both weeknight dinners and special gatherings. Plus, it’s an easy way to pack a variety of nutrients into one satisfying meal.

This vegetable casserole recipe combines vibrant seasonal veggies, a creamy or cheesy sauce (optional), and a crispy topping for that perfect balance of textures. Whether you’re feeding a vegetarian family, meal prepping, or using up leftover vegetables, this dish is endlessly adaptable.

Best of all, it’s budget-friendly, one-dish, and freezer-friendly, meaning less cleanup and more time enjoying a wholesome, delicious meal. Serve it as a main course or a hearty side — either way, it’s guaranteed to please.

⏱️ Cooking Time and Serving

• Prep Time: 15 minutes

• Cook Time: 40–45 minutes

• Total Time: ~1 hour

• Servings: 6–8 servings

• Serving Size: ~1 cup

📝 Ingredients

Vegetables (feel free to substitute):

• 2 cups chopped broccoli florets

• 1 cup diced carrots

• 1 cup chopped cauliflower

• 1 cup green beans, trimmed and cut

• 1 small zucchini, chopped

• ½ onion, diced

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

Sauce/Base:

• 1 cup shredded cheddar or mozzarella (optional)

• 1 can (10 oz) cream of mushroom or cream of celery soup (or homemade)

• ½ cup sour cream or plain Greek yogurt

• Salt & pepper, to taste

• ½ tsp dried thyme or Italian seasoning

• ¼ cup vegetable broth or milk (for thinning sauce, if needed)

Topping:

• ½ cup breadcrumbs or crushed crackers

• 2 tbsp melted butter or olive oil

• 2 tbsp grated Parmesan (optional)

👨‍🍳 How to Make Vegetable Casserole

Step 1: Preheat and Prep

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

2. Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.

Step 2: Steam or Blanch Veggies

3. Lightly steam or blanch the broccoli, carrots, cauliflower, green beans, and zucchini for 3–5 minutes until just tender. Drain and set aside.

Step 3: Make the Sauce

4. In a large bowl, mix the cream soup, sour cream (or yogurt), garlic, onion, seasonings, and shredded cheese if using. Stir until smooth.

5. Add a splash of broth or milk if the mixture is too thick.

Step 4: Combine and Transfer

6. Add the cooked vegetables to the bowl and mix until well coated.

7. Pour the mixture into the prepared casserole dish and spread evenly.

Step 5: Add Topping

8. In a small bowl, mix the breadcrumbs or cracker crumbs with melted butter and Parmesan.

9. Sprinkle the topping evenly over the casserole.

Step 6: Bake

10. Bake uncovered for 35–40 minutes, or until bubbly and golden on top.

11. Let rest for 5–10 minutes before serving.

📝 Notes

• Customizable Veggies: Use what you have — sweet potatoes, spinach, mushrooms, peas, or bell peppers all work great.

• Dairy-Free Option: Use coconut milk yogurt and dairy-free cheese, or skip the cheese altogether.

• Make Ahead: Assemble the casserole ahead of time and refrigerate. Bake when ready to eat.

• Freezer-Friendly: Cool completely, then wrap tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Reheat at 350°F until warmed through.

❓FAQs

Can I use frozen vegetables?
Yes! Thaw and drain them first to avoid excess water in the casserole.

Is this recipe gluten-free?
Not by default, but you can make it gluten-free by using GF cream soup, GF breadcrumbs, and checking all labels.

Can I add protein to make it a full meal?
Definitely. Add cooked shredded chicken, beans, or lentils for a protein boost.

How do I make it vegan?
Use plant-based cream soup, dairy-free yogurt, and skip or replace cheese with nutritional yeast or vegan cheese.

🍽️ Nutrition Facts (Approximate)

Per Serving (1 cup):

Nutritional values vary based on ingredient choices, toppings, and substitutions.

⚠️ Disclaimer

This recipe contains dairy, gluten, and potentially nuts (if added) — common allergens. Always check ingredient labels if you’re cooking for someone with allergies or dietary restrictions. While this vegetable casserole can be part of a balanced diet, enjoy it in moderation, especially if using richer ingredients like cheese or cream-based soups.