Vegetable Medley Casserole
A hearty vegetable casserole combining tender broccoli, cauliflower, carrots, and crunchy water chestnuts, all coated in a creamy horseradish mayonnaise mixture. Baked with a golden bread crumb topping, this dish offers a flavorful and satisfying side perfect for family dinners or holiday gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Steam the broccoli, cauliflower, and carrots until tender but still firm (al dente).
- Add the drained sliced water chestnuts to the steamed vegetables.
- In a bowl, mix chopped onion, mayonnaise, horseradish, salt, and pepper until well combined.
- Pour the mayonnaise mixture over the vegetables and toss until evenly coated.
- Transfer the mixture into a casserole dish.
- Sprinkle the dry bread crumbs evenly over the top.
- Dot the bread crumbs with small pieces of butter and sprinkle with paprika.
- Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through and the crumbs are golden brown, approximately 30 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider replacing some of the mayonnaise with Greek yogurt. You can also use frozen vegetables if fresh ones are not available—just make sure to thaw and drain them well before mixing. If you're looking for a gluten-free option, substitute the dry bread crumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed rice crackers.
Serving Suggestions
This Vegetable Medley Casserole pairs beautifully with Beer Hot Rolls for a comforting meal. Serve it alongside a fresh salad or grilled chicken for a complete dinner. It also makes a great side dish for holiday gatherings or potlucks, offering a delicious vegetarian option to complement other dishes.
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 set at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. You can cover it with foil to prevent the breadcrumbs from browning too much during reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Vegetable Medley Casserole contains roughly 243 calories, with 5g protein, 35g carbohydrates, and 10g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (52% of the Daily Value), vitamin A (41% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (23% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and protein. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1568mg per serving (68% 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 a day in advance. Simply follow the instructions up to the baking step, cover it tightly, and refrigerate. When ready to bake, allow it to sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before placing it in the oven.
Is there a vegan version of this casserole?
Absolutely! To make a vegan version, substitute the mayonnaise with a plant-based alternative and use a non-dairy cheese or nutritional yeast for added flavor. You can also swap the butter for a vegan butter alternative when dotting the breadcrumbs.
What can I add to this casserole for extra flavor?
Consider adding garlic powder, nutritional yeast, or a splash of lemon juice for added brightness. You can also include cooked protein like shredded chicken or tofu to make it a heartier dish, or experiment with different vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini.
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).