Nothing says comfort food like a warm, cheesy casserole fresh from the oven. Cheesy Vegetable Casserole is a creamy, indulgent dish that makes even picky eaters fall in love with vegetables. With a combination of tender broccoli, zucchini, and carrots coated in a rich cheese sauce, this casserole is perfect for weeknight dinners, holiday side dishes, or meal prep for the week ahead.

This recipe strikes the perfect balance between creamy, cheesy goodness and the natural sweetness of fresh vegetables. Best of all, it’s easy to prepare, requiring simple ingredients and minimal prep time, yet delivers impressive flavor and presentation.

Ingredients

2 cups broccoli florets, blanched
1 cup sliced zucchini
1 cup sliced carrots
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/4 cup unsalted butter
1/4 cup all-purpose flour
2 cups whole milk
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon onion powder
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup breadcrumbs (optional, for topping)
1 teaspoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
Prepare the vegetables: Blanch broccoli florets in boiling water for 2 minutes, then drain and set aside. Slice zucchini and carrots into thin, even pieces.
Make the cheese sauce: In a medium saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook for 1–2 minutes until it forms a smooth paste. Gradually whisk in milk until smooth and creamy.
Season the sauce: Add garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir continuously until the sauce thickens, about 3–5 minutes.
Add cheese: Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in cheddar, mozzarella, and half of the Parmesan cheese until fully melted and creamy.
Combine vegetables and sauce: In a large mixing bowl, gently toss the blanched broccoli, zucchini, and carrots with the cheese sauce until evenly coated.
Transfer to baking dish: Pour the vegetable and cheese mixture into the prepared baking dish. Smooth the top with a spatula.
Add topping (optional): Sprinkle breadcrumbs and the remaining Parmesan cheese evenly over the casserole for a crunchy topping.
Bake the casserole: Place in the preheated oven and bake for 25–30 minutes, or until the top is golden and the casserole is bubbling around the edges.
Garnish and serve: Remove from oven, let cool for 5 minutes, then garnish with fresh parsley. Serve warm as a comforting main dish or a side.

Tips for the Perfect Cheesy Vegetable Casserole

Blanch vegetables: This step ensures the vegetables cook evenly in the oven and retain vibrant color.
Use fresh cheese: Shredding your own cheese melts better and gives a creamier texture than pre-shredded varieties.
Customize your veggies: Swap in cauliflower, bell peppers, or green beans to suit your taste.
Make it ahead: Assemble the casserole a day before and refrigerate. Bake when ready to serve, adding 5 extra minutes to the baking time.

Variations

Low-carb version: Replace breadcrumbs with crushed pork rinds or almond flour for a keto-friendly casserole.
Spicy twist: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the cheese sauce for subtle heat.
Vegan option: Substitute plant-based milk, vegan butter, and dairy-free cheese.

Serving Suggestions

Pairs perfectly with roasted chicken, turkey, or baked fish.
Serve with a fresh green salad for a balanced weeknight dinner.
Ideal for potlucks, holiday dinners, or as a hearty vegetarian main dish.

Fun Facts

Casseroles have been a staple in American kitchens since the early 20th century. They were popularized as a convenient way to feed large families with minimal effort while maximizing flavor and nutrition. Cheesy vegetable casseroles, in particular, offer a delicious way to incorporate more vegetables into meals without sacrificing taste.