Description
This Creamy Winter Vegetable Casserole is a comforting and delicious dish perfect for chilly days. Packed with tender cauliflower, broccoli, and carrots smothered in a rich, cheesy sauce with hints of garlic and nutmeg, then baked to bubbly perfection with a golden breadcrumb topping. A satisfying vegetarian side or main that’s easy to prepare and sure to please the whole family.
Ingredients
Scale
Vegetables
- 2 cups cauliflower florets
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 1 1/2 cups sliced carrots
Sauce
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups whole milk (warm)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Topping and Garnish
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs (optional, for topping)
- 1 tablespoon chopped parsley (for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Dish: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish thoroughly to prevent sticking.
- Prepare and Steam Vegetables: Wash and chop the cauliflower, broccoli, and carrots into bite-sized pieces. Steam them for 5–7 minutes until they are just tender but still firm.
- Make Roux: In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the flour and cook for 1–2 minutes, stirring constantly, to form a roux which will thicken the sauce.
- Add Milk and Thicken Sauce: Gradually whisk in the warm whole milk to the roux. Continue cooking the sauce for 3–5 minutes, stirring frequently, until it thickens and coats the back of a spoon.
- Season and Add Cheese: Stir in the garlic powder, ground nutmeg, salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Add the shredded cheddar and grated Parmesan cheese, stirring until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is smooth.
- Combine Vegetables with Cheese Sauce: Place the steamed vegetables in a large bowl and pour the cheese sauce over them. Gently toss to combine, ensuring all the vegetables are coated evenly.
- Assemble Casserole: Transfer the cheesy vegetable mixture to the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle breadcrumbs evenly over the top if using, for added crispness.
- Bake to Perfection: Bake the casserole in the preheated oven for 20–25 minutes until the sauce is bubbly and the top is golden brown. For a crispier top, broil for an additional 2–3 minutes watching carefully to prevent burning.
- Rest, Garnish, and Serve: Allow the casserole to rest for 5–10 minutes after baking. Garnish with chopped parsley to add a fresh burst of color and flavor before serving warm.
Notes
- Steaming the vegetables just until tender helps maintain their bright color and texture.
- Using warm milk in the sauce prevents lumps and ensures a smooth cheese sauce.
- Breadcrumb topping is optional but adds a delightful crunch to the creamy casserole.
- Letting the casserole rest before serving helps the sauce thicken and develop flavors.
- This dish can be made ahead and refrigerated; reheat covered to keep it moist.
