Cheesy Baked Vegetable Casserole

 

Cheesy Baked Vegetable Casserole

A hearty, comforting, and cheesy vegetable bake that’s packed with flavor! With roasted bell peppers, broccoli, a creamy béchamel sauce, and a golden cheesy crust, this dish is perfect for a cozy meal or a delicious side dish.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Loaded with Healthy Vegetables – A vibrant mix of broccoli, bell peppers, and tomatoes brings color and nutrients.
Rich & Creamy – The homemade béchamel sauce makes it smooth and indulgent.
Cheesy & Golden – A perfect bubbly, crispy cheese topping for ultimate comfort.
Easy & Customizable – Add your favorite vegetables, proteins, or spices for a unique twist!

Ingredients

For the Vegetable Base:

  • 2 cups broccoli florets, chopped
  • 1 red bell pepper, sliced
  • 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced
  • 1 orange bell pepper, sliced
  • 2 medium tomatoes, diced
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • ½ teaspoon oregano

For the Creamy Béchamel Sauce:

  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 1 ½ cups milk (warm)
  • ½ teaspoon nutmeg
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper

For the Cheesy Topping:

  • 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
  • ½ cup cheddar cheese, shredded
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Vegetables

  1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. In a large pan over medium heat, heat the olive oil and sauté the onion and garlic until fragrant.
  3. Add the bell peppers, broccoli, and tomatoes. Season with salt, pepper, and oregano and cook for 5 minutes until slightly softened.

Step 2: Make the Béchamel Sauce

  1. In a separate saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
  2. Stir in the flour and cook for 1–2 minutes, whisking continuously until golden and smooth.
  3. Slowly pour in the warm milk, whisking constantly to prevent lumps.
  4. Cook until the sauce thickens, then season with nutmeg, salt, and black pepper.

Step 3: Assemble the Casserole

  1. Transfer the sautéed vegetables to a greased baking dish.
  2. Pour the béchamel sauce evenly over the vegetables, ensuring full coverage.
  3. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella and cheddar cheese on top.

Step 4: Bake Until Golden & Bubbly

  1. Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25–30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbling.
  2. Remove from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes before serving.
  3. Garnish with fresh parsley for a touch of freshness.
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