Sunday Baked Vegetable Casserole
Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts
I truly look forward to Sundays, especially because of this Baked Vegetable Casserole. It's my go-to comfort dish filled with vibrant veggies, hearty layers, and cheese that perfectly melts into a creamy delight. As I chop the fresh vegetables, the fragrance fills my kitchen with anticipation. This casserole is not just about taste; it’s a celebration of the beautiful produce that bursts with color and flavor. I love bringing it out for family gatherings or cozy dinner nights, where smiles reign supreme over every serving we scoop up.
Making this baked vegetable casserole has become a delightful ritual in my home. I play around with the vegetables based on what's in season, and it always turns out wonderfully. The key is to sauté the vegetables first; this enhances their flavors and makes the entire dish more satisfying. I love how the cheese creates a crispy top layer that contrasts with the creamy interior.
One of my favorite tips is to sprinkle fresh herbs right before serving. It not only adds freshness but also elevates the entire dish to restaurant-level quality. Every time I serve this up, I feel a sense of pride, knowing I created something nutritious and delicious for my loved ones.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Packed with a variety of fresh vegetables, providing essential nutrients.
- Creamy texture combined with a crispy topping for the perfect bite.
- A versatile recipe that allows you to use whatever veggies you have on hand.
Ingredients
Gather these fresh ingredients for a hearty casserole experience:
Vegetables and Base
- 2 cups chopped broccoli
- 1 cup sliced carrots
- 1 cup chopped bell peppers
- 1 cup zucchini, sliced
- 1 cup spinach
- 1 onion, diced
Casserole Layer
- 2 cups cooked quinoa
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 eggs
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
Mix and match according to your preferred taste or what's available!
Instructions
Follow these easy steps to create your casserole masterpiece:
Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Sauté the Vegetables
In a large skillet, heat a tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion, carrots, and bell peppers; sauté for about 5 minutes until softened. Add broccoli, zucchini, and spinach, cooking for an additional 5 minutes until everything is tender. Season with salt and pepper.
Prepare the Casserole Mixture
In a large bowl, combine the cooked quinoa, ricotta cheese, half of the mozzarella cheese, eggs, and Italian seasoning. Mix well, then fold in the sautéed vegetables gently.
Layer the Casserole
Pour the mixture into a greased baking dish. Spread it evenly, then top with remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
Bake
Cover with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes or until the top is golden brown.
Cool and Serve
Allow the casserole to cool for about 10 minutes before slicing. Serve warm and enjoy this comforting dish with loved ones!
Let your creativity flow—add different herbs or proteins as you see fit!
Pro Tips
- For an even healthier twist, you can substitute half of the cheese with Greek yogurt. It gives an extra creaminess while reducing fats.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I freeze the casserole leftovers?
Yes, you can freeze the baked casserole for up to 2 months. Just ensure it's well-covered to prevent freezer burn.
→ What can I substitute for quinoa?
You can use cooked rice, farro, or even lentils if you prefer; just adjust cooking time as needed.
→ Is it possible to make this dish vegan?
Absolutely! Substitute the ricotta and mozzarella with plant-based cheese, and replace eggs with flaxseed meal mixed with water.
→ Can I add meat to this casserole?
Yes! Ground turkey or crumbled sausage can elevate this dish wonderfully. Just brown the meat before adding it to the vegetable mixture.
Sunday Baked Vegetable Casserole
I truly look forward to Sundays, especially because of this Baked Vegetable Casserole. It's my go-to comfort dish filled with vibrant veggies, hearty layers, and cheese that perfectly melts into a creamy delight. As I chop the fresh vegetables, the fragrance fills my kitchen with anticipation. This casserole is not just about taste; it’s a celebration of the beautiful produce that bursts with color and flavor. I love bringing it out for family gatherings or cozy dinner nights, where smiles reign supreme over every serving we scoop up.
Created by: Megan Douglas
Recipe Type: Baking & Desserts
Skill Level: Intermediate
Final Quantity: 8 servings
What You'll Need
Vegetables and Base
- 2 cups chopped broccoli
- 1 cup sliced carrots
- 1 cup chopped bell peppers
- 1 cup zucchini, sliced
- 1 cup spinach
- 1 onion, diced
Casserole Layer
- 2 cups cooked quinoa
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 eggs
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
How-To Steps
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
In a large skillet, heat a tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion, carrots, and bell peppers; sauté for about 5 minutes until softened. Add broccoli, zucchini, and spinach, cooking for an additional 5 minutes until everything is tender. Season with salt and pepper.
In a large bowl, combine the cooked quinoa, ricotta cheese, half of the mozzarella cheese, eggs, and Italian seasoning. Mix well, then fold in the sautéed vegetables gently.
Pour the mixture into a greased baking dish. Spread it evenly, then top with remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
Cover with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes or until the top is golden brown.
Allow the casserole to cool for about 10 minutes before slicing. Serve warm and enjoy this comforting dish with loved ones!
Extra Tips
- For an even healthier twist, you can substitute half of the cheese with Greek yogurt. It gives an extra creaminess while reducing fats.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 280 kcal
- Total Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
- Sodium: 420mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 30g
- Dietary Fiber: 4g
- Sugars: 5g
- Protein: 12g