Creamy Winter Vegetable Casserole Recipe
This Creamy Winter Vegetable Casserole is a comforting and hearty dish perfect for chilly days. Combining a medley of nutritious winter vegetables with a creamy mushroom soup base, melted cheese, and a buttery breadcrumb topping, this casserole offers rich flavors and satisfying textures. It’s baked to golden perfection for a warm and inviting meal ideal as a side or a vegetarian main.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
Scale
Vegetables
- 2 cups mixed winter vegetables (diced carrots, parsnips, cauliflower, broccoli, or Brussels sprouts)
Filling
- 1 can (10.5 oz) low-fat cream of mushroom soup
- 1/2 cup whole milk or unsweetened plant-based milk
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar or Gruyère cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Topping
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs, regular or panko style
- 1 tablespoon melted butter
Instructions
- Prepare Oven and Baking Dish: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a medium-sized baking dish with butter or oil to prevent sticking.
- Prep Vegetables: Either steam or blanch your fresh winter vegetables for 3 to 4 minutes until they become just tender. If using frozen vegetables, thaw them completely and pat dry to remove excess moisture.
- Combine Filling Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, add the prepared vegetables along with the low-fat cream of mushroom soup, milk, shredded cheese, dried thyme, garlic powder, salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Stir thoroughly to coat all pieces evenly with the creamy mixture.
- Fill Baking Dish: Transfer this vegetable mixture into your greased baking dish. Spread it out evenly using a spoon or spatula to create a uniform layer.
- Add Topping: In a small bowl, mix the breadcrumbs with melted butter until well combined. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the top of the casserole to form a crunchy topping.
- Bake: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake uncovered for 25 to 30 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the topping turns golden brown and the filling is bubbling around the edges.
- Rest and Serve: Remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest for about 5 minutes. Serve warm for a comforting meal.
Notes
- You can customize the vegetable mix based on what’s available seasonally or your personal preference.
- Using panko breadcrumbs will result in a crispier topping.
- For a dairy-free version, substitute the milk with unsweetened plant-based milk and use vegan cheese.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven for best texture.
- Adding a pinch of nutmeg to the filling can enhance the flavor subtly.
Keywords: winter vegetable casserole, creamy vegetable bake, healthy vegetarian casserole, baked vegetable dish, easy casserole recipe
