Creamy Cheesy Garlic Vegetable Casserole

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Preparation: 20 minutes

• Cooking: 25–30 minutes

• Total time: 50 minutes

• Servings: 6

• Difficulty: Easy

Ingredients

For the vegetables

• 3 cups broccoli florets

• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

• 1 red bell pepper, diced

• 1 yellow bell pepper, diced

• 1 medium zucchini, diced

• 1 cup cauliflower florets

• ½ cup sweet corn (optional)

• ½ teaspoon salt

• ½ teaspoon black pepper

For the creamy cheese sauce

• 2 tablespoons butter

• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour

• 1½ cups milk

• ½ cup heavy cream

• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

• ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese

• 3 cloves garlic, minced

• ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning

• ¼ teaspoon paprika

• Salt and black pepper to taste

• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley or dill

For topping

• ½ cup shredded mozzarella

• ¼ cup cheddar cheese

• Fresh parsley for garnish

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Vegetables

1. Wash all vegetables thoroughly.

2. Cut broccoli and cauliflower into bite-sized florets.

3. Dice the bell peppers and zucchini.

4. Cut cherry tomatoes in half.

5. Drain excess water from washed vegetables.

Step 2: Prepare the Baking Dish

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

2. Lightly grease a 9 × 13-inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray.

3. Arrange broccoli, cauliflower, zucchini, and bell peppers evenly.

4. Add cherry tomatoes and sweet corn.

Step 3: Make the Creamy Garlic Sauce

1. Melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat.

2. Add minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds.

3. Stir in flour and cook for approximately 1 minute.

4. Slowly pour in milk while whisking continuously.

5. Add heavy cream.

6. Cook for 3–5 minutes until the sauce thickens.

7. Add mozzarella and cheddar cheese.

8. Stir until melted and smooth.

9. Add Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and black pepper.

10. Mix in fresh parsley or dill.

Step 4: Combine the Vegetables and Sauce

1. Pour the creamy cheese sauce evenly over the vegetables.

2. Gently toss or stir to coat the vegetables.

3. Make sure the sauce reaches the bottom of the baking dish.

Step 5: Add the Cheese Topping

1. Sprinkle shredded mozzarella over the vegetables.

2. Add cheddar cheese.

3. Spread evenly for a delicious cheesy crust.

Step 6: Bake

1. Cover the dish loosely with aluminum foil.

2. Bake for 15 minutes.

3. Remove the foil.

4. Bake another 10–15 minutes until the vegetables are tender and the cheese is bubbling and golden.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

1. Remove the casserole from the oven.

2. Let it rest for 5 minutes.

3. Sprinkle fresh parsley on top.

4. Serve warm and enjoy!

Nutritional Information

Estimated per serving, based on 6 servings.

Nut Information (Q/S)

Allergy information: Contains milk, cheese, and wheat flour. Check packaged ingredients for possible nut cross-contact.

Helpful Tips

1. Do not overcook the vegetables before baking; they should remain slightly firm.

2. Use freshly shredded cheese for a smoother sauce.

3. Add mushrooms or spinach for extra vegetables.

4. For extra flavor, add a little Parmesan cheese.

5. If you prefer a lighter version, substitute half-and-half for heavy cream.

6. For a golden top, broil for 1–2 minutes at the end, watching carefully.

Storage Instructions

• Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 3–4 days.

• Freezer: Freeze for up to 2 months.

• Reheating: Warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.

• Microwave: Reheat individual portions in 1-minute intervals.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this delicious casserole with:

• Garlic bread

• Grilled chicken

• Roasted potatoes

• Fresh green salad

• Steamed rice

• Grilled fish

Final Result: A beautiful, colorful vegetable casserole with tender broccoli, juicy cherry tomatoes, sweet bell peppers, and a rich garlic cheese sauce. Every bite is creamy, cheesy, and full of delicious flavor!