Cheesy Baked Vegetable Casserole

This Creamy Garden Harvest Casserole is the perfect way to elevate a mix of simple vegetables into a comforting and satisfying main dish. With a rich cream of mushroom and sour cream base, each bite is packed with tender broccoli, colorful peppers, and a cheesy, bubbling top that delivers on both texture and taste. Whether you’re feeding picky eaters or looking for a cozy vegetarian dinner that doesn’t sacrifice flavor, this dish is sure to deliver. The breadcrumb topping adds just the right amount of crunch, and it’s easy to adapt with your favorite seasonal vegetables or make dairy-free with plant-based swaps. Serve it up at your next family dinner or meal prep it for the week—it reheats beautifully!

Full recipe:

Ingredients:

Vegetable Base:

• 2 cups mixed vegetables (broccoli, cauliflower, carrots)

• 1 medium onion, chopped

• 1 cup bell peppers, diced (any color)

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

Casserole Mixture:

• 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup

• 1 cup sour cream

• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

• 1 tsp dried thyme or Italian seasoning

• Salt and pepper to taste

Topping:

• 1 cup breadcrumbs (optional for topping)

• 2 tablespoons olive oil

• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Directions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).

2. In a skillet over medium heat, sauté onion and bell peppers in olive oil for 5 minutes. Add garlic and cook 1 more minute.

3. In a large bowl, mix sautéed veggies with mixed vegetables, cream of mushroom soup, sour cream, half the cheddar cheese, thyme, salt, and pepper.

4. Spread mixture evenly into a greased 9×13 inch casserole dish.

5. Top with remaining cheddar, mozzarella, Parmesan, and breadcrumbs if using.

6. Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove foil and bake an additional 15–20 minutes until top is golden and bubbly.

7. Let sit 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with parsley.

Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 40 minutes | Total Time: 55 minutes
Kcal: 310 kcal | Servings: 6 servings

Cozy, Cheesy, and Packed with Veggies: Why This Vegetable Casserole Is Your New Favorite Weeknight Winner

There’s something incredibly comforting about a dish that bubbles in the oven, filling your home with the aromas of melted cheese, herbs, and roasted vegetables. Our Cheesy Baked Vegetable Casserole is exactly that—a warm, satisfying, veggie-loaded dish that hits the sweet spot between indulgent and nutritious. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight family dinner, a cozy get-together, or meal prepping for the week ahead, this casserole offers unbeatable flavor and flexibility.

Let’s dive into why this casserole deserves a permanent spot in your recipe rotation.

The Story Behind the Dish

This recipe was born out of a desire to make vegetables taste amazing—even to the most veggie-averse members of the family. By pairing vibrant ingredients like broccoli, cauliflower, carrots, and bell peppers with a rich, creamy mushroom and sour cream base, the result is a crowd-pleasing bake that feels both wholesome and indulgent.

Inspired by classic comfort food casseroles from decades past, this updated version incorporates lighter, healthier options without sacrificing flavor. The addition of Italian herbs, freshly sautéed aromatics, and a tri-cheese topping (cheddar, mozzarella, and parmesan) make every bite rich in flavor and texture. And the optional breadcrumb topping? The perfect golden crunch.

What Makes This Recipe Special

There are hundreds of vegetable casseroles out there—so what makes this one stand out? Here are just a few reasons this dish is a star:

✅ Balanced Comfort

It’s warm, cheesy, and cozy—but also packed with fiber-rich, nutrient-dense vegetables. The balance makes it feel like a treat, without the guilt.

✅ Customizable and Flexible

Use whatever veggies you have on hand—zucchini, green beans, corn, spinach—you name it. You can even swap the cream of mushroom soup for homemade or vegan alternatives.

✅ Family-Friendly

Kids and picky eaters are more likely to say “yes” to veggies when they’re served under a blanket of cheese. Trust us—it works every time.

✅ Meal-Prep Friendly

Make it ahead, store it in the fridge, or freeze it for later. This dish keeps well and reheats beautifully.

✅ Naturally Vegetarian

It’s a fantastic meatless option that still feels hearty and satisfying.

Health Benefits of Key Ingredients

Even though it’s cozy and creamy, this casserole packs a serious nutritional punch. Let’s take a closer look at the health benefits of its main components:

🥦 Broccoli & Cauliflower

Cruciferous vegetables like these are high in antioxidants, fiber, and Vitamin C. They support detoxification, aid digestion, and boost your immune system.

🫑 Bell Peppers

Loaded with Vitamin A and C, bell peppers are also great for skin health and immunity. They also bring natural sweetness and color to the dish.

🧅 Onions & Garlic

These alliums don’t just add flavor—they support heart health, offer antibacterial benefits, and help regulate blood sugar.

🧀 Cheese (Cheddar, Mozzarella, Parmesan)

Cheese is a good source of calcium, protein, and Vitamin B12. When used in moderation, it adds creaminess and satisfaction to vegetable-forward meals.

🍄 Cream of Mushroom Soup

A classic in casseroles, this soup can be store-bought or homemade. Mushrooms contain immune-boosting properties and are naturally low in calories.

Customization Tips

This casserole is incredibly forgiving and adaptable. Here are some ideas to make it your own:

• Make It Spicy: Add diced jalapeños or red pepper flakes for a kick.
• Go Vegan: Use plant-based cream alternatives, dairy-free cheese, and mushroom soup made with almond or oat milk.
• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed cornflakes.
• Protein Boost: Add chickpeas, tofu, or even cooked lentils to make it more filling.
• Extra Greens: Spinach, kale, or Swiss chard blend well without overpowering the other flavors.

How to Serve It

This casserole is filling enough to stand on its own as a main dish, but you can also serve it as a hearty side. Here are a few pairing ideas:

• Main Dish: Serve with a crisp green salad and crusty bread.
• Side Dish: Pair with grilled chicken, salmon, or baked tofu for added protein.
• Brunch Option: Add a few whisked eggs into the mix for a breakfast-style bake.

Storage and Reheating

One of the best things about casseroles is how well they store. This one is no different:

• Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3–4 days.
• Freezer: Freeze portions for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
• To Reheat: Use the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15–20 minutes, or microwave individual servings until hot.

Perfect for Meal Prep or Make-Ahead Meals

If you’re someone who loves to plan ahead, this casserole is your best friend. You can assemble it a day in advance and bake it right before serving. Or bake it fully, refrigerate or freeze it, and reheat when needed.

It’s an ideal option for busy weeks, last-minute dinner guests, or potluck-style gatherings where you want to show up with something truly comforting and crowd-pleasing.

Testimonials From Around the Table

“I never thought my kids would be excited for broccoli, but when it’s in this casserole? It’s a yes every time!” – Emma L., mom of two

“This recipe is my go-to for meal prepping lunches. It’s hearty, flavorful, and keeps me full all day.” – David H., fitness coach

“My partner is lactose intolerant, and we tried this with vegan cheese and sour cream—still amazing!” – Krystal M., plant-based eater

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I use frozen vegetables instead of fresh ones?
Yes! No need to thaw—just add frozen mixed veggies directly into the mixture. Just be sure to drain any excess liquid after baking if needed.

What cheese works best?
We love cheddar, mozzarella, and parmesan for their meltability and flavor. You can experiment with gouda, Swiss, or even pepper jack for a little heat.

How do I make it low-carb?
Skip the breadcrumbs and opt for low-carb veggies like zucchini, spinach, or mushrooms. You can also reduce the cheese or use a low-fat version.

Can I make this ahead of time?
Absolutely. Prepare it up to 24 hours in advance and refrigerate until ready to bake.

Is it kid-friendly?
Totally! The cheesy, creamy texture makes it very appealing to little ones. You can even dice the veggies smaller to “hide” them more easily.

Conclusion 

There’s a reason casseroles have stood the test of time—they’re easy, versatile, and bring people together around the table. This Cheesy Baked Vegetable Casserole is no exception. Whether you’re sneaking more veggies into your kids’ meals or whipping up something comforting for yourself, this recipe checks all the boxes: flavor, nutrition, and simplicity.

Try it once, and you’ll find yourself coming back to it week after week, especially on those evenings when you want something warm, creamy, and satisfying without spending hours in the kitchen.