Vegetable Au Gratin
A creamy, cheesy vegetable au gratin featuring tender mixed vegetables topped with crunchy bread crumbs, perfect as a comforting side dish for family dinners or gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook the frozen mixed vegetables in boiling water just until separated; drain.
- Combine milk, black pepper, grated sharp cheese, cream of mushroom soup, salt, minced onion, and melted butter in a bowl.
- Pour the mixture into a greased 2-quart casserole dish.
- Melt butter and stir in bread crumbs.
- Sprinkle the bread crumbs over the vegetables in the casserole.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 1 hour until hot and bubbly, and bread crumbs are golden.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a layer of sour cream or Greek yogurt to the cheese mixture. If you want a bit more flavor, try incorporating garlic powder or other herbs like thyme. You can replace the frozen vegetables with fresh ones, just adjust the cooking time accordingly. This Vegetable Au Gratin recipe pairs beautifully with Mandarin Spinach for a fresh side dish.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this Vegetable Au Gratin as a comforting side dish at family gatherings or potlucks. It goes well with roasted meats or can be enjoyed as a main dish for a light vegetarian meal. Consider pairing it with a simple salad or a warm loaf of bread to round out the meal.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the casserole in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, about 20 minutes. You can also microwave individual portions for quicker reheating, but the texture may vary slightly.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Vegetable Au Gratin contains roughly 531 calories, with 15g protein, 102g carbohydrates, and 13g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (65% of the Daily Value), iron (63% of the Daily Value), and calcium (50% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1644mg per serving (71% 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 instead of frozen. Just steam or blanch them briefly until tender before mixing them into the casserole. This ensures they cook evenly and retain their vibrant color.
What type of cheese works best for this recipe?
While sharp cheese adds a nice flavor, you can experiment with other cheeses like mozzarella, gouda, or even a blend for a unique taste. Just make sure to choose a cheese that melts well.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. Just be sure to cover it tightly with foil to keep it fresh.
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).