Mixed Vegetables Casserole
A comforting casserole combining mixed vegetables, creamy chicken soup, cheese, and mayonnaise, topped with buttery Ritz crackers. This versatile dish offers rich flavors and a crispy topping, perfect for family dinners or potlucks, catering to those who enjoy hearty, cheesy vegetable casseroles with a crunchy finish.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large bowl, mix the drained mixed vegetables, chopped onions, chopped celery, cream of chicken soup, grated cheese, and mayonnaise until well combined.
- Break the Ritz crackers into small pieces and melt the margarine.
- Sprinkle the cracker pieces over the casserole mixture and drizzle with the melted margarine.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 35 to 45 minutes until hot and bubbly, and the topping is golden brown.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a splash of milk or chicken broth to the mixture. If you prefer a vegetarian version, substitute the cream of chicken soup with a vegetable-based alternative. You can also swap the Ritz crackers for panko breadcrumbs for a different crunch. Fresh herbs like thyme or parsley can elevate the flavor profile.
Serving Suggestions
This Mixed Vegetables Casserole makes a hearty side dish and pairs beautifully with grilled chicken or pork. Serve it alongside a fresh green salad for a complete meal. For an easy weeknight dinner, consider incorporating it into your repertoire of family casserole favorites, or pair it with a simple protein like baked fish.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place the casserole in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20-25 minutes, or until heated through. You may want to cover it with foil to prevent the topping from burning.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Mixed Vegetables Casserole contains roughly 449 calories, with 6g protein, 27g carbohydrates, and 36g fat. It is a good source of vitamin A (16% of the Daily Value), protein (12% of the Daily Value), and iron (11% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1179mg per serving (51% 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 canned?
Yes, you can use fresh vegetables! Just make sure to steam or sauté them lightly before adding them to the mixture, as this will help ensure they cook through in the baking process.
Is there a way to make this dish gluten-free?
Absolutely! You can use gluten-free crackers or breadcrumbs instead of Ritz crackers, and check that your cream of chicken soup is gluten-free. This way, you can enjoy the casserole without the gluten.
How can I make this casserole spicier?
To add some heat, consider mixing in diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes to the vegetable mixture. You can also try adding a dash of hot sauce to the cream of chicken soup for an extra kick.
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).