Description
This Creamy Winter Vegetable Casserole is a comforting and hearty dish that combines a medley of tender winter vegetables with a rich, cheesy cream of mushroom sauce. Topped with a buttery breadcrumb crust, it bakes to golden perfection and makes a perfect side or vegetarian main during the colder months.
Ingredients
Scale
Vegetables
- 2 cups mixed winter vegetables, such as 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: If using fresh vegetables, steam or blanch them for 3 to 4 minutes until they are just tender, then drain well to remove excess moisture. For frozen vegetables, ensure they are completely thawed and pat dry to prevent soggy casserole.
- Combine Filling Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, add the prepared vegetables, low-fat cream of mushroom soup, milk, shredded cheese, dried thyme, garlic powder, salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Stir thoroughly until all components are evenly coated with the creamy mixture.
- Fill Baking Dish: Transfer the combined vegetable and sauce mixture into the greased baking dish, spreading it out evenly with a spoon or spatula for uniform cooking.
- Add Topping: In a small bowl, mix together the breadcrumbs and melted butter until well combined. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the top of the casserole to create a crisp, golden crust.
- Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake uncovered for 25 to 30 minutes. The casserole is ready when the breadcrumb topping is golden brown and the filling is bubbling around the edges.
- Rest and Serve: Remove the casserole from the oven and allow it to rest for 5 minutes. Serve warm to enjoy the creamy texture and flavorful vegetables.
Notes
- For vegan or dairy-free versions, substitute whole milk with unsweetened plant-based milk and use vegan cheese.
- Adjust the seasoning according to taste; adding a pinch of nutmeg can enhance the creamy filling.
- To add extra protein, consider mixing in cooked quinoa or lentils before baking.
- Use panko breadcrumbs for a crunchier topping or regular breadcrumbs for a finer texture.
- This casserole can be prepared ahead of time and refrigerated before baking. Add an extra 5–10 minutes to baking time if baking from cold.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: winter vegetable casserole, creamy casserole, baked vegetable dish, comfort food, healthy casserole, low-fat casserole, cheesy casserole
