Sunday Baked Vegetable Casserole

Name: Sunday Baked Vegetable Casserole
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 1 h
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups of broccoli florets; 1 cup of diced bell peppers; 1 cup of chopped zucchini; 1 cup of cherry tomatoes, halved; 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese; 1 cup of ricotta cheese; 1 egg; 1 teaspoon of Italian seasoning; 1 cup of breadcrumbs; 1/2 cup of grated parmesan cheese; 2 tablespoons of olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

I absolutely love making this Sunday Baked Vegetable Casserole on lazy weekend afternoons. It feels like the perfect comfort food, showcasing a medley of colorful veggies and rich flavors that my family always enjoys. The best part is how easy it is to assemble; I can throw in whatever vegetables I have on hand, from zucchini to bell peppers, and top it off with cheesy goodness. This dish not only nourishes the body but lifts the spirit, making Sundays a little brighter.

Created by

Maya Richardson

Last updated on 2026-01-13T19:25:22.861Z

One of my favorite memories is preparing this casserole with my kids on a rainy Sunday afternoon. Each of us would choose our favorite veggies, chop them up, and layer them in the dish. It became a fun family tradition that brought everyone together, and the smell wafting through the house as it baked created a cozy atmosphere. To me, there’s nothing better than sharing a delicious meal that I know everyone contributed to.

Over time, I discovered that adding a sprinkle of fresh herbs really elevates the flavors in this dish. Thyme or rosemary brings a wonderful aroma that blends beautifully with the roasted vegetables. Plus, using a crunchy topping of breadcrumbs and cheese ensures every bite is satisfying. This isn't just a casserole; it's a celebration of good food and family!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Packed with nutritious veggies for a wholesome meal
Comforting and cheesy with a crispy topping
Great way to use leftover vegetables in your fridge

      

Choosing the Right Vegetables

This dish is incredibly versatile, which allows you to personalize it based on the vegetables you prefer or have on hand. Broccoli, bell peppers, zucchini, and cherry tomatoes serve as a fantastic base, but don’t hesitate to throw in other veggies like cauliflower, spinach, or even sweet corn. Aim for roughly the same volume if you’re substituting, and remember that firmer vegetables like carrots or parsnips should be blanched before mixing in to ensure even cooking.

When prepping your veggies, uniformity is key. Chop them into similar-sized pieces to promote even cooking. This prevents some chunks from being mushy while others remain crisp. Additionally, salting the veggies before combining them with the ricotta mixture helps draw out excess moisture, preventing the casserole from becoming too watery.

Getting the Perfect Topping

The topping is where you can elevate this dish, adding a crunchy texture that contrasts beautifully with the creamy base. Using a mix of breadcrumbs and grated parmesan cheese creates a rich, cheesy crust. For added flavor, consider incorporating herbs into the topping or swapping out the breadcrumbs for crushed whole grain crackers if you're looking for a healthier option. Ensure the crumbs are evenly coated with olive oil; this helps them brown beautifully in the oven.

If you prefer a nutty flavor, you can substitute half of the breadcrumbs with finely chopped nuts, like almonds or pecans. They will provide a delightful crunch while imparting a unique taste that complements the vegetables. Just be mindful of any guests with nut allergies when serving this dish.

Ingredients

Vegetables

2 cups of broccoli florets
1 cup of diced bell peppers
1 cup of chopped zucchini
1 cup of cherry tomatoes, halved

Casserole Base

1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese
1 cup of ricotta cheese
1 egg
1 teaspoon of Italian seasoning

Topping

1 cup of breadcrumbs
1/2 cup of grated parmesan cheese
2 tablespoons of olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Preheat the oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

Prepare the vegetables

In a large bowl, mix together the broccoli, bell peppers, zucchini, and cherry tomatoes. Season with salt and pepper.

Make the casserole base

In another bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, egg, mozzarella cheese, and Italian seasoning. Mix until thoroughly blended.

Layer the casserole

Spread the vegetable mixture evenly in a greased baking dish. Pour the cheese mixture over the vegetables and combine gently.

Add the topping

In a small bowl, mix breadcrumbs, parmesan cheese, and olive oil until crumbly. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the casserole.

Bake

Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 30 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the top is golden brown.

Cool and serve

Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, consider incorporating your favorite herbs or spices into the cheese mixture. You can also experiment with different vegetables based on what's in season or in your fridge!

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

This casserole is an excellent make-ahead dish, ideal for busy weekends or meal prepping. You can assemble the casserole a day in advance, cover it tightly with foil, and store it in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to bake, no need to let it come to room temperature; just increase the initial baking time by 10-15 minutes to ensure it heats through evenly.

If you have leftovers, they can easily be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheating is best done in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes, allowing the top to regain some of its original crispness. Alternatively, you can microwave portions, though this might result in a softer crust.

Serving Suggestions

This baked vegetable casserole makes a fantastic main dish, but it also pairs wonderfully with various sides. Consider serving it alongside a light salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette to balance the richness of the cheese. Crusty bread or garlic knots can complement the meal as well, perfect for soaking up any delicious sauce left behind on your plate.

For a heartier meal, you might add protein, such as grilled chicken or baked tofu, either mixed in or served alongside. This not only enhances the flavors but also makes it a more filling dish for larger appetites or gatherings. Feel free to play with seasoning, perhaps adding a sprinkle of red pepper flakes or fresh herbs before serving to brighten the dish.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the casserole a day in advance and keep it in the refrigerator. Just bake it when you're ready to serve.

→ What vegetables work best?

You can use any vegetables you prefer! Other great options include spinach, carrots, or even sweet potatoes.

→ Can I freeze leftovers?

Absolutely! This casserole freezes well. Just make sure to let it cool completely before freezing in an airtight container.

→ How can I make this recipe vegan?

You can substitute dairy cheese with vegan cheese and use flax eggs instead of real eggs.