Sunday Baked Vegetable Casserole

Name: Sunday Baked Vegetable Casserole
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h 5 min
Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups zucchini, sliced; 1 cup bell peppers, diced; 1 cup spinach, chopped; 1 cup mushrooms, sliced; 1 onion, diced; 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese; 1 cup ricotta cheese; 3 eggs; 1/4 cup milk; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 cup breadcrumbs

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

I love making this Sunday Baked Vegetable Casserole for my family; it has become a cherished tradition in our home. Each bite is packed with vibrant vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, and spinach, all harmonizing under a layer of golden cheese. I enjoy experimenting with different seasonal veggies, and it's a fantastic way to use up what I have on hand. This dish is not only healthy and filling but also brings everyone together at the table, creating lasting memories during our Sunday suppers.

Created by

Summer Blake

Last updated on 2026-01-13T18:13:17.112Z

When I first made this casserole, I was surprised by how easy it was to bring all those flavors together. The secret is in roasting the vegetables just before baking, which concentrates their sweetness and adds depth. I remember making it on a rainy Sunday, and the comforting aroma filled the kitchen, warming us from the inside out.

Over time, I've learned to customize this recipe based on what's fresh at the market. For example, adding fresh herbs like basil or thyme really elevates the flavor. Plus, it’s a versatile dish that everyone loves, making it a perfect centerpiece for our family gatherings.

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Loaded with nutritious seasonal vegetables
Melts in your mouth with a cheesy topping
Easy to customize with your favorite ingredients

      

Choosing the Right Vegetables

The beauty of the Sunday Baked Vegetable Casserole lies in its flexibility with seasonal vegetables. While this recipe features zucchini, bell peppers, mushrooms, and spinach, feel free to substitute with other veggies like carrots, broccoli, or even sweet potatoes. Just ensure that the vegetables you select have a similar cooking time, as this will help them cook evenly and retain their vibrant colors and nutrients.

When slicing or dicing your vegetables, aim for uniformity in size. This not only promotes even cooking but also enhances the visual appeal of the casserole. Opt for fresh, firm produce over frozen, as they deliver better texture and flavor. If you're using frozen vegetables, be sure to thaw and drain any excess moisture to avoid a soggy casserole.

Building Layers for Flavor

As you assemble the casserole, consider layering the vegetables and cheeses to create depth in flavor. Start with a layer of the vegetable mixture followed by a sprinkle of mozzarella, and repeat until the dish is filled. This method allows each bite to harmoniously blend the creamy cheese with the freshness of the vegetables, creating a delightful texture that melts in your mouth.

Don't skimp on the garlic powder! It adds a subtle aromatic background that elevates the overall taste of the dish. Additionally, you can experiment by adding other herbs like thyme or basil, which will complement the vegetables beautifully and offer an extra kick of flavor.

Storage and Reheating Tips

One of the great advantages of this casserole is its make-ahead potential. You can prepare the casserole a day in advance, cover it tightly with plastic wrap, and store it in the refrigerator. When you're ready to bake, simply take it out and let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before placing it in the oven to ensure even cooking.

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, simply pop them in a 350°F (175°C) oven until heated through, typically about 15-20 minutes. For a crispy top, you might want to uncover the dish for the last few minutes of reheating.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to make a delicious Sunday Baked Vegetable Casserole:

Vegetables

2 cups zucchini, sliced
1 cup bell peppers, diced
1 cup spinach, chopped
1 cup mushrooms, sliced
1 onion, diced

Baking Essentials

2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
1 cup ricotta cheese
3 eggs
1/4 cup milk
1 teaspoon garlic powder
Salt and pepper to taste
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 cup breadcrumbs

Feel free to adjust the quantities and types of vegetables based on your preferences or what you have available.

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your casserole:

Preheat and Prepare

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add onion and garlic, sauté until tender.

Cook the Vegetables

Add the zucchini, bell peppers, mushrooms, and spinach to the skillet. Season with salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes until the veggies are softened.

Mix Cheeses and Eggs

In a large bowl, combine ricotta cheese, eggs, and milk. Mix well and fold in the sautéed vegetables.

Assemble the Casserole

Pour the vegetable mixture into a greased baking dish. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella and breadcrumbs on top.

Bake

Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes or until the top is golden and bubbly. Let it cool for a few minutes before serving.

Serve warm and enjoy your flavorful casserole!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, try incorporating herbs like basil or oregano into the vegetable mixture. You can also substitute different cheeses based on your preference.

Making it Your Own

This casserole is easily customizable to suit various dietary needs. For a gluten-free version, substitute breadcrumbs with crushed gluten-free crackers or almond flour. If you’re looking for a plant-based option, replace the ricotta and mozzarella with dairy-free cheese alternatives and use flax eggs instead of regular eggs to bind the mixture together.

You can also introduce proteins like cooked chicken, turkey, or beans to make this dish heartier. If opting for proteins, adjust the seasoning accordingly, as meats can contribute additional flavors that might require counterbalancing with herbs and spices.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your casserole comes out too watery, it may be due to excess moisture from the vegetables. To mitigate this, make sure to sauté your vegetables long enough to allow the moisture to evaporate. Alternatively, you can skip the sautéing and roast the vegetables first, which will enhance their flavors and reduce moisture.

Another common issue is a lack of browning on top. If your casserole isn’t golden and bubbly after the suggested baking time, switch the oven to broil for the final 2-3 minutes. Keep a close eye on it, as broiling can quickly go from perfectly browned to burnt.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the baked vegetable casserole hot from the oven, garnished with fresh herbs like parsley or basil for an added burst of flavor and color. Pair it with a crisp side salad or some crusty bread to balance the richness of the cheese and vegetables.

This casserole also makes an excellent side dish for grilled meats or roasted poultry. The fresh vegetable flavors complement the robust tastes of grilled foods, making it a perfect addition to any Sunday supper or family gathering.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can assemble it the day before, cover it, and store it in the refrigerator. Just add a few extra minutes to the bake time if you chill it.

→ What can I substitute for ricotta cheese?

Cream cheese or cottage cheese can work well as substitutes for ricotta in this recipe.

→ Is it possible to freeze the casserole?

Yes, you can freeze the casserole before baking. Just be sure to cover it tightly. Thaw it in the fridge overnight before baking.

→ What sides go well with this casserole?

This casserole is hearty enough to stand alone, but it pairs nicely with a light salad or crusty bread.