Vegetable Casserole with Mushrooms, Cherry Tomatoes, Broccoli, and Cheese

Directions:

1. Prepare the Vegetables:

• Start by preparing your vegetables. If you haven’t already, steam or blanch the broccoli in boiling water for about 3-4 minutes, or until tender but still bright green. Drain and set aside.
• In a separate pan, sauté the mushrooms in a tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat for 5-7 minutes, or until they’re softened and browned. This will bring out their natural flavor and remove excess moisture.
• Halve the cherry tomatoes and set them aside.

2. Make the Cheese Sauce:

• In a bowl, combine the sour cream (or Greek yogurt), milk, garlic powder, onion powder, and Parmesan cheese. Stir until well combined. Add salt and pepper to taste.
• Mix in about half of the shredded cheddar cheese into the sauce, reserving the rest for the topping.

3. Assemble the Casserole:

• Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
• In a large casserole dish, layer the cooked broccoli, sautéed mushrooms, and cherry tomatoes.
• Pour the cheese mixture over the vegetables and toss gently to coat everything evenly.
• Sprinkle the remaining shredded cheddar cheese over the top, then add the optional breadcrumbs for a crunchy topping.

4. Bake the Casserole:

• Place the casserole dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the top is golden brown.
• If you want an extra crispy top, broil the casserole for the last 2-3 minutes, keeping a close eye on it to prevent burning.

5. Garnish and Serve:

• Once out of the oven, let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving.
• Garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color and added freshness.

6. Enjoy!

• Serve this vegetable casserole as a stand-alone dish or pair it with your favorite protein for a complete meal. It’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or even a weekend gathering with friends and family.

Tips for the Best Vegetable Casserole:

1. Don’t Overcook the Vegetables: While it’s important to cook the broccoli and mushrooms, be careful not to overdo it. You want them to still have some texture when baked in the casserole, so they don’t become mushy.
2. Cheese Variations: Feel free to experiment with different cheeses. Mozzarella, gouda, or even a bit of blue cheese would work well in this casserole. Use your favorite cheese blend for a unique flavor.
3. Add More Veggies: If you have other vegetables on hand, feel free to toss them in! Bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach would be great additions to this dish.
4. Make it Gluten-Free: For a gluten-free version, omit the breadcrumbs or replace them with gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers.
5. Meal Prep: This casserole is a great make-ahead dish. You can assemble it the night before, refrigerate, and then bake it the next day. It’s also a great dish to freeze. Just be sure to let it cool completely before freezing, and reheat it in the oven for the best texture.

Conclusion

This Vegetable Casserole with Mushrooms, Cherry Tomatoes, Broccoli, and Cheese is a flavorful, hearty, and easy-to-make dish that everyone will love. It’s packed with healthy vegetables, creamy cheese, and savory spices, creating the perfect combination of comfort and nutrition. Whether you serve it as a side dish or a main course, it’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Plus, with its versatility, you can make this casserole your own by adding different veggies or cheeses, making it a dish you’ll want to make again and again.

So, next time you’re craving a delicious and satisfying meal, give this vegetable casserole a try! It’s the ultimate comfort food that brings together wholesome ingredients in the most flavorful way.