Sunday Baked Vegetable Casserole

Name: Sunday Baked Vegetable Casserole
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h
Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups broccoli florets; 1 cup chopped carrots; 1 cup bell pepper, diced; 1 cup sliced mushrooms; 2 cups baby spinach; 3 medium potatoes, thinly sliced; 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese; 1 cup sour cream; 1/2 cup milk; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon onion powder; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

When I think of comforting dishes that bring warmth and love to the family table, this Sunday Baked Vegetable Casserole immediately comes to mind. It’s vibrant, delicious, and so easy to prepare, making it the perfect addition to our weekend gatherings. Each bite is filled with colorful vegetables and a creamy, cheesy topping that brings everything together. I love how I can customize it with whatever veggies I have on hand, ensuring that we enjoy a delightful meal that feels both nourishing and indulgent.

Created by

Camilla Rhodes

Last updated on 2026-01-13T21:10:17.235Z

Preparing the Sunday Baked Vegetable Casserole has transformed our weekends into a culinary celebration. This dish combines my favorite seasonal vegetables with a creamy mixture that perfectly complements each ingredient. I particularly enjoy layering the textures—crunchy vegetables, soft potatoes, and a golden-brown cheese topping that makes it irresistible.

One tip that works wonders is to pre-cook the tougher vegetables, like carrots and broccoli, to soften them. This not only elevates the flavor but also ensures everything bakes evenly. I encourage everyone to experiment with their favorite veggies for a personalized touch!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        A colorful medley of seasonal vegetables
Creamy sauce and cheesy topping create a harmonious blend
Perfect for family gatherings or meal prep throughout the week

      

Versatile Vegetable Choices

One of the best aspects of the Sunday Baked Vegetable Casserole is its versatility in vegetables. While the recipe calls for specific veggies like broccoli and bell peppers, feel free to explore seasonal options. For example, zucchini or asparagus work wonders in this dish, providing a unique flavor and texture. The key is to choose vegetables that will soften slightly during baking yet maintain a bit of their structure, ensuring they don’t turn mushy. Aim for a variety of colors to make the casserole visually appealing as well as nutritious.

When preparing your vegetables, consider the density and cooking times. For instance, if you're adding root vegetables like sweet potatoes, thinly slice them to ensure they cook through alongside quicker-cooking veggies. This thoughtful layering leads to balanced bites where every ingredient shines. Remember, the goal is to create a balanced medley, so equal parts of each vegetable will help achieve both flavor and a nutritional boost.

The Importance of Layering

Layering is a fundamental technique in casseroles that directly impacts the final outcome. Starting with the potatoes as the base not only provides structure but also absorbs the flavors from the rest of the ingredients, making every bite savory. When layering, ensure the vegetables are well-distributed and not just piled in one area. This helps them cook evenly and infuse the sauce throughout the casserole. The consistent application of the sauce also helps bind these layers together, creating a cohesive dish.

For a creamy consistency, be generous with the sauce, especially between the layers. If you find your mixture is too thick after combining the ingredients, a splash of additional milk or a dollop of yogurt can help. Just be cautious not to make it too watery, as the casserole needs to set properly when baked. Visual cues like bubbling edges and a light golden color on top will indicate the perfect doneness.

Storing and Serving Suggestions

This casserole is ideal for meal prep, as it stores well in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, simply cover it with foil and gently warm it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, about 20 minutes. This approach helps retain moisture and prevents the cheese from burning. If you're short on time, individual servings can be heated in the microwave for quick lunches or dinners.

Consider serving the baked vegetable casserole alongside a fresh salad or some crusty bread for a complete meal. If you want to add protein, shredded rotisserie chicken or cooked lentils can be mixed in during the layering process. This one-dish wonder is not only inviting but also adaptable to suit various dietary preferences, making it a staple in any home.

Ingredients

Gather these fresh ingredients to elevate your baked vegetable casserole.

Vegetables

2 cups broccoli florets
1 cup chopped carrots
1 cup bell pepper, diced
1 cup sliced mushrooms
2 cups baby spinach

Casserole Base

3 medium potatoes, thinly sliced
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1 cup sour cream
1/2 cup milk
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
Salt and pepper to taste

With these ingredients ready, you're all set to create a delicious meal!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to make your casserole perfectly.

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

Prepare the Vegetables

Blanch the broccoli and carrots in boiling water for 3 minutes to soften. Drain and set aside.

Mix the Sauce

In a bowl, combine sour cream, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, and a pinch of salt and pepper.

Layer the Ingredients

In a baking dish, layer half of the potatoes, followed by the blanched vegetables, then pour half of the sauce over the vegetables. Repeat the layers.

Top with Cheese

Sprinkle the mozzarella cheese on top to create a golden crust.

Bake the Casserole

Cover the dish with foil and bake for 30 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.

Serve Hot

Let it cool for a few minutes before serving hot. Enjoy!

Your Sunday Baked Vegetable Casserole is ready to delight!

Pro Tips

Feel free to substitute or add any vegetables you prefer. Whole grains like quinoa or brown rice can also be added for extra nutrition.

Key Technique Tips

To achieve the best texture, blanching your broccoli and carrots as suggested is essential. This preliminary cooking step not only softens the vegetables but also brightens their color and retains nutrients. Once blanched, immediately plunge them into an ice bath to stop the cooking process. This prevents overcooking while the casserole bakes and ensures the vegetables maintain their vibrant colors and crunch.

When it comes to baking, monitoring the casserole as it cooks is key. After the first 30 minutes covered with foil, the final 15 minutes without foil should have a watchful eye. Aim for a bubbly texture with melted cheese turning golden brown. If your cheese isn’t achieving that beautiful color, placing the dish under the broiler for a minute or two can create that crunchy, irresistible top—just don’t walk away! It can go from perfect to burnt quickly.

Variations and Substitutions

Feel free to experiment with different cheeses for the topping. While mozzarella creates a gooey texture, other cheeses such as cheddar or gouda can introduce a unique flavor profile to the casserole. If you’re looking for a lighter option, consider substituting Greek yogurt for the sour cream. This not only reduces calories but also adds protein, giving the casserole an extra nutritional punch.

For an herbaceous kick, incorporate fresh herbs like thyme or basil into the vegetable layers. These can be added just before baking to preserve their fresh flavor. For spice enthusiasts, a dash of red pepper flakes or fresh jalapeños can elevate the dish, providing some heat. Customizing this recipe not only makes it your own but also ensures you’re catering to your family's taste preferences.

Scaling the Recipe

If you're looking to serve a larger group, scaling this casserole is straightforward. Simply double the ingredients and use a larger baking dish, adjusting the baking time as necessary. Keep in mind that a thicker layer of vegetables may require a longer cooking time, so ensure everything is cooked through by checking with a fork for tenderness.

To make single servings or to freeze for later, consider portioning the casserole into individual ramekins before baking. This method allows you to pull out just what you need without reheating the whole dish. Just remember to adjust the baking time for smaller portions, possibly reducing it by 5 to 10 minutes, checking for that desirable cheesy top and bubbling edges.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare it the day before, store it in the fridge, and bake it just before serving.

→ What can I substitute for sour cream?

Greek yogurt works great as a healthier alternative.

→ Is this casserole vegetarian?

Absolutely! It’s fully vegetarian and packed with nutrients.

→ Can I use frozen vegetables?

Yes, you can use frozen vegetables; just ensure to thaw them before layering.