Cheesy Vegetable Bread Bake

Ingredients

For the vegetable filling

• 8–10 bread rolls or 12–16 slices of bread

• 2 cups finely shredded cabbage

• 1 cup grated carrot

• 1 small onion, finely chopped

• 1 small capsicum, finely chopped

• 1 cup sweet corn (optional)

• 1 cup grated mozzarella cheese

• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

• 1/2 teaspoon salt, or to taste

• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

• 1 tablespoon butter or cooking oil

For the creamy white sauce

• 3 tablespoons butter

• 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour

• 2 cups milk

• 1/2 teaspoon salt

• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

• 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder

• 1/2 cup grated mozzarella or cheddar cheese

For the topping

• 1–1½ cups grated mozzarella cheese

• 1 tablespoon melted butter

• 1 teaspoon dried oregano or mixed herbs

• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh coriander or parsley

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the vegetables

1. Heat 1 tablespoon butter or oil in a pan over medium heat.

2. Add the chopped onion and cook for 2–3 minutes until softened.

3. Add the capsicum, shredded cabbage, carrot, and sweet corn.

4. Season with salt, black pepper, and garlic powder.

5. Cook for 4–6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables soften slightly but retain some texture.

6. Remove from the heat and allow the mixture to cool slightly.

Step 2: Make the creamy white sauce

1. Melt 3 tablespoons of butter in a saucepan over medium-low heat.

2. Add the flour and whisk continuously for 1–2 minutes.

3. Gradually pour in the milk while whisking to prevent lumps.

4. Cook for 4–6 minutes, stirring constantly, until the sauce becomes smooth and thick.

5. Add salt, black pepper, and garlic powder.

6. Stir in 1/2 cup grated cheese until melted.

7. Remove from the heat. The sauce should be thick enough to coat a spoon but still pour easily.

Step 3: Prepare the bread

1. Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).

2. Lightly grease a baking dish with butter.

3. Arrange the bread slices or halved bread rolls in the dish.

4. If using thick bread, lightly toast it first to help prevent it from becoming soggy.

Step 4: Assemble the bake

1. Spread the prepared vegetable mixture evenly over the bread.

2. Sprinkle 1 cup of grated mozzarella over the vegetables.

3. Slowly pour the creamy white sauce over the entire dish, ensuring the filling is well covered.

4. Add the remaining mozzarella cheese on top.

5. Brush lightly with melted butter and sprinkle with oregano or mixed herbs.

Step 5: Bake until golden

1. Place the dish in the preheated oven.

2. Bake for 25–35 minutes, until the top is golden brown and bubbling and the center is thoroughly heated.

3. If needed, broil for another 1–3 minutes to brown the cheese, watching carefully to prevent burning.

4. Remove from the oven and rest for 5–10 minutes before cutting into squares.

5. Garnish with fresh coriander or parsley and serve warm.

Tips for the best results

• Extra cheesy: Add a little cheddar along with the mozzarella.

• More protein: Add cooked shredded chicken or paneer to the vegetable filling.

• Spicy version: Add chopped green chilies or chili flakes.

• Crispy top: Sprinkle a little Parmesan cheese over the mozzarella before baking.

• Avoid soggy bread: Use day-old bread and avoid making the white sauce too thin.

Nutrition information

Estimated values per serving, assuming 8 servings and the ingredients above.

Allergen information: Contains wheat/gluten and dairy. Check ingredient labels for other allergens.

Serving suggestion: Serve hot with tomato ketchup, garlic dip, or a fresh green salad for a delicious and filling meal.