Aunt Sue'S Vegetable Casserole
A hearty vegetable casserole combining tender vegetables with creamy cheese and savory flavors, topped with crumbled crackers. Perfect for family dinners or potlucks.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Drain all vegetables and mix together into a large casserole dish.
- Add cream of celery soup, grated cheese, chopped onion, chopped bell pepper, sour cream, and water to the vegetables.
- Mix well to combine all ingredients.
- Sprinkle crumbled Ritz crackers on top.
- Dot with margarine.
- Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 30 minutes or until bubbly and golden brown.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider sautéing the chopped onion and bell pepper in a bit of olive oil before mixing them into the casserole. You can substitute the cream of celery soup with cream of mushroom soup for a different taste. If you're looking for a healthier option, use low-fat sour cream and reduced-fat cheese without sacrificing the creaminess of the dish.
Serving Suggestions
This vegetable casserole pairs beautifully with a fresh green salad or crusty bread for a complete meal. For a heartier option, serve it alongside grilled chicken or fish. It also makes a delightful side dish for holiday gatherings, complementing traditional dishes like Morea'S Meat Pie or roasted meats.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the casserole in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions for a quick meal, but be sure to cover them to retain moisture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Aunt Sue'S Vegetable Casserole contains roughly 320 calories, with 6g protein, 27g carbohydrates, and 22g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (95% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A and protein. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 603mg per serving (26% 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 casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole a day in advance. Simply assemble it without baking, cover tightly, and refrigerate. When you're ready to serve, preheat your oven and bake it directly from the fridge, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.
What can I use instead of Ritz crackers?
If you don't have Ritz crackers, any buttery cracker or even seasoned breadcrumbs can work as a substitute. For a gluten-free option, try crushed gluten-free crackers or cornflakes. Just keep in mind that the flavor and texture might vary slightly.
Can I add more vegetables to the casserole?
Absolutely! This recipe is quite versatile. Feel free to add other vegetables like diced carrots, peas, or zucchini to enhance the nutrition and flavor. Just ensure that the additional vegetables are cooked or prepped similarly to maintain even cooking throughout the casserole.
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).