vegetable casserole

Sure! Here’s a simple and delicious vegetable casserole recipe for you:

Vegetable Casserole Recipe

Ingredients:

• 2 cups broccoli florets
• 2 cups cauliflower florets
• 1 cup sliced carrots
• 1 cup sliced zucchini
• 1 cup chopped bell peppers (any color)
• 1 cup frozen peas
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or your choice)
• 1 cup breadcrumbs
• 2 cups milk
• 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 3 tablespoons butter
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
• 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
• 2 tablespoons olive oil

Instructions:

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Prepare Vegetables: Steam the broccoli, cauliflower, carrots, and zucchini for about 5-7 minutes until they are slightly tender but not fully cooked. Drain and set aside.
3. Sauté Onion and Garlic: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, sauté until the onion is translucent.
4. Make Cheese Sauce:
   • In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the flour and cook for about 1 minute to make a roux.
   • Gradually whisk in the milk, continuing to whisk until the mixture thickens and is smooth.
   • Remove from heat and stir in 1 1/2 cups of the shredded cheese until melted and smooth. Add salt, pepper, paprika, thyme, basil, and oregano. Mix well.
5. Combine and Assemble:
   • In a large mixing bowl, combine the steamed vegetables, sautéed onion and garlic, chopped bell peppers, and frozen peas.
   • Pour the cheese sauce over the vegetables and mix until everything is well coated.
6. Transfer to Baking Dish: Grease a large casserole dish and pour the vegetable mixture into it, spreading it evenly.
7. Top and Bake:
   • Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of shredded cheese over the top of the casserole.
   • Evenly distribute the breadcrumbs over the cheese layer.
   • Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, until the top is golden brown and the casserole is bubbly.
8. Serve: Allow the casserole to cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy!

Feel free to customize this recipe with your favorite vegetables or add some cooked quinoa or rice for extra texture and nutrition.