Sunday Baked Vegetable Casserole

Name: Sunday Baked Vegetable Casserole
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 1 h
Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups zucchini, sliced; 1 cup bell peppers, diced; 1 cup spinach, fresh; 1 cup mushrooms, sliced; 1 onion, chopped; 1 cup ricotta cheese; 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded; 1/2 cup cheddar cheese, shredded; 2 eggs; 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

I love making this Sunday Baked Vegetable Casserole for family gatherings. It’s the perfect way to utilize fresh vegetables and create a comforting dish that everyone can enjoy. Each layer is packed with flavor, from the savory herbs to the cheesy goodness on top. This recipe is easy to modify depending on what’s in season, allowing for endless variations. Not to mention, it’s a great make-ahead option that can be popped in the oven right before serving, making my Sundays that much more relaxing.

Created by

Tessa Wright

Last updated on 2026-01-13T19:22:17.909Z

When I first made this casserole, I wasn't sure how the combination of vegetables would hold up. I used a mix of zucchini, bell peppers, and spinach, which created a vibrant look and a delicious taste. Baking it really brings out their natural sweetness and enhances the flavor significantly.

What surprised me most was how well the cheese melted throughout the dish, creating a creamy texture that binds everything together. I recommend using a blend of mozzarella and cheddar for a perfect balance of flavor and texture that will have everyone coming back for seconds!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Colorful array of vegetables packed with nutrients
Creamy, cheesy topping that complements the veggies perfectly
Great for meal prep and feeds a crowd easily

      

Key Techniques for Flavorful Layers

When constructing your casserole, it's important to layer the vegetables correctly. Start with the sautéed onions and bell peppers, as their sweetness will meld into the other veggies. Sauté until they are translucent, then add in zucchini and mushrooms for a delightful variety of textures. Be sure to skip the overcooking; you want them to stay vibrant and slightly firm. This will enhance the overall flavor and presentation of the casserole once baked.

Use a spatula to evenly distribute the cheese mixture over the vegetable layers. This ensures that every bite has a creamy, cheesy goodness without overpowering the fresh vegetable flavors. The eggs in the mixture not only help bind the ingredients together, creating a satisfying texture, but they also add richness to each serving. Remember to leave some of the mozzarella and cheddar for the top for that golden, bubbly finish.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

Preparing this casserole ahead of time is a great way to save on Sunday prep. You can assemble the casserole up to a day in advance, cover it tightly with foil, and store it in the fridge. Just be sure to include a few extra minutes of baking time if baking straight from the refrigerator; this will ensure that it heats through evenly without drying out. If you prefer, you could also freeze the assembled casserole for up to three months; just allow it to thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking.

To reheat leftovers, consider warming the casserole in the oven at 350°F (175°C) covered with foil for about 20–25 minutes to prevent drying out. You can also microwave individual portions, but be careful not to overheat them to maintain that cheesy texture. Storing this dish provides an excellent quick meal for busy nights, and its delightful flavors develop even further after a day in the fridge.

Flavor Variations and Substitutions

Feel free to switch up the vegetables based on what you have on hand or what's in season. Broccoli, carrots, or even roasted butternut squash can be excellent additions, providing their unique flavors and nutrients. For a touch of spice, consider adding diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes into the cheese mixture. Each variation can create a new twist on this comforting classic, making it versatile for any family gathering.

If you need a dairy-free option, substitute ricotta with cashew cream or blended silken tofu, which both provide a creamy consistency. Nutritional yeast can serve as a cheese substitute, adding a nutty flavor without the dairy content. Adjusting the cheeses and experimenting with herbs will also create different profiles, so don't hesitate to explore new flavor combinations and make this dish your own.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to make your delicious casserole.

Vegetables

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

Casserole Mixture

1 cup ricotta cheese
1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
1/2 cup cheddar cheese, shredded
2 eggs
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper to taste

Once you have everything, you're ready to start assembling your casserole!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to prepare your casserole.

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9x13 inch baking dish.

Sauté the Vegetables

In a skillet, sauté the chopped onion and bell peppers until softened. Add the sliced mushrooms and zucchini, cooking for another 5 minutes until just tender.

Mix Cheeses and Eggs

In a bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, eggs, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix until smooth.

Assemble the Casserole

Layer the sautéed vegetables at the bottom of the baking dish, then spread the cheese and egg mixture evenly over the vegetables. Top with shredded mozzarella and cheddar cheese.

Bake

Cover with foil and bake for 30 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until golden and bubbly.

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

Pro Tips

Feel free to substitute any vegetables you have on hand. Broccoli, carrots, or even sweet potatoes work wonderfully in this recipe. For a little spice, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the cheese mixture!

Serving Suggestions

This baked vegetable casserole is perfect on its own, but it pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad or a side of garlic bread for a more filling meal. For added protein, consider serving it alongside grilled chicken or roasted chickpeas. A spoonful of pesto or a sprinkle of fresh herbs like basil or parsley right before serving can elevate the dish's freshness, balancing out the richness of the cheeses.

For a more festive touch, top the casserole with a drizzle of balsamic reduction or a garnish of toasted pine nuts for added crunch. These elements not only enhance the flavors but also add visual appeal to your serving. The presentation can be just as important as the taste, especially when you're enjoying a meal with family and friends.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If you find that your casserole turns out too watery, it may be due to excess moisture from the vegetables. To remedy this, you can pre-sauté the vegetables longer to evaporate some liquid, or simply pat them dry with a paper towel before layering in the dish. Conversely, if you prefer a more decadent dish, you can add a layer of breadcrumbs mixed with parmesan on top for a crunchy texture.

To ensure your casserole is cooked evenly, it’s helpful to check the internal temperature with a kitchen thermometer; it should reach 165°F (74°C) before serving. Always let it rest for a few minutes after removing from the oven, as this will allow the layers to set, making serving easier. If you find it browning too quickly, covering with foil halfway through baking can prevent burning while still allowing it to cook through.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Yes! You can assemble it 1 day prior, cover it, and store it in the fridge until ready to bake.

→ What can I serve with the casserole?

It goes great with a side salad or some crusty bread for a complete meal.

→ Is this recipe vegetarian?

Absolutely! This casserole is loaded with veggies and cheeses, making it a delicious vegetarian dish.

→ Can I freeze the casserole?

Yes! You can freeze it before or after baking. Just make sure to wrap it well in plastic wrap and foil.