Carrot Cassantro
A comforting casserole blending sweet carrots with cheesy, buttery flavors topped with crunchy crackers, perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Peel and slice the carrots, then add sugar to them.
- Cover the carrots with water and cook until tender.
- In a double boiler, melt the butter and Velveeta cheese, then add grated onions and Tabasco, cooking until creamy.
- Drain the cooked carrots and place them in a baking dish.
- Pour the cheese sauce over the carrots.
- Crumble Ritz crackers and sprinkle over the top.
- Bake at 375°F for 30 to 35 minutes or until the top is browned.
Tips & Substitutions
For extra flavor, consider adding a pinch of garlic powder to the cheese sauce. If you don't have Velveeta cheese, a combination of cream cheese and shredded cheddar can work. When cooking the carrots, ensure they are just tender, as they will continue to cook in the oven. You can also experiment with different types of crackers on top, such as buttery round crackers for a different texture.
Serving Suggestions
Carrot Cassantro makes a delightful side dish for grilled meats or roasted chicken. Pair it with a fresh salad or serve alongside easy carrot bread for a comforting meal. This dish also works well for potlucks or family gatherings, providing a unique twist that complements various main courses.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place the dish in an oven preheated to 350°F for about 15-20 minutes, or until warmed through. You can also microwave individual portions, but be careful not to overheat, as the cheese can become rubbery.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Carrot Cassantro contains roughly 2862 calories, with 6g protein, 22g carbohydrates, and 306g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (54% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and protein. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2097mg per serving (91% 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 use frozen carrots instead of fresh?
Yes, you can use frozen carrots; just be sure to thaw and drain them before adding to the dish. You may need to adjust the cooking time, as frozen carrots can become tender more quickly than fresh ones. Keep an eye on them to ensure they don't become mushy.
Is there a way to make this dish lighter?
To lighten this dish, you could substitute a lower-fat cheese for the Velveeta and use light butter or olive oil instead. Additionally, reducing the amount of butter and sugar can help maintain flavor while cutting calories. You can also add more vegetables, such as steamed broccoli or peas, for added nutrition.
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the dish up to the baking step, cover it tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to serve, simply bake it straight from the fridge, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time to ensure it heats through evenly.
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).