Sunday Baked Vegetable Casserole

Name: Sunday Baked Vegetable Casserole
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 1 h
Yield: 8 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups broccoli florets; 2 cups diced bell peppers; 1 cup sliced mushrooms; 1 cup diced zucchini; 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese; 1 cup ricotta cheese; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 cup breadcrumbs; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 teaspoon dried basil

Highlighted under: Healthy & Light

I love Sunday mornings when the kitchen fills with the aroma of a delicious baked vegetable casserole. This dish is a comforting blend of seasonal vegetables, cheese, and a creamy sauce that comes together effortlessly. I always enjoy using fresh produce from the local market, as it brightens up the dish with vibrant colors and flavors. Plus, this casserole is a great way to clear out the fridge and make something wholesome and satisfying for the whole family. It’s the perfect centerpiece for our Sunday brunch.

Created by

Jocelyn Parker

Last updated on 2026-01-13T22:34:09.647Z

In my kitchen, the Sunday Baked Vegetable Casserole has become a family favorite. One Sunday, after experimenting with various cheeses and veggies, I discovered the perfect combination that everyone loved. The key is to use a mix of textures and flavors, from creamy to crunchy, keeping each bite exciting. For added depth, I always sprinkle some fresh herbs right before serving.

What I’ve learned through making this casserole is the importance of layering. By arranging the vegetables in a well-planned order, it ensures even cooking and enhances the dish’s visual appeal. I suggest lightly sautéing the vegetables beforehand to maximize their flavor and avoid excess moisture in the casserole.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        A delightful medley of juicy, roasted vegetables
Creamy and cheesy goodness that will satisfy your comfort food cravings
Easily customizable—add your favorite seasonings or proteins!

      

Choosing Fresh Vegetables

Selecting the right vegetables is key to making your Sunday Baked Vegetable Casserole stand out. Fresh, seasonal produce not only enhances the flavor but also adds vibrant colors to your dish. Focus on selecting vegetables that are in peak season for the best taste and nutrition. For example, if it's summer, consider adding bell peppers and zucchini, while fall might call for butternut squash and Brussels sprouts. Look for firm, unblemished vegetables, which indicate freshness.

When prepping your vegetables, aim for uniform sizes to ensure even cooking. For instance, when chopping zucchini, cut it into similar-sized cubes as the bell peppers. This simple tip will help maintain consistent textures—softness in the casserole while still providing the occasional crunchy bite.

Crafting the Perfect Creamy Mixture

The creamy layer in this casserole is what makes it comforting and indulgent. By blending ricotta cheese with heavy cream, you achieve a rich texture that complements the vegetables beautifully. For an extra depth of flavor, consider adding a splash of lemon juice or some freshly grated Parmesan cheese to this mixture. The acidity from the lemon balances the richness, keeping the dish bright and light.

One of the key elements is to mix the ingredients thoroughly until smooth. This prevents clumps in the final dish, ensuring every bite is creamy and cohesive. If you prefer a lighter version, you can substitute low-fat cream cheese for the ricotta or opt for a dairy-free cream substitute to cater to dietary preferences.

Baking and Storing Your Casserole

Baking the casserole until it's bubbly and golden on top is essential for achieving the perfect texture. Keep an eye on it towards the end of the baking time—if the top starts to brown too quickly, cover it loosely with aluminum foil to prevent burning. You want the internal temperature to reach at least 160°F (71°C) for safe consumption, so using a food thermometer is a great way to ensure it’s cooked through.

If you're making this dish in advance, it stores well in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or warm the whole dish in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, about 20 minutes. For longer storage, consider freezing the casserole before baking. Wrap tightly in aluminum foil and plastic wrap; it can last up to three months in the freezer. Just bake from frozen, adding an additional 15-20 minutes to the original bake time.

Ingredients

Gather all your ingredients before starting for a smooth cooking experience.

Vegetables

2 cups broccoli florets
2 cups diced bell peppers
1 cup sliced mushrooms
1 cup diced zucchini
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

Cheese and Sauce

2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
1 cup ricotta cheese
1 cup heavy cream
1 teaspoon garlic powder
Salt and pepper to taste

Topping

1 cup breadcrumbs
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon dried basil

Feel free to experiment with vegetables based on what’s in season!

Instructions

Preparation is essential before diving into cooking.

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures even cooking and a perfectly baked casserole.

Prepare the Vegetables

In a large bowl, combine the broccoli, bell peppers, mushrooms, zucchini, and cherry tomatoes. Season with salt and pepper.

Make the Creamy Mixture

In another bowl, mix the ricotta cheese, heavy cream, garlic powder, and half of the cheddar cheese until smooth.

Layer the Casserole

In a greased baking dish, layer half of the vegetable mixture, then spread half of the creamy mixture. Repeat the layers.

Top with Breadcrumbs

In a small bowl, mix breadcrumbs with olive oil and dried basil. Sprinkle evenly over the casserole.

Bake

Bake in the preheated oven for 40 minutes or until bubbly and golden on top.

Serve

Allow the casserole to cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your delicious and hearty dish!

Pair it with a fresh salad for a complete meal!

Pro Tips

To elevate the flavor, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes for some heat or using a variety of cheeses for a more complex taste.

Serving Suggestions

This baked vegetable casserole is incredibly versatile when it comes to serving ideas. Pair it with a fresh garden salad or some crusty bread for a complete meal. You can also serve it as a side dish to grilled meats or fish, easily elevating your Sunday brunch experience. If you want to add more protein, consider mixing in shredded chicken or cooked beans for an extra hearty option.

For a festive touch, sprinkle some chopped fresh herbs like parsley or chives over the top before serving. This adds not only color but a fresh burst of flavor that complements the richness of the cheese and cream.

Customization Ideas

One of the best aspects of this casserole is its flexibility. Feel free to mix up the vegetables based on your family's preferences or what you have on hand. Sweet potatoes, spinach, or artichokes can all make excellent additions. Switching up the cheese can also provide different flavor profiles; try mozzarella for a stringy texture, or feta for a tangy kick.

You can also tailor the spice profile to fit your taste. Add some red pepper flakes for a bit of heat, or throw in Italian seasoning for an aromatic touch. The ability to adapt the dish to your personal taste makes it a fabulous recipe for any gathering.

Troubleshooting Tips

If you find that your casserole is too watery when baked, it could be due to excess moisture from the vegetables. To mitigate this, try salt-drawing your veggies first by sprinkling them with salt and letting them sit for about 15 minutes before adding them to the casserole. This step helps release extra moisture and can lead to a firmer final dish.

Conversely, if you prefer a creamier texture, consider increasing the proportion of cheese or cream in the mixture. Experimenting with your proportions can yield delightful variations suited to your taste buds!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen vegetables?

Yes, you can use frozen vegetables, but make sure to thaw and drain them to avoid excess moisture.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for the best texture.

→ Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can assemble it a day in advance, cover, and refrigerate until ready to bake.

→ What should I serve with this casserole?

A simple green salad or crusty bread pairs wonderfully with this baked casserole.