Creamy Vegetable Casserole Recipe

If you’ve been searching for the ultimate comfort food, look no further than this Creamy Vegetable Casserole. Packed with vibrant veggies in a dreamy, cheesy sauce and finished with a crunchy onion topping, this dish transforms humble ingredients into a crowd-pleasing classic that’ll have everyone coming back for seconds.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic of this Creamy Vegetable Casserole is how simple pantry and freezer staples meld into something delightful. Each ingredient adds depth, color, or that craveable creamy bite we love in classic casseroles—here’s what makes it shine:

• Butter: This forms the rich base for the roux, giving the sauce its luscious flavor and body.
• All-purpose flour: Whisked with butter, this thickens the sauce without making it heavy.
• Heavy cream: For ultimate creaminess and a decadent texture—use full-fat for best results.
• Salt, black pepper & white pepper: These balance the flavors and add a gentle warmth.
• Smoked paprika: Just a touch adds subtle smokiness and gorgeous color.
• Onion powder, garlic powder & celery salt: These seasonings layer in savory depth, enhancing the veggies and sauce.
• Frozen cauliflower & broccoli: Pantry heroes—no need to thaw, just toss them right in for texture and heartiness.
• Frozen mixed vegetables: A classic blend of carrots, corn, peas, and more adds color, flavor, and sweetness.
• Sour cream: This tangy addition lightens up the sauce and keeps every bite fresh.
• Shredded cheddar cheese: Divided for inside the casserole and melty goodness on top—sharp cheddar really makes it pop.
• French fried onions: The must-have crunchy topping that bakes up golden, salty, and completely irresistible.
• Fresh parsley (optional): For a bright pop of green and a hint of freshness just before serving.

Variations

The real beauty of a Creamy Vegetable Casserole is how customizable it is! Don’t be shy about mixing things up depending on what’s in your fridge, your favorite flavors, or special dietary needs.

• Swap the Cheese: Try Swiss, Monterey Jack, or even smoked Gouda for a fun flavor twist.
• Make it Gluten-Free: Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend in the roux, and double-check your crispy onion topping (or substitute with gluten-free breadcrumbs).
• Go Low-Carb: Substitute extra cauliflower or broccoli for the mixed vegetables for a more keto-friendly version.
• Add Protein: Shredded rotisserie chicken or diced ham make this casserole a hearty main course for any night.
• Change Up the Veggies: Asparagus, green beans, or bell pepper strips work beautifully too—just keep the veggie volume about the same.

How to Make Creamy Vegetable Casserole

Step 1: Make the Creamy Cheese Sauce

Start by melting the butter in a saucepan or large skillet over medium-low heat. Whisk in the flour and let it cook for one to two minutes, allowing it to turn golden and lose that raw flour taste—this step builds the sauce’s silky foundation.

Step 2: Whisk in Cream and Seasonings

Gradually pour in the heavy cream, whisking constantly so the mixture stays smooth and lump-free. Cook until thickened, then stir in all the wonderful seasonings (salt, both peppers, smoked paprika, onion powder, garlic powder, and celery salt) so every spoonful is rich and flavorful.

Step 3: Stir in Sour Cream and Cheddar

Remove the pan from the heat—now’s the time to whisk in the tangy sour cream and most of the cheddar cheese. This step creates that ultra-creamy, cheesy sauce that gives the casserole its signature coziness.

Step 4: Assemble the Casserole

Place all your frozen veggies—cauliflower, broccoli, and mixed vegetables—straight into a 9×13-inch baking dish (no need to thaw!). Pour the warm cheese sauce evenly over the top and gently stir everything together for an even coating.

Step 5: Add Crunchy Toppings and Bake

Sprinkle the casserole with the remaining cheddar cheese and all those glorious French fried onions. Bake at 350˚F until the top is golden, bubbly, and crisp—about 50 minutes. The aroma is absolutely irresistible!

Step 6: Finish and Serve

Remove your Creamy Vegetable Casserole from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. If you’d like a pop of freshness, scatter a bit of chopped parsley over the top right before serving. Dig in and watch everyone light up with joy!

How to Serve Creamy Vegetable Casserole

Garnishes

A finishing sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley is the perfect touch—it adds fresh green color and a hint of brightness that balances the richness of your Creamy Vegetable Casserole. For a little extra pop, you could also try a dusting of smoked paprika or even a few sliced green onions.

Side Dishes

This casserole pairs beautifully with roasted meats like turkey, chicken, or ham and is lovely alongside a crisp green salad or buttery dinner rolls. It’s also fantastic as a holiday side dish or as a comforting main course on any chilly evening.

Creative Ways to Present

For fun presentation, serve your Creamy Vegetable Casserole in individual ramekins or oven-safe mugs—everyone gets their own personal portion! If you’re entertaining, try baking it in a beautiful cast iron or ceramic dish and garnish right before serving for maximum wow factor.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Creamy Vegetable Casserole will keep beautifully in the fridge for up to four days. Simply cover the dish with foil or transfer portions to an airtight container for easy reheating throughout the week.

Freezing

To freeze, let the casserole cool completely before wrapping tightly in foil and plastic wrap (or portion into freezer-safe containers). It can be frozen for up to three months—just thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

Reheat gently in a 350˚F oven, covered with foil until hot and bubbly, about 20–25 minutes. For smaller servings, the microwave works well too—just add a splash of cream if you’d like to restore maximum creaminess.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

Warm, comforting, and effortlessly crowd-pleasing, Creamy Vegetable Casserole is always a hit at the table. I hope your family and friends love it every bit as much as mine do—the creamy sauce, bright veggies, and crunchy top are guaranteed to make memories. Give it a try, and let your kitchen fill with the irresistible aroma of classic comfort food made new!

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