Here’s a comforting Golden Cheesy Vegetable Bake that’s perfect as a side dish or a vegetarian main course.
Ingredients (Serves 4–6)
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 2 cups cauliflower florets
- 2 carrots, sliced
- 1 cup sweet corn
- 1 cup green peas
- 2 tbsp butter
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 2 cups milk
- 1 tsp garlic, minced
- ½ tsp black pepper
- ½ tsp salt (or to taste)
- ½ tsp mixed herbs or Italian seasoning
- 1½ cups grated cheddar or mozzarella cheese
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan (optional)
- ¼ cup breadcrumbs (optional, for a crispy topping)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 190°C (375°F).
- Boil or steam the broccoli, cauliflower, carrots, corn, and peas for 4–5 minutes until just tender. Drain well.
- In a saucepan, melt the butter and sauté the garlic for about 30 seconds.
- Stir in the flour and cook for 1 minute.
- Gradually whisk in the milk until smooth. Cook until the sauce thickens.
- Add salt, pepper, herbs, and 1 cup of the cheese. Stir until melted.
- Fold the vegetables into the cheese sauce and transfer to a greased baking dish.
- Sprinkle the remaining cheese, Parmesan (if using), and breadcrumbs over the top.
- Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbling.
- Let it rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve with garlic bread or dinner rolls.
- Pair with grilled chicken, roast meat, or enjoy it as a vegetarian main with a fresh salad.
This style of cheesy vegetable bake is a classic comfort dish that combines lightly cooked vegetables with a creamy cheese sauce and a golden baked topping. (extension.wvu.edu)
