Sunday Baked Vegetable Casserole

Name: Sunday Baked Vegetable Casserole
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h
Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups chopped broccoli; 1 cup diced bell peppers; 1 cup sliced zucchini; 1 cup shredded carrots; 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese; 1 cup ricotta cheese; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1 cup marinara sauce; 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning; 2 tablespoons olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 cup breadcrumbs

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

I love making this Sunday Baked Vegetable Casserole for my family, especially when we gather around the table for a cozy meal. The colorful array of vegetables layered with rich cheese and savory herbs creates a delightful dish that not only tastes amazing but also embraces the essence of comfort food. Every bite is a celebration of fresh flavors, and it’s a great way to use up any leftover veggies. I promise, it’ll become a staple in your weekend meals, just like it has in mine!

Created by

Aubrey Whitman

Last updated on 2026-01-13T21:34:16.392Z

When I first created this casserole recipe, I was inspired by a mix of seasonal vegetables and a love for baked dishes. I wanted something hearty that would come together without too much hassle, encapsulating the joys of Sunday family dinners. Cooking the vegetables before baking allows their flavors to really shine through, making it a vibrant centerpiece on the dining table.

One tip I always share when making this dish is to sprinkle a bit of fresh herbs before serving. It not only enhances the aroma but also adds a lovely touch of freshness to each slice. This casserole is not just delicious; it’s a feast for the eyes!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        A medley of vibrant vegetables packed with nutrients
Comforting layers of cheese that melt beautifully
Perfect for meal prep, leftovers heat up well

      

Maximizing Vegetable Flavor

One of the joys of this casserole is its versatility when it comes to vegetables. While the recipe features a colorful mix of broccoli, bell peppers, zucchini, and carrots, feel free to substitute with any seasonal vegetables you have on hand. For example, asparagus or spinach can add a unique twist. Just be mindful of the water content in certain veggies; for instance, if using eggplant, consider salting it beforehand to draw out moisture. This way, you'll maintain the right texture without compromising the dish's integrity.

When sautéing the vegetables, allow them to reach a nice golden hue—this caramelization enhances their natural sweetness and depth. Keep the heat at medium to prevent burning, and stir occasionally for even cooking. You can also add onions or garlic for an added layer of flavor. Just sauté them for a couple of minutes before adding the other vegetables to let them soften and release their aromatic oils.

Cheese Layering Techniques

The cheesy layer is where this casserole really shines! The combination of ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan not only contributes to a rich flavor but also ensures a delightful gooey consistency. Don't rush the mixing process; make sure the cheeses are well combined, as this will create a smoother finish throughout the dish. If you prefer a bit of tang, consider adding a splash of lemon juice or a sprinkle of feta cheese into the cheese mixture.

To achieve that perfectly golden and crispy topping, keep an eye on the breadcrumbs while baking. If you find that they brown too quickly, loosely cover the casserole with foil during the last few minutes of baking to prevent burning. Additionally, a little drizzle of olive oil over the breadcrumbs before baking can enhance their crunch and flavor—my personal twist!

Make Ahead and Serving Suggestions

This casserole is an excellent make-ahead option for busy weekends. You can prepare it the night before and keep it covered in the fridge, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully overnight. When you're ready to bake, simply add an extra 10 minutes to the covered baking time to ensure it heats thoroughly. This method not only saves time but also makes the dish even more flavorful.

For serving, consider pairing the casserole with a simple green salad or crusty bread to complement the dish's richness. You can also serve it as a main alongside protein, such as grilled chicken or baked salmon, to create a hearty feast that everyone will enjoy. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container, and they reheat beautifully in the oven or microwave, maintaining their delicious flavors.

Ingredients

Gather these fresh and healthy ingredients to create your wonderful casserole:

Fresh Vegetables

2 cups chopped broccoli
1 cup diced bell peppers
1 cup sliced zucchini
1 cup shredded carrots
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

Cheese and Sauce

2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
1 cup ricotta cheese
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 cup marinara sauce
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

Others

2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
1 cup breadcrumbs

Ensure all ingredients are fresh for the best flavor and texture.

Instructions

Follow these easy steps to create your Sunday Baked Vegetable Casserole:

Preheat the Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C).

Sauté the Vegetables

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped broccoli, bell peppers, zucchini, and carrots. Sauté for about 8-10 minutes until they are tender and slightly caramelized.

Season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.

Mix the Cheese

In a bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, half of the mozzarella cheese, and Parmesan. Mix well to create a creamy layer that will hold the casserole together.

Layer the Ingredients

In a greased baking dish, spread a layer of marinara sauce on the bottom. Add half of the sautéed vegetables, followed by dollops of the cheese mixture. Repeat with another layer of marinara, veggies, and cheese.

Top with Breadcrumbs

Finish by sprinkling the remaining mozzarella cheese and the breadcrumbs evenly over the top. This will create a crispy golden crust as it bakes.

Bake the Casserole

Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes or until bubbly and golden brown on top.

Cool and Serve

Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before slicing. Serve hot and enjoy the delightful flavors!

Enjoy your delicious baked vegetable casserole with a side salad or crusty bread!

Pro Tips

Feel free to substitute any of your favorite vegetables or cheeses to personalize the dish. Adding a sprinkle of fresh herbs like basil or parsley before serving enhances flavor tremendously.

Ingredient Substitutions

Don’t hesitate to get creative with vegetables! If you have greens like spinach or kale on hand, they can be added towards the end of the sautéing phase. They wilt down quickly and blend seamlessly into the casserole. For a slightly different flavor, try adding roasted red peppers or sun-dried tomatoes for added depth.

If you're looking for a dairy-free option, you can substitute cashew cream for ricotta and vegan mozzarella for the cheeses. This will ensure you maintain that creamy texture while keeping it plant-based. For those watching their carbs, consider using cauliflower rice as a base layer instead of breadcrumbs.

Storing and Freezing Tips

If you happen to have leftovers, they store well for up to three days in the refrigerator, making them perfect for quick lunches throughout the week. Just be sure to reheat them in the oven for the best texture, as microwaving may lead to a soggy bottom layer. You can cover the dish with foil while reheating to retain moisture.

For longer storage, consider freezing portions of the casserole. Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe dish. It can be frozen for up to three months. To reheat, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and then bake it at 375°F (190°C) until heated through and bubbly, usually around 40-50 minutes.

Variations for Every Palate

This casserole can easily be customized according to your taste preferences or dietary needs. For a Mediterranean twist, add olives, artichoke hearts, or feta cheese to the layers. If you're seeking a spicier kick, incorporate jalapeños or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes into the vegetable mixture.

If you're catering to a crowd, you can easily scale this recipe up by doubling the ingredients and using a larger baking dish. Just make sure to adjust the baking time accordingly, as a thicker casserole may require additional time in the oven to ensure even cooking throughout.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen vegetables?

Yes, you can use frozen vegetables, but be sure to thaw and drain them to avoid excess moisture.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven before serving.

→ Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole a day in advance, cover it well, and bake it just before serving.

→ What can I serve with the casserole?

This casserole pairs well with a fresh green salad or crusty garlic bread for a complete meal.