Cheese Vegetables
Cheese Vegetables is a cheesy, savory casserole combining mixed vegetables, water chestnuts, and melted Cheez Whiz, topped with crunchy crackers—perfect for family dinners or potlucks.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix the drained mixed vegetables, diced onion, and sliced water chestnuts in a 9 x 13-inch pan.
- Melt together 1/2 stick of butter and the Cheez Whiz over low heat until combined.
- Pour the melted cheese mixture over the vegetable mixture in the pan.
- Crush the crackers and evenly spread them over the top of the vegetables.
- Melt 1 stick of butter and pour it over the crushed crackers.
- Bake the casserole at 350°F (175°C) for 30 minutes until bubbly and golden.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a bit of sour cream or cream cheese to the cheese mixture. If you're looking for a healthier option, you can substitute the mixed vegetables with fresh or frozen veggies, and use low-fat cheese spread instead of Cheez Whiz. For extra crunch, try adding some chopped nuts on top.
Serving Suggestions
This cheese vegetable casserole is a versatile dish that pairs beautifully with roasted chicken or grilled meats. For a complete meal, serve it alongside a fresh garden salad or some crusty bread. It also makes a great side dish for any holiday gathering, complementing dishes like Sweet Potato-Pumpkin Pie.
Storage & Reheating
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place the casserole in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions for a quick reheat.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cheese Vegetables contains roughly 321 calories, with 4g protein, 26g carbohydrates, and 23g fat. It is a good source of vitamin A (14% 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 vegetables instead of canned?
Yes, frozen mixed vegetables work perfectly in this recipe. Just make sure to thaw and drain them before mixing them with the other ingredients. This can enhance the flavor and texture of the dish.
What can I use instead of Cheez Whiz?
If you prefer a homemade cheese sauce, you can melt a combination of shredded cheddar and cream cheese together as a substitute. This will give you a richer flavor and allow you to control the ingredients.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it's coming straight from the fridge.
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).