Easy Vegetable Casserole
A quick and hearty vegetable casserole combining mixed vegetables, cheddar cheese, and creamy mayonnaise, topped with crackers and butter for a comforting, cheesy side dish or light meal.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix together the can of mixed vegetables, grated Cheddar cheese, mayonnaise, chopped onion (if using), and chopped celery (if using).
- Crumble crackers on top of the mixture and dot with butter.
- Bake at 350°F for 20 minutes until hot and bubbly.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, try adding a splash of milk or sour cream to the mixture. You can substitute the mixed vegetables with fresh ones or even use leftover vegetables from other meals. If you're looking for a lighter version, consider using Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise. Chopped bell peppers or mushrooms can also enhance the flavor. This dish pairs nicely with a fresh side salad, like Fresh Vegetable Soup(Lo-Cal).
Serving Suggestions
This vegetable casserole makes a great main dish or side. Serve it alongside a simple green salad or as part of a potluck spread. It pairs beautifully with crusty bread or rolls and can be complemented by a protein like grilled chicken or baked fish. For a heartier meal, consider serving it with a side of Make Ahead Potato Salad.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover casserole should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply cover with foil and bake at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions for about 2-3 minutes, ensuring they are warm throughout before serving.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Easy Vegetable Casserole contains roughly 727 calories, with 18g protein, 69g carbohydrates, and 42g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (36% of the Daily Value), iron (29% of the Daily Value), and calcium (29% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A and dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 775mg per serving (34% 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 mixed vegetables instead of canned?
Yes, frozen mixed vegetables are a great substitute! Just thaw and drain them before mixing to ensure the casserole doesn't become watery. The cooking time remains the same, so you'll still achieve that hot and bubbly finish.
How can I make this casserole spicier?
To add some heat, consider mixing in diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the vegetable mixture. You could also sprinkle some red pepper flakes on top before baking for an extra kick. Adjust the amount based on your spice preference.
Is this dish suitable for vegetarian diets?
Yes, this Easy Vegetable Casserole is vegetarian-friendly! It's packed with vegetables and can be further customized by adding your favorite plant-based ingredients. Just ensure that the cheese and mayonnaise used are free from animal rennet, if strictly adhering to vegetarian standards.
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).