Herbed Vegetable Cheese Casserole
A savory baked casserole combining peas, corn, tomatoes, and melty cheese, layered with crunchy cracker topping and herbs. Perfect for family dinners and vegetable lovers.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook peas and corn in a small amount of water for about 3 minutes, then drain.
- Mix together cracker crumbs, melted margarine, oregano, basil, and sage to create the cracker topping.
- In a buttered casserole, layer half of the cooked vegetables.
- Add a layer of sliced tomatoes on top of the vegetables.
- Sprinkle half of the cracker mixture over the tomatoes.
- Repeat with remaining vegetables, then top with American cheese slices, remaining tomatoes, and the remaining cracker mixture.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 40 minutes until bubbly and golden.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding fresh herbs like thyme or parsley to the vegetable layers. You can substitute the American cheese with cheddar for a sharper taste. If you’re short on time, use pre-made cracker crumbs and melted butter instead of margarine. This casserole works well with frozen or fresh vegetables, giving you flexibility based on what's available.
Serving Suggestions
This Herbed Vegetable Cheese Casserole is perfect as a hearty main dish or a side for grilled meats. Pair it with a simple green salad or crusty bread for a complete meal. It also goes well with dishes like Cheddar Potato Gratin, making it a versatile addition to your dinner table.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover casserole can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, cover with foil and warm in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 20 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions for 2-3 minutes, checking frequently to avoid overheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Herbed Vegetable Cheese Casserole contains roughly 246 calories, with 11g protein, 51g carbohydrates, and 7g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (115% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (33% of the Daily Value), and iron (22% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and vitamin A. It also contributes 32g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
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 ensure they are cooked until tender before layering in the casserole. Fresh peas, corn, and even bell peppers would work well. Adjust the cooking time as needed to ensure they are cooked through.
Is it possible to make this dish vegan?
Absolutely! To make this casserole vegan, substitute the margarine with a plant-based butter and use vegan cheese alternatives. Ensure that your crackers are also dairy-free. This way, you can enjoy a delicious vegetarian version of this recipe without any animal products.
How can I add more protein to this dish?
To increase the protein content, consider adding cooked beans, such as chickpeas or black beans, to the vegetable layers. Alternatively, you can mix in some cooked quinoa or lentils. These additions will not only boost protein but also enhance the overall flavor and texture of the casserole.
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).