Creamy Winter Vegetable Casserole Recipe
A comforting and creamy winter vegetable casserole featuring tender cauliflower, broccoli, and carrots in a rich cheese sauce, topped with golden breadcrumbs and fresh parsley. This baked dish is perfect for cozy family dinners during the colder months.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
Scale
Vegetables
- 2 cups cauliflower florets
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 1 1/2 cups sliced carrots
Sauce
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups whole milk (warm)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Topping & Garnish
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs (optional, for topping)
- 1 tablespoon chopped parsley (for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat and prepare baking dish: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking.
- Prepare and steam vegetables: Wash and chop the cauliflower, broccoli, and carrots into bite-sized pieces. Steam them for 5 to 7 minutes until they are just tender but still firm to the bite.
- Make the roux: In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the flour and cook for 1 to 2 minutes, stirring continuously to create a roux and eliminate the raw flour taste.
- Add milk and thicken sauce: Gradually whisk the warm milk into the roux. Continue cooking and whisking until the sauce thickens, about 3 to 5 minutes.
- Season and add cheese: Stir in garlic powder, ground nutmeg, salt, and black pepper. Then add the shredded cheddar cheese and grated Parmesan cheese, stirring until all the cheese has melted and the sauce is smooth.
- Combine vegetables and sauce: Transfer the steamed vegetables to a large bowl. Pour the cheese sauce over the vegetables and gently toss to evenly coat.
- Assemble casserole: Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish. If using, sprinkle the breadcrumbs evenly over the top for added crunch.
- Bake and broil: Bake the casserole for 20 to 25 minutes until bubbly and golden on top. For a crispier topping, broil for an additional 2 to 3 minutes, watching carefully to avoid burning.
- Rest and garnish: Allow the casserole to rest for 5 to 10 minutes after baking. Garnish with chopped parsley before serving warm.
Notes
- Steaming vegetables until just tender helps maintain their vibrant color and texture.
- Using warm milk prevents lumps in the cheese sauce.
- Breadcrumb topping is optional but adds a delightful crunch.
- Broiling at the end should be monitored closely to prevent burning the topping.
- This casserole can be prepared in advance and baked right before serving.
Keywords: winter vegetable casserole, creamy vegetable bake, cheese vegetable casserole, cauliflower broccoli casserole, comfort food, vegetarian casserole
Find it online: https://ricoloranz.com/creamy-winter-vegetable-casserole-recipe/
