Description
Looking for a hearty dish to cozy up with this season? This Creamy Winter Vegetable Casserole is packed with tender broccoli, cauliflower, and carrots, all baked in a luscious cheddar-Parmesan cream sauce until golden and bubbling. It’s a perfect go-to for a quick dinner, healthy snack, or easy holiday side. A delicious comfort food that doubles as a vegetarian-friendly main dish — quick to prep, loaded with nutrients, and freezer-friendly too.
Ingredients
2 cups broccoli florets
2 cups cauliflower florets
1 cup sliced carrots
3 tablespoons butter
3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
2 cups milk
1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 cloves garlic, minced
½ teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
Instructions
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a large baking dish.
2. Steam or boil broccoli, cauliflower, and carrots until just tender. Drain and set aside.
3. In a saucepan over medium heat, melt butter. Add minced garlic and cook 1 minute.
4. Whisk in flour to form a roux. Cook 1–2 minutes, whisking constantly.
5. Slowly add milk, whisking to avoid lumps. Cook until thickened, about 3–4 minutes.
6. Stir in shredded cheddar and half the Parmesan until melted and smooth.
7. In a large bowl, combine vegetables with the sauce and toss to coat evenly.
8. Pour mixture into the prepared baking dish. Top with remaining Parmesan.
9. Bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes or until the top is golden and bubbling.
10. Remove from oven, let rest 5 minutes. Garnish with chopped parsley and serve.
Notes
For a crispy topping, sprinkle breadcrumbs and extra cheese on top before baking.
You can substitute almond milk and vegan cheese for a dairy-free version.
Don’t over-steam the vegetables — a little crunch keeps the texture balanced.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Comfort food, Vegetarian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 portion
- Calories: 310
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 450mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 13g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 13g
- Cholesterol: 55mg