Description
Hearty Mexican-inspired baked vegetable casserole brings layers of zesty flavors from roasted peppers, black beans, and melted cheese. Colorful ingredients meld together, creating a comforting meal that satisfies with each delicious, wholesome bite you’ll savor.
Ingredients
Scale
Vegetables:
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 2 cups cauliflower florets
- 2 large carrots, sliced
- 1 zucchini, sliced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
Cheese and Dairy:
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, Gruyere, or a mix)
- 2 cups milk (whole or 2%)
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
Seasonings and Topping:
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ¼ teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- ½ cup breadcrumbs (panko or regular)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil or melted butter
Instructions
- Prepare the kitchen workspace and gather necessary cooking tools and ingredients. Activate the oven to 375F (190C) and apply a light coating of grease to a 9×13-inch baking vessel.
- Transform raw vegetables through gentle thermal treatment. Immerse broccoli, cauliflower, and carrots into simmering water for approximately 3-4 minutes until they reach a tender yet crisp consistency. Thoroughly eliminate excess moisture using a colander.
- Craft a velvety cheese sauce by melting butter in a medium saucepan over moderate heat. Integrate flour and create a smooth roux, allowing it to develop for one minute. Methodically introduce milk, whisking consistently until the mixture thickens and achieves a luxurious texture. Remove from heat and incorporate shredded cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Arrange the blanched vegetables alongside zucchini slices and cherry tomatoes within the prepared baking dish. Cascade the aromatic cheese sauce across the vegetable landscape, gently tossing to ensure complete and uniform coverage.
- Construct a crisp topping by combining breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, and olive oil in a separate mixing bowl. Distribute this mixture evenly across the casserole’s surface, creating a golden, textured crown.
- Slide the casserole into the preheated oven and allow it to transform for 25-30 minutes. Watch for a rich golden-brown topping and bubbling edges, indicating perfect doneness.
- Extract from the oven and permit the casserole to settle for five minutes. Optional: Embellish with fresh parsley or thyme for an elegant finishing touch before serving.
Notes
- Customize vegetable selection by using seasonal or locally available produce to enhance freshness and reduce cooking costs.
- Swap dairy cheese with nutritional yeast or vegan cheese alternatives for a plant-based version that maintains creamy texture and rich flavor.
- Reduce carbohydrate content by substituting breadcrumbs with crushed nuts or seeds like almonds or pumpkin seeds for added protein and crunch.
- Enhance meal prep efficiency by pre-steaming vegetables and preparing cheese sauce in advance, allowing quick assembly during busy weeknights.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Lunch, Dinner
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 6
- Calories: 210
- Sugar: 4 g
- Sodium: 350 mg
- Fat: 10 g
- Saturated Fat: 5 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 24 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 8 g
- Cholesterol: 30 mg