Cheesy Mixed Vegetable Casserole
A delightful cheesy vegetable casserole featuring crisp steamed mixed vegetables, crunchy cheese crackers, and a creamy cheddar topping, perfect for family dinners or potlucks.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Steam the frozen mixed vegetables, celery, and onions a few minutes in the microwave on High or in a saucepan until still crisp.
- Pour the steamed vegetables into a greased 2 1/2-quart casserole dish.
- Top the casserole with crushed cheese crackers and drizzle with melted margarine.
- Bake at 350°F for 30 minutes until bubbly and golden.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider mixing in some garlic powder or Italian seasoning with the vegetables. If you prefer a lighter version, Greek yogurt can be used in place of mayonnaise. You can also swap out the Cheddar cheese for a different variety, such as mozzarella or Monterey Jack, to change the flavor profile slightly. For a crunchier topping, try adding some crushed nuts to the cheese crackers.
Serving Suggestions
This Cheesy Mixed Vegetable Casserole pairs beautifully with a simple green salad or crusty bread for a complete meal. It can also be served as a side dish alongside grilled chicken or meatloaf. For a fun twist, consider serving it alongside Big Mac Pancakes for a unique breakfast-for-dinner experience.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, place the casserole in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 20 minutes or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions for 1-2 minutes, but the oven will help retain the crispiness of the cracker topping.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cheesy Mixed Vegetable Casserole contains roughly 996 calories, with 19g protein, 69g carbohydrates, and 73g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (38% of the Daily Value), calcium (29% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (23% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1425mg per serving (62% 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 fresh vegetables instead of frozen?
Yes, you can use fresh vegetables! Just make sure to steam them until they are tender but still crisp. Fresh vegetables may require a bit more cooking time compared to frozen ones, so keep an eye on them to avoid overcooking.
Is this casserole suitable for vegetarian diets?
Yes, this casserole is suitable for vegetarian diets as it contains no meat products. However, always double-check your ingredients, especially the cheese and crackers, to ensure they meet vegetarian standards. It’s a great addition to vegetarian recipes for gatherings.
Can I prepare this casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole a day in advance. Just assemble it in the dish, cover with plastic wrap, and refrigerate. When ready to bake, remove the wrap and follow the baking instructions. This is a great time-saver for busy weeknights.
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).