Aunt Erna'S Vegetable Casserole
A comforting vegetable casserole with creamy cheese and crunchy cracker topping, perfect for family dinners or potlucks, offering savory flavors and a crispy texture.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Put the cooked and drained California vegetable mix and Velveeta cheese in a 9 x 13-inch pan.
- Combine crushed Ritz crackers and melted margarine in a bowl.
- Spread the cracker mixture on top of the vegetables and cheese in the pan.
- Bake at 300°F for 20 minutes until bubbly and golden.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a can of cream of mushroom soup to the vegetable mix. If you don't have Ritz crackers, crushed potato chips or panko breadcrumbs can be a great substitute for the topping. Ensure the vegetables are well-drained to prevent the casserole from becoming soggy. You can also spice it up with a dash of garlic powder or paprika for added flavor.
Serving Suggestions
This casserole is a delightful side dish for any family gathering or holiday meal. It pairs beautifully with roasted meats or a fresh salad, such as Super Wonderful Spinach Salad Dressing, for a balanced meal. Consider serving it alongside crusty bread or a light soup for a complete dinner.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions, but the oven will help maintain the crispiness of the topping.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Aunt Erna'S Vegetable Casserole contains roughly 1830 calories, with 14g protein, 13g carbohydrates, and 195g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (29% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2007mg per serving (87% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this recipe vegan?
Yes, you can easily adapt this recipe to be vegan! Use vegan margarine and a dairy-free cheese alternative instead of Velveeta. Also, check that your crackers are vegan-friendly. This way, everyone can enjoy the dish!
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).