Garden Supper Casserole
A comforting vegetable casserole with cheesy bread topping, rich creamy sauce, and fresh tomato slices, perfect for family dinners and versatile for many tastes.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Mix bread cubes, shredded cheddar cheese, and 2 tablespoons melted butter; spread half the mixture in a greased 1-quart casserole dish and top with cooked peas.
- Cook and stir onion in 3 tablespoons butter until tender.
- Blend in flour, salt, and pepper.
- Cook over low heat, stirring until mixture is bubbly.
- Remove from heat.
- Stir in milk; heat to boiling, stirring constantly.
- Boil and stir for 1 minute.
- Stir in cooked meat and pour over the peas.
- Arrange tomato slices on top and sprinkle with remaining bread mixture.
- Bake uncovered for 25 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter version, consider using whole grain bread or a low-fat cheese alternative. You can also add more vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini for extra flavor and nutrition. If you prefer a vegetarian option, omit any meat and increase the cheese for a richer taste. Make sure to sauté the onions until they're golden for the best flavor.
Serving Suggestions
This casserole pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal. You might also enjoy it alongside garlic bread or a light soup for a cozy dinner. Consider serving with a side of Rainbow Molded Salad for a refreshing contrast to the warm casserole.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions for a quick meal, but the oven method will help retain the casserole's texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Garden Supper Casserole contains roughly 693 calories, with 20g protein, 80g carbohydrates, and 33g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (47% of the Daily Value), protein (41% of the Daily Value), and calcium (37% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2523mg per serving (110% 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 up to the baking step, cover it, and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, simply remove it from the fridge and bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time if it's cold.
What types of meat can I add to this casserole?
Cooked chicken, ham, or turkey work well in this casserole. You can use leftovers from previous meals or rotisserie chicken for convenience. If you want to keep it vegetarian, consider using a meat substitute or just loading up on extra vegetables.
Can I freeze this casserole?
Yes, you can freeze it before or after baking. If freezing before baking, wrap it tightly and store it for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before baking. If freezing after baking, ensure it's completely cooled before wrapping and storing. Reheat in the oven until hot throughout.
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).