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Creamy Winter Vegetable Casserole

Creamy Winter Vegetable Casserole
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A creamy winter vegetable casserole packed with hearty flavors and seasonal veggies, offering a comforting and nourishing meal. This casserole combines the richness of cream and cheese with roasted winter vegetables and fresh herbs, topped with a crispy breadcrumb crust for a deliciously satisfying dish perfect for cozy winter dinners.

Ingredients

Scale

Winter Vegetables

  • 2 cups carrots, peeled and chopped
  • 2 cups parsnips, peeled and chopped
  • 2 cups Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved

Aromatics

  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced

Creamy Sauce

  • 1 cup heavy cream or plant-based cream
  • 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar or Gruyère cheese
  • 1 teaspoon fresh thyme, chopped
  • 1 teaspoon fresh rosemary, chopped

Breadcrumb Topping

  • 1 cup breadcrumbs (regular or gluten-free)
  • 2 tablespoons butter, melted (or plant-based alternative)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Vegetables: Wash, peel, and chop the winter vegetables into bite-sized pieces to ensure even cooking. Roast or sauté the harder vegetables like carrots and parsnips until they are just tender to develop their natural sweetness and prevent sogginess in the casserole.
  2. Make the Creamy Sauce: In a saucepan, gently cook the chopped onion and garlic over medium heat until translucent and fragrant. Add the cream and fresh herbs, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly on low heat. Stir in the grated cheese until melted and smooth, creating a luscious creamy texture.
  3. Combine and Assemble: Mix the roasted vegetables gently into the creamy sauce. Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish, spreading it evenly to coat every vegetable with the creamy sauce.
  4. Add the Breadcrumb Topping: Sprinkle a layer of melted buttered breadcrumbs (or a gluten-free alternative) evenly over the casserole for a golden, crispy crust that contrasts perfectly with the soft filling.
  5. Bake to Perfection: Bake the casserole in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 25-30 minutes until the top is bubbling and golden brown. Let it rest briefly before serving to allow flavors to meld beautifully.

Notes

  • Use fresh, seasonal vegetables for the best flavor and texture.
  • Do not overcook the vegetables initially; they should be tender but still firm.
  • Sauté onions and garlic first to build a rich sauce base.
  • Choose quality cheese that melts smoothly for the creamiest casserole.
  • Allow the casserole to rest after baking to improve texture and flavor fusion.
  • For a vegan version, substitute heavy cream and cheese with plant-based alternatives.
  • To make it gluten-free, use gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed nuts for the topping.

Nutrition

Keywords: winter vegetable casserole, creamy vegetable bake, gluten-free casserole, comforting winter dinner, cheesy vegetable casserole

Find it online: https://recipesbykaeli.com/creamy-winter-vegetable-casserole/