Sunday Baked Vegetable Casserole

Name: Sunday Baked Vegetable Casserole
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h 5 min
Yield: 8 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups of chopped broccoli; 2 cups of chopped carrots; 2 cups of bell peppers, chopped; 1 cup of corn kernels; 1 cup of chopped onion; 2 cloves of garlic, minced; 1 cup of heavy cream; 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese; 1 cup of breadcrumbs; 2 tablespoons of olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 teaspoon of dried Italian herbs

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

I absolutely love making this Sunday Baked Vegetable Casserole as a way to celebrate the weekend with family and friends. The combination of fresh vegetables layered with creamy sauce and topped with crispy breadcrumbs never fails to impress. Not only is it delicious, but it also allows me to use up leftovers from the week. As the casserole bakes, the aroma fills the kitchen, creating a warm, inviting atmosphere that brings everyone together. Trust me; this recipe is a perfect choice for your next Sunday gathering!

Created by

Daisy Webb

Last updated on 2026-01-13T18:28:14.673Z

One Sunday, I decided to experiment with whatever vegetables I had in my fridge, and that’s how this casserole came to life. I learned that roasting the vegetables beforehand brings out their natural sweetness, enhancing the overall flavor of the dish. By creating layers of colorful veggies, I added a visual appeal that kept my family returning for seconds!

What truly makes this casserole shine is the cheesy, creamy sauce that binds it all together. I discovered through trial and error that a blend of cream and cheese creates an irresistible creamy texture. Each bite is a harmony of flavors that makes this dish not just a meal but a memorable experience with loved ones.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        A colorful mix of your favorite seasonal vegetables
Creaminess that balances perfectly with crispy topping
Versatile enough to customize with available ingredients

      

Maximizing Freshness

Choosing the freshest seasonal vegetables can significantly enhance the flavor of your casserole. When selecting ingredients like broccoli, carrots, and bell peppers, look for vibrant colors and firm textures. This not only ensures a more appealing dish but also contributes to a richer taste. If you're using frozen vegetables, ensure they are thawed and drained well to avoid excess moisture in the casserole, which could lead to a soggy outcome.

Incorporating a variety of vegetables not only adds flavor but also boosts the nutritional value of your meal. For instance, if you have zucchini or squash on hand, they make excellent additions. Substituting corn for peas or adding a layer of eggplant can create a beautiful and colorful presentation. The key is to maintain a balance in flavors and textures; this versatility allows you to work with what you have while maintaining the recipe's integrity.

Tips for Creaminess

The heavy cream in this recipe is essential for achieving that luscious, creamy texture. If you're looking for a lighter option, consider using half-and-half or whole milk, but note that the overall richness will be reduced. Alternatively, for a vegan option, you can substitute coconut cream or a cashew cream blend, keeping in mind that this will impart its own distinct flavor to the casserole.

To ensure your cheese sauce is perfectly smooth, heat the cream gently and add the cheese slowly while stirring continuously. This helps prevent the cheese from clumping. Once melted, the sauce should be glossy. If it thickens too much, add a splash of milk to loosen it. Remember to reserve a bit of cheese for topping to create that irresistible golden crust.

Ingredients

Casserole Ingredients

2 cups of chopped broccoli
2 cups of chopped carrots
2 cups of bell peppers, chopped
1 cup of corn kernels
1 cup of chopped onion
2 cloves of garlic, minced
1 cup of heavy cream
1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese
1 cup of breadcrumbs
2 tablespoons of olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
1 teaspoon of dried Italian herbs

Mix the ingredients well and prepare them for baking.

Instructions

Prepare the Vegetables

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). In a large bowl, combine the chopped broccoli, carrots, bell peppers, corn, onion, and garlic. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt, pepper, and Italian herbs. Toss until fully coated.

Roast the Vegetables

Spread the vegetable mixture onto a baking sheet and roast in the preheated oven for 20 minutes, until they are slightly tender. Remove from the oven and let cool slightly.

Make the Sauce

In a medium saucepan over medium heat, stir together the heavy cream and half of the shredded cheddar cheese until melted and smooth. Remove from heat.

Assemble the Casserole

In a greased baking dish, layer the roasted vegetables and pour the cheese sauce over them. Sprinkle the remaining cheese and breadcrumbs on top for added texture.

Bake

Bake in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for 25 minutes or until golden brown and bubbling. Let it cool slightly before serving.

Enjoy your homemade casserole with fresh herbs on top!

Pro Tips

Feel free to substitute any vegetables you have on hand. This recipe is very forgiving and allows for personalization according to your taste.

Serving Suggestions

This casserole is delicious served on its own, but it can also complement a variety of dishes. Pair it with a light green salad dressed with a simple vinaigrette for a complete meal. Alternatively, serving it alongside grilled chicken or fish adds protein and balances the meal. For a heartier option, consider pairing it with crusty bread to soak up the creamy sauce.

You can also elevate the presentation by garnishing the baked casserole with fresh herbs such as basil or parsley. This not only adds a pop of color but also enhances the flavor profile. A sprinkle of red pepper flakes can introduce a subtle heat that contrasts beautifully with the creamy vegetables.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

One of the beauties of this casserole is that it can be made ahead of time. Simply prepare the dish up to the baking stage, cover it tightly with plastic wrap or foil, and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. When you're ready to bake, remove it from the refrigerator and let it sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes before popping it in the oven to ensure even cooking.

If you have leftovers, they can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for about 3-4 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or bake in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, ensuring to cover the dish to retain moisture. This casserole also freezes well; freeze it unbaked, and when you're ready to enjoy it, just bake straight from the freezer, allowing extra time for cooking.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I prepare this casserole in advance?

Yes! You can assemble it a day ahead and just bake it when ready to serve.

→ What can I serve with the casserole?

This casserole pairs well with a fresh salad or crusty bread.

→ Can I make this dish vegan?

Absolutely! Use dairy-free cream and cheese alternatives to keep it vegan.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days.