Savory Vegetable and Cheese Casserole

Savory Vegetable and Cheese Casserole

Introduction:

Delve into the layers of comfort with this Savory Vegetable and Cheese Casserole, a dish that is as nourishing as it is delightful. Perfect for family dinners or a potluck, this casserole combines a variety of vegetables and cheeses, baked to perfection to achieve a golden, bubbly finish that is both visually appealing and irresistibly tasty.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups chopped broccoli
• 1 cup sliced carrots
• 1 cup chopped bell peppers
• 1 cup chopped onions
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 cup mozzarella cheese
• 4 large eggs
• 1 cup milk
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
• 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a large baking dish with butter.
2. Prepare the vegetables: In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter and sauté onions, carrots, and bell peppers until they are soft, about 5 minutes. Add broccoli and cook for another 2 minutes.
3. Layer the casserole: Spread the sautéed vegetables evenly in the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle half of the cheddar and mozzarella cheeses over the vegetables.
4. Prepare the custard mixture: In a mixing bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, cream, flour, salt, pepper, garlic powder, basil, and oregano until well combined. Pour this mixture over the cheese and vegetables in the dish.
5. Final touches: Sprinkle the remaining cheese on top. This will create a lovely, golden crust as it bakes.
6. Bake: Place the casserole in the oven and bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly and the custard is set.
7. Cool and serve: Let the casserole cool for about 10 minutes before serving. This rest period allows the casserole to set, making it easier to cut and serve.

Conclusion: This Savory Vegetable and Cheese Casserole is a testament to how simple ingredients can be transformed into a sumptuous meal. The blend of tender vegetables and creamy, melted cheese, all enveloped in a light, eggy custard, offers a comforting taste that’s perfect for any season. Serve this alongside a crisp salad or fresh bread for a complete meal that’s sure to satisfy any crowd. Enjoy the depth of flavors and the satisfying texture of this wholesome casserole.