Sunday Baked Vegetable Casserole

Name: Sunday Baked Vegetable Casserole
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h 5 min
Yield: 8 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups chopped zucchini; 2 cups chopped bell peppers; 1 cup sliced mushrooms; 1 cup chopped spinach; 1 cup diced tomatoes; 1 cup corn kernels; 3 cups shredded mozzarella cheese; 1 cup ricotta cheese; 2 cups cooked pasta (optional); 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 teaspoon dried basil; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

I love making this Sunday Baked Vegetable Casserole as a comforting dish for family gatherings. The combination of fresh vegetables, fragrant herbs, and creamy cheese creates a delicious medley that everyone enjoys. Not only is it easy to prepare, but it also allows for plenty of customization based on what you have on hand. Each bite is packed with wholesome flavors, making it a perfect addition to our Sunday dinner table. Plus, it’s a great way to sneak in those veggies for the kiddos!

Created by

Amelia Grant

Last updated on 2026-01-12T00:16:17.470Z

When I first tried making this casserole, I was amazed at how simple it was to layer together all these beautiful vegetables. I decided to experiment by adding a blend of herbs for added depth and flavor. The result was a vibrant, colorful dish that not only looked great but tasted divine!

One tip I learned along the way is to roast the vegetables slightly before baking them in the casserole. This step brings out their natural sweetness and enhances their texture, preventing them from becoming mushy during the baking process. You can really taste the difference!

        What You'll Love About This Recipe
        Colorful array of seasonal vegetables
Rich, creamy texture that's perfect for comfort food
Versatile recipe that can be adapted to your seasonal produce

      

The Importance of Fresh Vegetables

Using fresh vegetables not only enhances the flavor of the casserole but also contributes to its overall texture. Zucchini adds a slight crunch, while bell peppers bring a sweet, juicy element. For optimal results, select seasonal vegetables that are firm and vibrant, as overripe produce can lead to a watery casserole. If you're in a pinch, frozen vegetables can be substituted; just ensure to thaw and drain them thoroughly to prevent excess moisture in the dish.

The mushrooms used in the casserole provide a rich umami flavor, making them a key component. When choosing mushrooms, look for varieties like cremini or button, which hold their shape well during baking. To get the best out of your veggies, aim to sauté them until they are just tender but not fully cooked. This step prevents them from becoming mushy once baked, allowing the casserole to maintain an enjoyable texture.

Cheese Combinations for Creaminess

The creamy texture of this casserole largely comes from the combination of mozzarella and ricotta cheese. Mozzarella melts beautifully, forming a gooey layer on top, while ricotta offers a rich and slightly sweet contrast. If you're looking for lighter alternatives, low-fat cheeses can be used, though they might not yield the same creamy consistency. For added flavor, consider mixing in some sharp cheddar or feta cheese, which can elevate the taste profile and balance the richness of the dish.

When layering cheese, don't be afraid to be generous. Distribution of cheese throughout the casserole ensures every bite is satisfying. To achieve a beautifully browned topping, consider broiling the casserole for a couple of minutes at the end—just keep an eye on it to prevent burning, since broilers can vary in intensity.

Make-Ahead and Customization Tips

This casserole is an excellent make-ahead option. You can prepare it a day in advance and store it covered in the refrigerator. Allow it to come to room temperature before baking to ensure even cooking. For even more convenience, you can freeze the unbaked casserole. Simply cover it tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil. When you’re ready to enjoy it, bake directly from frozen; just extend the baking time by 15-20 minutes to ensure it is heated through.

Feel free to customize this recipe based on your family's preferences or what's available in your pantry. Substituting vegetables, such as broccoli or asparagus, can provide a new twist, while replacing ricotta with cottage cheese yields a lighter option. Experimenting with herbs like thyme or rosemary can create unique flavor profiles that keep this dish fresh and exciting each time you make it!

Ingredients

Gather the following fresh ingredients for a delightful casserole:

Vegetable Ingredients

2 cups chopped zucchini
2 cups chopped bell peppers
1 cup sliced mushrooms
1 cup chopped spinach
1 cup diced tomatoes
1 cup corn kernels

Casserole Ingredients

3 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
1 cup ricotta cheese
2 cups cooked pasta (optional)
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon dried basil
1 teaspoon dried oregano
Salt and pepper to taste

Mix these ingredients well for a deliciously satisfying bake.

Instructions

Let's put this casserole together!

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

Prepare the Vegetables

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the zucchini, bell peppers, and mushrooms. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes until they're slightly tender.

Combine Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the roasted vegetables with chopped spinach, diced tomatoes, corn, mozzarella cheese, ricotta cheese, dried basil, and oregano. Stir until well mixed, and season with salt and pepper.

Assemble the Casserole

Transfer the mixture to a greased 9x13 inch casserole dish. If using pasta, mix it in before transferring.

Bake

Cover the casserole with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.

Serve

Let the casserole rest for about 10 minutes before serving. Enjoy your warm and savory dish with family and friends!

Don't forget to pair it with a refreshing salad!

Pro Tips

You can customize this casserole by adding your favorite vegetables or even shredded chicken for added protein. It's also a great meal prep option as it stores well in the fridge for several days.

Serving Suggestions

This Sunday Baked Vegetable Casserole can be served as a standalone dish or paired with a simple green salad for a wholesome meal. The vibrant colors in the casserole make it a visually appealing centerpiece at any table. For an extra boost of protein, consider serving it alongside grilled chicken or a hearty grain like quinoa. The flavors of thyme or basil mixed into your salad can complement the casserole beautifully.

Another fun serving idea is to portion out the casserole into individual ramekins before baking. This not only offers a delightful presentation but also makes for convenient portions for lunch the next day. You can layer some additional cheese on top of each ramekin for added indulgence.

Storing Leftovers

Leftover casserole can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When reheating, you can pop it back in the oven to maintain that crispy top—just cover it with foil for half the time and uncover it for the remaining time. Alternatively, microwave individual servings for a quick meal, though this may result in a softer texture without that crispy finish.

If you have an abundance of leftovers, you can freeze individual portions. Just ensure they are well-sealed and labeled. When properly stored, these portions can last up to three months. Reheat straight from the freezer in the oven or microwave, making it an easy go-to meal for busy days.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen vegetables instead?

Yes, frozen vegetables work fine! Just thaw and drain any excess moisture before adding.

→ Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can assemble it a day ahead and store it in the refrigerator. Just bake it when ready.

→ What can I substitute for ricotta cheese?

You can use cottage cheese or a vegan cheese alternative if you're looking for dairy-free options.

→ How should I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave.