Creamy Winter Vegetable Casserole Recipe
This Creamy Winter Vegetable Casserole is a comforting and delicious way to enjoy a variety of seasonal winter vegetables. Coated in a savory low-fat cream of mushroom soup and melted cheese, then topped with buttery breadcrumbs, this baked dish is perfect as a hearty side or even a main for a cozy meal.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Fat
Ingredients
Scale
Vegetables
- 2 cups mixed winter vegetables, such as diced carrots, parsnips, cauliflower, broccoli, or Brussels sprouts
Casserole Base
- 1 can (10.5 oz) low-fat cream of mushroom soup
- 1/2 cup whole milk or unsweetened plant-based milk
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar or Gruyère cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Topping
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs, regular or panko style
- 1 tablespoon melted butter
Instructions
- Prepare Oven and Baking Dish: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a medium baking dish with butter or oil to prevent sticking.
- Prep Vegetables: Steam or blanch the fresh vegetables for 3 to 4 minutes until they are just tender but still firm. Drain them thoroughly to remove any excess water. If using frozen vegetables, ensure they are fully thawed and pat dry to eliminate moisture.
- Combine Filling Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the prepared vegetables with the low-fat cream of mushroom soup, milk, shredded cheese, dried thyme, garlic powder, salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Mix everything thoroughly so that the vegetables are evenly coated with the creamy mixture.
- Fill Baking Dish: Transfer the vegetable mixture into the greased baking dish. Use a spoon or spatula to spread it out evenly for consistent cooking.
- Add Topping: In a small bowl, mix the breadcrumbs with melted butter until they are well combined. Sprinkle this breadcrumb mixture evenly over the top of the casserole for a crunchy golden crust.
- Bake: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake uncovered for 25 to 30 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the topping is golden brown and crispy, and the filling is bubbling around the edges.
- Rest and Serve: Remove the casserole from the oven and allow it to rest for 5 minutes. This helps the dish set and enhances the flavors. Serve warm for a comforting meal.
Notes
- Use a mix of vegetables based on seasonal availability for the best flavor and texture.
- For a vegan option, substitute the cream of mushroom soup and cheese with plant-based alternatives and use plant-based milk.
- To reduce carbs, substitute breadcrumbs with crushed nuts or gluten-free alternatives.
- Make sure to drain vegetables well after steaming to avoid a watery casserole.
- This dish can be prepared a day in advance and baked just before serving for convenience.
Keywords: winter vegetable casserole, creamy vegetable bake, comfort food, healthy casserole, baked vegetable dish
