A delicious, creamy vegetable casserole loaded with tender broccoli, colorful vegetables, melted cheese, and a rich, velvety sauce. This easy oven-baked dish is perfect for family dinners, lunch, or a comforting side dish.

Ingredients

  • 2 cups broccoli florets
  • 1 cup cauliflower florets
  • 1 medium carrot, sliced
  • ½ cup sweet corn
  • ½ cup green peas
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup milk
  • ½ cup cooking cream
  • 1 tbsp butter
  • 1 tbsp all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • ¼ cup grated cheddar cheese
  • ½ tsp black pepper
  • ½ tsp salt, or to taste
  • ½ tsp garlic powder
  • ½ tsp dried oregano
  • 2 tbsp breadcrumbs (optional)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the vegetables

Preheat your oven to 190°C (375°F). Wash the broccoli, cauliflower, and carrots thoroughly. Cut them into bite-sized pieces. Bring a pot of water to a boil, add the broccoli and cauliflower, and blanch for 2–3 minutes. Add the carrots and cook briefly until slightly tender. Drain well and set aside. The vegetables should remain firm because they will continue cooking in the oven.

Step 2: Sauté the onion and garlic

Heat the butter in a pan over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook for 2–3 minutes until soft and translucent. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant. Add the sweet corn and green peas, then sauté for 2 minutes.

Step 3: Make the creamy sauce

Sprinkle the flour over the onion mixture and stir continuously for about 1 minute. Gradually pour in the milk while whisking to prevent lumps. Add the cooking cream, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and oregano. Cook for 3–5 minutes, stirring frequently, until the sauce becomes smooth and slightly thickened.

Step 4: Add the cheese

Stir in half of the mozzarella and the cheddar cheese. Mix until the cheese melts into the sauce, creating a rich and creamy texture. Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning if needed.

Step 5: Combine the vegetables

Add the blanched broccoli, cauliflower, carrots, peas, and corn to the creamy sauce. Gently toss everything together until the vegetables are evenly coated. Make sure the sauce reaches all the pieces for the best flavor.

Step 6: Assemble the casserole

Lightly grease a baking dish with butter or oil. Transfer the vegetable mixture into the dish and spread it evenly. Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella cheese over the top. If you like a crunchy topping, add a light layer of breadcrumbs.

Step 7: Bake until golden

Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the sauce is bubbling and the cheese has melted into a beautiful golden layer. For a deeper golden top, broil for an additional 2–3 minutes, watching carefully to prevent burning.

Step 8: Rest and serve

Remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest for 5–10 minutes before serving. This allows the creamy sauce to settle and makes serving easier. Garnish with a little fresh parsley or dried herbs if desired.

✨ Tips for the Best Casserole

  • Avoid watery vegetables: Drain the broccoli and cauliflower thoroughly before adding them to the sauce.
  • Make it extra creamy: Add a little more cream or mozzarella if you prefer a richer casserole.
  • Add protein: Mix in cooked chicken, shredded turkey, or white beans for a more filling meal.
  • Make it spicy: Add a pinch of chili flakes or paprika to the sauce.
  • Prepare ahead: Assemble the casserole, cover, and refrigerate. Bake when ready, allowing a little extra time if starting from cold.

🍽️ Serving Suggestions

Serve this creamy broccoli and vegetable casserole with garlic bread, roasted chicken, grilled fish, or a fresh green salad. It also makes a comforting vegetarian main dish on its own.