Sunday Baked Vegetable Casserole

Name: Sunday Baked Vegetable Casserole
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h 5 min
Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups chopped mixed vegetables (carrots, broccoli, bell peppers, zucchini); 1 cup cooked quinoa or rice; 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or mozzarella); 1/2 cup crème fraîche or sour cream; 2 eggs, beaten; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

I love making this Sunday Baked Vegetable Casserole for my family gatherings. It’s a fantastic way to use up any leftover vegetables I have in the fridge, and it's packed with flavor! The best part is that I can customize it with whatever seasonal veggies are available. The creamy cheese sauce brings everything together beautifully, making each bite savory and satisfying. Pair it with crusty bread or a fresh salad, and you have a meal that everyone enjoys. It's simplicity at its finest and always a hit around the dinner table!

Created by

Blair Hudson

Last updated on 2026-01-13T21:13:13.623Z

When I first discovered the joy of baked casseroles, I was enamored by how easy and rewarding they are. This Sunday Baked Vegetable Casserole became a staple in my kitchen because of its versatility and wholesome goodness. Each layer of vegetables absorbs the flavors of the herbs and spices, resulting in a dish that’s both hearty and nourishing.

I find that choosing a variety of textures, from crunchy bell peppers to tender zucchini, adds depth to this casserole. The crispy topping enhances the overall experience, adding a satisfying crunch that makes the dish irresistible!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Healthy and hearty, perfect for a family meal
Easily customizable with seasonal vegetables
Creamy yet light, with a crunchy topping that satisfies

      

Maximizing Flavor with Vegetables

The beauty of the Sunday Baked Vegetable Casserole lies in its versatility. Choosing the right mix of vegetables can enhance the flavor profile significantly. I like to use a combination of sweet bell peppers and hearty broccoli or carrots, which provide both a colorful presentation and a rich, diverse taste. If you're looking to make it heartier, adding roasted sweet potatoes or sautéed mushrooms can deepen the flavors and add a lovely texture.

If you're dealing with particularly moisture-heavy vegetables, like zucchini or spinach, it's essential to remove excess water before mixing them in. You can do this by salting them lightly and allowing them to sit for about 10-15 minutes before rinsing and drying. This preparation minimizes excess liquid in the casserole and ensures a creamier, less soggy end result.

Cheese Choices and Texture Tips

The choice of cheese is crucial for achieving the desired creaminess and flavor. Cheddar brings a sharpness that cuts through the richness of the crème fraîche, while mozzarella offers a wonderfully melty texture. For a twist, consider incorporating a tangy goat cheese or a nutty Gruyère. Each type of cheese interacts differently with the other ingredients and will contribute to the overall character of the dish, so feel free to experiment!

When assembling your casserole, make sure to distribute the cheese evenly across the top. This allows for an even melting process, resulting in a beautifully golden and bubbling finish. If you notice parts of the cheese starting to burn before the casserole has finished baking, tent the dish loosely with foil to protect the cheese while allowing the rest to cook through.

Make-Ahead and Storage Suggestions

This casserole is excellent for meal prep! You can assemble it the night before and store it in the refrigerator. Just remember to allow it to come to room temperature for about 30 minutes before baking. If you wish to freeze it, cover the assembled uncooked casserole tightly in foil and it can be stored for up to three months. When you're ready to bake it, it’s best to let it thaw overnight in the fridge before following the normal baking instructions.

Reheating leftovers is simple and quick. I recommend using the oven to warm it up at 350°F (175°C) for about 20-25 minutes, or until heated through and the top is slightly crispy again. Using the microwave is an option too, but be cautious as it can lead to a soggy texture if overheated.

Ingredients

Gather these fresh ingredients before you start:

For the Casserole

2 cups chopped mixed vegetables (carrots, broccoli, bell peppers, zucchini)
1 cup cooked quinoa or rice
1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or mozzarella)
1/2 cup crème fraîche or sour cream
2 eggs, beaten
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon dried oregano
Salt and pepper to taste

Ensure all ingredients are prepped and ready for assembly!

Instructions

Follow these steps to bake your casserole perfectly:

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This is essential for cooking the casserole evenly.

Mix the Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the chopped vegetables, quinoa (or rice), half of the cheese, crème fraîche, eggs, garlic powder, oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix well until everything is evenly coated.

Assemble the Casserole

Pour the mixture into a greased baking dish. Spread it out evenly and top with the remaining cheese.

Bake

Cover with foil and bake for 30 minutes, then remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.

Let it cool slightly before serving. Enjoy your delicious casserole!

Pro Tips

Feel free to add your favorite herbs or spices to customize the flavor even more. A sprinkle of red pepper flakes can add a nice kick!

Serving Suggestions

To elevate your Sunday Baked Vegetable Casserole, serve it alongside a fresh garden salad or a hearty tomato soup. I often whip up a simple vinaigrette to drizzle over the salad, which adds a refreshing contrast to the rich casserole. Adding a crunchy element, like croutons, can also enhance the meal experience.

If you're hosting a family gathering, consider making this casserole the centerpiece of a buffet spread. Complement it with roasted meats or grilled chicken for added protein. It allows your guests to enjoy a variety of textures and flavors, all while keeping it comforting and satisfying.

Variations to Try

For a different twist, try adding cooked lentils or chickpeas for an extra protein boost and a heartier texture. These legumes not only blend well with the creamy sauce but also increase the nutritional value of the dish. Additionally, you could sprinkle some fresh herbs like parsley or basil before serving to infuse even more flavor.

If you're looking to make a Greek-inspired version, consider adding chopped spinach and feta cheese. This variation pairs beautifully with a side of tzatziki and pita bread, capturing a vibrant Mediterranean essence that offers a refreshing change from the traditional casserole.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your casserole doesn't set as expected, there may not have been enough binding ingredients, such as eggs or cheese. Ensure you measure accurately and consider adding an extra egg next time for a firmer texture. Also, check that you’re baking the casserole long enough; the edges should be slightly puffed, and the center should be firm.

If you find your casserole is too dry after baking, it could be due to insufficient moisture from the vegetables or overbaking. To prevent this in the future, make sure to incorporate enough moisture-enhancing ingredients like crème fraîche and cover it initially to lock in steam. Regularly check doneness and avoid extending the cooking time too much.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen vegetables?

Yes, frozen vegetables work perfectly! Just ensure they are thawed and drained before adding them to the mixture.

→ How can I make this casserole vegan?

You can replace the cheese with a dairy-free alternative and use flax eggs instead of regular eggs.

→ Can I prepare this casserole ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the mix a day in advance, store it in the fridge, and bake it when you're ready.

→ What can I serve with this casserole?

This casserole pairs well with a simple green salad or crusty bread for a complete meal.