Description
This Creamy Winter Vegetable Casserole is a comforting and wholesome dish featuring a medley of winter vegetables baked in a rich, creamy mushroom sauce topped with melted cheese and a crispy breadcrumb crust. Perfect for cozy dinners, it combines hearty root and cruciferous vegetables in a simple yet flavorful casserole.
Ingredients
Scale
Vegetables
- 2 cups mixed winter vegetables, such as diced carrots, parsnips, cauliflower, broccoli, or Brussels sprouts
Sauce
- 1 can (10.5 oz) low-fat cream of mushroom soup
- 1/2 cup whole milk or unsweetened plant-based milk
Cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar or Gruyère cheese
Topping
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs, regular or panko style
- 1 tablespoon melted butter
Seasonings
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the Vegetables: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Rinse and chop the mixed winter vegetables into bite-sized pieces if not already done. Steam or blanch the vegetables lightly until just tender, about 5-7 minutes, then drain and set aside.
- Make the Sauce: In a large bowl, combine the low-fat cream of mushroom soup with the milk, dried thyme, garlic powder, salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Stir well to create a smooth, creamy sauce base.
- Mix Vegetables and Sauce: Add the steamed vegetables and shredded cheese to the sauce mixture. Gently fold everything until the vegetables are evenly coated with the creamy sauce.
- Assemble the Casserole: Transfer the vegetable and sauce mixture into a greased baking dish, spreading it out evenly. In a small bowl, toss the breadcrumbs with melted butter until coated and sprinkle this mixture evenly over the top of the casserole.
- Bake the Casserole: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven. Bake uncovered for 25-30 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and crispy, and the casserole is bubbling around the edges.
- Serve and Enjoy: Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool slightly for 5 minutes before serving. This dish pairs well with fresh bread or a light salad for a complete meal.
Notes
- You can substitute any winter vegetables you prefer or have on hand, such as sweet potatoes or turnips.
- For a dairy-free version, use plant-based milk and a dairy-free cheese alternative.
- Using panko breadcrumbs will give a crispier topping compared to regular breadcrumbs.
- If you prefer a thicker sauce, reduce the amount of milk slightly or add more cheese.
- Season to taste; add more garlic powder or herbs if desired.
