Sunday Baked Vegetable Casserole
Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts
I absolutely love hosting Sunday brunches, and this Baked Vegetable Casserole has become a beloved staple in my kitchen. It’s a vibrant and hearty dish that not only looks beautiful but also packs a punch of flavor and nutrients. The combination of seasonal vegetables and creamy sauce makes it both comforting and satisfying. I can prepare it in advance and pop it in the oven just before serving, making it a stress-free option for my guests. It’s perfect for sharing and always receives rave reviews.
When I first made this Baked Vegetable Casserole, I was amazed at how versatile it is. I've tried different combinations of vegetables based on what I have on hand, and it always turns out delicious. I particularly enjoy using fresh bell peppers, zucchini, and spinach, which create a lovely color palette on the plate and add layers of flavor. Plus, the creamy sauce ties everything together beautifully.
One trick I've learned is to slightly roast the vegetables before adding them to the casserole. This enhances their natural sweetness and gives them a lovely caramelized edge, making every bite a delightful experience. It’s this little detail that elevates the dish and impresses everyone at the table!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Vibrant colors from fresh seasonal vegetables
- Creamy texture with a hint of savory herbs
- Perfect for brunches and gatherings
Understanding the Ingredients
The choice of vegetables in this casserole can significantly impact the overall flavor and nutrition profile. Broccoli adds a nice crunch and is rich in vitamins K and C, while bell peppers introduce sweetness and color. You can experiment with other vegetables like asparagus or carrots depending on what's in season, but ensure that they are cut to similar sizes for even cooking.
The cheeses serve not only for flavor but also contribute to the creamy texture that makes this dish so comforting. Mozzarella melts beautifully and creates that gooey pull, while Parmesan adds a sharp, salty dimension. For a lighter option, you can use part-skim mozzarella, but be aware that it may not melt as richly as full-fat cheese.
Baking Tips for Success
When baking the casserole, keep an eye on the edges. The ideal cook time is around 45 minutes, but if you notice the top browning too quickly, you can loosely cover it with aluminum foil halfway through. This allows the casserole to cook through without burning the cheese, ensuring a beautifully set center and golden top.
Letting the casserole cool for a few minutes before slicing is crucial. This resting period allows the cheesy layers to set, making for cleaner slices. If you prefer a slightly firmer texture, you can leave it to cool for up to 10 minutes. During this time, you can prepare any sides or salads to accompany your brunch.
Ingredients
For the Casserole
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 1 cup diced bell peppers (red and yellow)
- 1 cup sliced zucchini
- 1 cup fresh spinach leaves
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 4 large eggs
- 1 cup milk
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Prepare the Vegetables
In a large mixing bowl, combine the broccoli, bell peppers, zucchini, and spinach. If desired, lightly roast the vegetables in a skillet with a bit of olive oil until just tender.
Mix the Egg Mixture
In another bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, garlic powder, oregano, salt, and pepper until well combined.
Assemble the Casserole
In a greased baking dish, layer the vegetables evenly, then pour the egg mixture over the top. Sprinkle the mozzarella and Parmesan cheese on top.
Bake
Bake in the preheated oven for 45 minutes or until the casserole is set and the cheese is golden and bubbly. Let it cool for a few minutes before slicing.
Pro Tips
- Feel free to swap out the vegetables based on what’s in season or what you prefer. Consider adding some cooked quinoa or lentils for added protein and texture.
Make-Ahead and Storage
This Baked Vegetable Casserole is an excellent make-ahead dish. You can prepare it a day in advance, cover it tightly with plastic wrap, and refrigerate it overnight. When you're ready to bake, let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before putting it in the oven to ensure even cooking. This also helps maintain the cheese’s texture and the overall consistency of the dish.
If you have leftovers, they can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through—about 20 minutes—or in the microwave for a quicker option. However, be aware that the texture may not be as appealing when reheated in the microwave.
Serving Suggestions
This casserole pairs wonderfully with a light side salad dressed in a lemon vinaigrette, which complements the rich flavors of the dish. You could also serve it with toasted bread or a simple fruit platter to round out your brunch spread. For an added touch, consider garnishing with freshly chopped herbs, like parsley or chives, just before serving for a pop of freshness.
If you want to elevate the dish further, consider adding some cooked bacon or sausage crumbles to the vegetable mix for a heartier option. Just be mindful of the salt content from the added meats when seasoning your egg mixture. This creates a delicious variation that appeals to those who prefer a meatier brunch.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole a day in advance. Just cover it and store it in the refrigerator until you're ready to bake it.
→ What kind of cheese works best?
I recommend mozzarella for creaminess, but you can use any cheese you like, such as cheddar or feta for a different flavor.
→ Is it possible to freeze leftovers?
Absolutely! Just let the casserole cool completely, then cover and freeze it for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven when you're ready to enjoy it again.
→ Can I add meat to this recipe?
Yes! Cooked chicken, sausage, or even crumbled bacon would be delicious additions to make this casserole heartier.
Sunday Baked Vegetable Casserole
I absolutely love hosting Sunday brunches, and this Baked Vegetable Casserole has become a beloved staple in my kitchen. It’s a vibrant and hearty dish that not only looks beautiful but also packs a punch of flavor and nutrients. The combination of seasonal vegetables and creamy sauce makes it both comforting and satisfying. I can prepare it in advance and pop it in the oven just before serving, making it a stress-free option for my guests. It’s perfect for sharing and always receives rave reviews.
Created by: Chantel Rivers
Recipe Type: Baking & Desserts
Skill Level: Intermediate
Final Quantity: 6 servings
What You'll Need
For the Casserole
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 1 cup diced bell peppers (red and yellow)
- 1 cup sliced zucchini
- 1 cup fresh spinach leaves
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 4 large eggs
- 1 cup milk
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
How-To Steps
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
In a large mixing bowl, combine the broccoli, bell peppers, zucchini, and spinach. If desired, lightly roast the vegetables in a skillet with a bit of olive oil until just tender.
In another bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, garlic powder, oregano, salt, and pepper until well combined.
In a greased baking dish, layer the vegetables evenly, then pour the egg mixture over the top. Sprinkle the mozzarella and Parmesan cheese on top.
Bake in the preheated oven for 45 minutes or until the casserole is set and the cheese is golden and bubbly. Let it cool for a few minutes before slicing.
Extra Tips
- Feel free to swap out the vegetables based on what’s in season or what you prefer. Consider adding some cooked quinoa or lentils for added protein and texture.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 320 kcal
- Total Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Cholesterol: 195mg
- Sodium: 430mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 18g
- Dietary Fiber: 4g
- Sugars: 4g
- Protein: 18g