introduction
This creamy winter vegetable casserole is warm, simple, and full of soft vegetables in a cheesy sauce. It uses broccoli, carrots, and cauliflower with a creamy cheese sauce and a crunchy breadcrumb top. If you like casseroles, you might also enjoy a baked chicken version found at BBQ Ranch Chicken Casserole.
why make this recipe
Make this casserole when you want an easy, comforting side or a light main dish. It is good for cold nights and works well for family meals or guests. The vegetables stay tender but not mushy because you blanch them first. If you want tips on preparing vegetables before baking, see a guide on how to boil root vegetables before roasting.
how to make Creamy Winter Vegetable Casserole
Preheat the oven and blanch the vegetables so they cook evenly. Make a simple white sauce with butter, flour, milk, and seasonings. Stir in cheddar and Parmesan until the sauce is smooth. Mix the sauce with the drained vegetables, place in a greased dish, top with breadcrumbs, and bake until bubbly and golden.
For another vegetable-forward casserole idea with a bold twist, check this buffalo chicken cauliflower casserole to inspire different flavors.
Ingredients :
- 2 cups Broccoli florets
- 1 1/2 cups Carrots
- 2 cups Cauliflower florets
- 1/2 tsp Garlic powder
- 1 tbsp Parsley
- 2 tbsp All purpose flour
- 1/4 tsp Nutmeg, ground
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup Breadcrumbs
- 2 tbsp Butter
- 1 cup Cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- 2 cups Whole milk
Directions :
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large pot, bring water to a boil and blanch broccoli, carrots, and cauliflower for 3-4 minutes until tender-crisp. Drain and set aside.
- In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Stir in flour, garlic powder, nutmeg, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1-2 minutes.
- Gradually whisk in whole milk, bringing to a simmer while stirring until the sauce thickens.
- Remove from heat and stir in cheddar and parmesan cheese until melted.
- Combine vegetables with the cheese sauce and mix well.
- Transfer to a greased casserole dish, top with breadcrumbs, and bake for 25-30 minutes until bubbly and golden on top.
how to serve Creamy Winter Vegetable Casserole
Serve hot straight from the oven. This casserole pairs well with roasted chicken, crusty bread, or a green salad. Let it rest 5 minutes before serving so the sauce settles.
how to store Creamy Winter Vegetable Casserole
Cool to room temperature, then cover and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, about 15-20 minutes. You can freeze portions in airtight containers for up to 2 months; thaw in the fridge before reheating.
tips to make Creamy Winter Vegetable Casserole
- Do not overcook vegetables when blanching; stop at tender-crisp.
- Use freshly grated cheddar and Parmesan for a smoother sauce.
- Warm the milk slightly before adding to the roux to avoid lumps.
- For a crispier top, broil the casserole for 1-2 minutes at the end.
- For a flavor change, try adding cooked bacon or a pinch of mustard powder.
variation (if any)
- Add cooked diced chicken or ham for more protein.
- Swap cheddar for Gruyère or Monterey Jack for a different taste.
- Stir in frozen peas or corn for extra color and sweetness.
- Make it vegetarian by using vegetable broth and skipping any meat additions.
FAQs
Q: Can I use low-fat milk instead of whole milk?
A: Yes, you can, but the sauce will be slightly thinner and less rich.
Q: Can I make this ahead?
A: Yes. Assemble the casserole, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. You may need a few extra minutes in the oven.
Q: Can I use other vegetables?
A: Yes. Green beans, zucchini, or peas work well. Adjust blanching time so nothing becomes too soft.
Q: How do I prevent the sauce from getting grainy?
A: Whisk the milk in slowly and keep the heat moderate. Remove from heat before all cheese melts and stir until smooth.
Q: Can I make this gluten-free?
A: Yes. Use a gluten-free flour blend and gluten-free breadcrumbs.
Conclusion
This creamy winter vegetable casserole is a simple dish that warms the table with cheesy comfort and tender vegetables. For a different creamy vegetable idea, see this Creamy Vegetable Casserole | Easy Vegetarian Side Dish – Diethood. For another winter vegetable recipe with bright flavors, read Creamy Winter Vegetable Stew with Mustard + Lemon – Amy Chaplin.
Print
Creamy Winter Vegetable Casserole
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A warm and comforting casserole filled with tender vegetables in a creamy cheese sauce, topped with crunchy breadcrumbs.
Ingredients
- 2 cups Broccoli florets
- 1 1/2 cups Carrots
- 2 cups Cauliflower florets
- 1/2 tsp Garlic powder
- 1 tbsp Parsley
- 2 tbsp All purpose flour
- 1/4 tsp Nutmeg, ground
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup Breadcrumbs
- 2 tbsp Butter
- 1 cup Cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- 2 cups Whole milk
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large pot, bring water to a boil and blanch broccoli, carrots, and cauliflower for 3-4 minutes until tender-crisp. Drain and set aside.
- In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Stir in flour, garlic powder, nutmeg, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1-2 minutes.
- Gradually whisk in whole milk, bringing to a simmer while stirring until the sauce thickens.
- Remove from heat and stir in cheddar and parmesan cheese until melted.
- Combine vegetables with the cheese sauce and mix well.
- Transfer to a greased casserole dish, top with breadcrumbs, and bake for 25-30 minutes until bubbly and golden on top.
Notes
Serve hot with roasted chicken, crusty bread, or a green salad. Let it rest for 5 minutes before serving.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 350mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 12g
- Cholesterol: 50mg
Keywords: vegetable casserole, comforting dish, winter recipe, creamy sauce, cheesy, family-friendly