Description
Warm, cheesy, and brimming with seasonal goodness — this Creamy Winter Vegetable Casserole is the perfect cozy dish for chilly days. It’s a blend of lightly steamed vegetables like cauliflower, broccoli, and carrots, all enveloped in a rich, homemade cheese sauce and baked until bubbling and golden. Whether you’re searching for a hearty vegetarian main, an easy dinner idea, or a comforting side for the holidays, this easy recipe fits beautifully into your winter meal rotation. It’s packed with flavor, nutrients, and just enough indulgence to feel special.
Ingredients
2 cups cauliflower florets
2 cups broccoli florets
1 1/2 cups sliced carrots
2 tablespoons butter
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
2 cups whole milk (warm)
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
1/4 cup breadcrumbs (optional, for topping)
1 tablespoon chopped parsley (for garnish)
Instructions
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. Wash and chop vegetables into bite-sized pieces. Steam for 5–7 minutes until just tender.
3. In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Stir in flour to create a roux and cook 1–2 minutes.
4. Gradually whisk in warm milk. Cook until sauce thickens, about 3–5 minutes.
5. Stir in garlic powder, nutmeg, salt, and pepper. Add cheddar and Parmesan, stirring until melted.
6. Place steamed vegetables in a large bowl. Pour cheese sauce over and gently combine.
7. Transfer mixture to the prepared baking dish. Top with breadcrumbs if using.
8. Bake for 20–25 minutes until bubbly and golden. Broil for 2–3 minutes for a crispier top.
9. Let rest 5–10 minutes. Garnish with parsley and serve warm.
Notes
Use warm milk when making the cheese sauce to avoid lumps and ensure a smooth texture.
Steam the vegetables just until tender-crisp — they’ll continue to cook in the oven.
For added texture and flavor, sprinkle seasoned breadcrumbs or crushed crackers on top before baking.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 portion
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 350mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 10g
- Cholesterol: 45mg