Here’s a detailed recipe for your Hearty Veggie Casserole — warm, comforting, and packed with wholesome flavors. 🥕🍅🧀
🥘 Hearty Veggie Casserole – A Comforting, Wholesome Delight 🌿
Introduction
This Hearty Veggie Casserole is the ultimate comfort food for anyone who loves a warm, nourishing meal full of fresh vegetables, herbs, and cheesy goodness. Baked to golden perfection, it combines tender roasted veggies, creamy sauce, and just the right touch of seasoning. Perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or meal prep, this casserole delivers cozy home-cooked flavor in every bite. It’s vegetarian-friendly, customizable, and bursting with nutrients — truly a dish that warms both heart and soul!
Ingredients (Serves 4–6)
Vegetables:
- 2 medium potatoes, diced
- 2 carrots, sliced
- 1 zucchini, chopped
- 1 red bell pepper, chopped
- 1 cup broccoli florets
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Sauce & Seasoning:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter
- 2 tablespoons flour (or cornstarch for gluten-free)
- 1 ½ cups milk or plant-based milk
- ½ cup shredded mozzarella or cheddar cheese
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
Topping:
- ½ cup breadcrumbs (or crushed oats for a healthy twist)
- 2 tablespoons grated parmesan or nutritional yeast
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven:
Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a baking dish. - Cook the Vegetables:
Steam or parboil the potatoes, carrots, and broccoli for 5–7 minutes until slightly tender. Drain and set aside. - Prepare the Sauce:
In a saucepan, heat olive oil or butter. Whisk in flour and cook for 1 minute. Slowly add milk, whisking until smooth and thickened. Stir in cheese, garlic, thyme, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. - Assemble the Casserole:
Combine all the vegetables in the baking dish. Pour the creamy sauce over them and mix gently to coat evenly. - Add the Topping:
In a small bowl, mix breadcrumbs, parmesan, and olive oil. Sprinkle over the casserole. - Bake:
Bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes, until the top is golden and crispy. - Serve:
Let cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy it as a main dish or alongside grilled chicken, fish, or fresh salad.
Tips & Variations
- Add spinach, mushrooms, or corn for extra texture and color.
- For a vegan version, use plant-based milk and vegan cheese.
- Leftovers reheat beautifully — store in the fridge for up to 3 days.
