5 Irresistible Cheesy Vegetable Gratin Recipes You’ll Love

If you’re looking for a flavorful and comforting vegetable casserole, then a cheddar vegetable gratin is the perfect choice. This cheesy dish combines the rich flavors of cheddar cheese and cream with a variety of mixed vegetables to create a delicious, indulgent casserole that is perfect for family dinners, holiday feasts, or even a simple weeknight meal. Whether you’re preparing a Swiss cheese vegetable casserole, a vegetable au gratin casserole, or a cheesy mixed vegetable casserole, these dishes offer a great way to enjoy nutritious veggies in a creamy, cheesy form.

In this article, we’ll show you how to make a flavorful vegetable au gratin, provide tips for customizing the recipe, and offer ideas for serving it alongside other dishes. Let’s get started with the best veggie casserole recipes that will leave everyone asking for more!

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Why You’ll Love Vegetable Gratin

Vegetable gratins are a great way to enjoy the rich flavors of cheese and cream, while still incorporating a healthy amount of vegetables. Here’s why you should add this dish to your repertoire:

1. Perfect for Any Occasion

A vegetable au gratin casserole is a perfect side dish for almost any meal. Whether you’re preparing it for a banquet meal, serving it alongside turkey breast, or looking for a comforting dish for Thanksgiving side dish recipes, this casserole fits perfectly with almost any entrée.

2. Comforting and Cheesy

The creamy cheese sauce and crispy top layer make the vegetable gratin comforting and indulgent. Whether you use cheddar cheese, Swiss cheese, or a combination of both, the cheese brings richness to the dish that is irresistible.

3. Packed with Nutrients

While a gratin might seem indulgent, it’s packed with nutrient-rich vegetables like broccoli, cauliflower, and carrots. These vegetables provide fiber, vitamins, and minerals, making the casserole both a healthy and comforting choice for any meal.

4. Customizable

One of the best things about a cheesy mixed vegetable casserole is that you can customize it based on what you have in the fridge. Whether you want to add more veggies or experiment with different types of cheese, this dish is incredibly versatile.

If you’re looking for more mix vegetable recipes, try our Cheesy Broccoli Cauliflower Casserole for another delicious way to enjoy your veggies.

Ingredients You’ll Need for Vegetable Au Gratin

Making a cheddar vegetable gratin is simple and requires just a few basic ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:

For the Casserole:

• 3 cups mixed vegetables (such as broccoli, cauliflower, carrots, or green beans)
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or a combination of cheddar and Swiss cheese)
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for added flavor)
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup milk
• 2 tbsp butter
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1/4 cup breadcrumbs (for topping)
• 1/4 cup chopped parsley (optional, for garnish)

For the Sauce:

• 2 tbsp flour (for thickening the sauce)
• 1/2 tsp mustard powder (optional, for a tangy kick)
• 1/4 tsp paprika (for color and flavor)

For more cheesy vegetable casserole recipes, check out our Cheesy Cauliflower Casserole for a similar dish.

How to Make Cheddar Vegetable Gratin

Making a vegetable au gratin casserole is easy and takes just a few simple steps. Follow this recipe to create a flavorful, cheesy side dish your whole family will love:

Step 1: Prepare the Vegetables

Start by steaming or blanching your mixed vegetables (broccoli, cauliflower, carrots, etc.) until they are tender but still firm. You want the vegetables to retain their shape when baked. Drain the vegetables well and set them aside.

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Step 2: Make the Cheese Sauce

In a medium saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Add the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly to form a roux.

Gradually add the milk and heavy cream, whisking continuously to prevent lumps. Once the sauce thickens (about 3-4 minutes), add the cheddar cheese (and Swiss cheese, if using) and stir until melted and smooth. Season the sauce with salt, pepper, and mustard powder.

Step 3: Assemble the Casserole

In a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, layer the cooked vegetables evenly. Pour the cheese sauce over the vegetables and stir to combine, ensuring the veggies are evenly coated with the sauce.

Step 4: Add the Topping

In a small bowl, combine the breadcrumbs with a little bit of Parmesan cheese and a pinch of paprika. Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture evenly over the top of the casserole.

Step 5: Bake the Casserole

Bake in the preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the casserole is bubbly. For an extra crispy topping, you can place the casserole under the broiler for the last 1-2 minutes of baking.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Remove from the oven and let it sit for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a touch of color and freshness. Serve hot as a side dish with your favorite protein.

Customizing Your Cheesy Mixed Vegetable Casserole

While this vegetable au gratin is already packed with flavor, here are a few ideas for customizing it to your tastes:

1. Add Protein

To turn this vegetable casserole into a more filling main dish, consider adding protein such as grilled chicken, shredded turkey, or even ham. The savory flavors will complement the creamy cheese sauce perfectly.

2. Make it Spicy

If you enjoy a little heat, try adding jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the cheese sauce for a spicy kick.

3. Add More Vegetables

Feel free to add more vegetables to the mix. Try adding spinach, zucchini, or peas for additional texture and flavor. This casserole is very versatile when it comes to veggie combinations.

4. Go Vegan

For a vegan-friendly version of this dish, swap out the cheddar cheese and heavy cream for plant-based alternatives like vegan cheese and coconut milk. You can also use vegan butter and non-dairy milk for a completely dairy-free casserole.

How to Serve Vegetable Au Gratin

This cheddar vegetable gratin is the perfect side dish for a variety of main courses. Here are a few serving ideas:

• With Roasted Meats: Pair this cheesy vegetable casserole with turkey breast, roast chicken, or prime rib for a hearty, balanced meal.
• As Part of a Banquet Meal: This casserole is perfect for banquet meals, making it a great addition to holiday gatherings or special occasions.
• With Soup: Serve this casserole alongside a warm soup recipe with cauliflower or broccoli cheddar soup for a comforting, hearty meal.

For more ideas, check out our Vegetable Augratin Casserole for another cheesy vegetable option.

Storing and Reheating Cheddar Vegetable Gratin

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes until heated through. This casserole also freezes well—just be sure to let it cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 3 months, and reheat when ready to serve.

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FAQ: Everything You Need to Know About Vegetable Au Gratin

1. Can I use frozen vegetables for this casserole?

Yes, you can use frozen vegetables. Just be sure to thaw and drain them well before adding them to the casserole to prevent excess moisture.

2. Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare this casserole up to 24 hours in advance. Just assemble it, cover it, and refrigerate it until you’re ready to bake. Add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it’s cold from the fridge.

3. Can I use a different type of cheese?

Absolutely! You can substitute cheddar cheese with other cheeses like Mozzarella, Gruyère, or Monterey Jack for different flavors. A combination of cheeses will also work well for a richer taste.

4. Can I add bacon to the casserole?

Yes! Adding cooked bacon on top or mixing it into the casserole will add a nice savory flavor. It’s a great way to elevate the dish and make it even more indulgent.

5. How do I make the casserole gluten-free?

To make the casserole gluten-free, use gluten-free breadcrumbs and make sure the cream of mushroom soup (if using) is gluten-free, or make your own sauce from scratch.

Conclusion: The Ultimate Cheesy Vegetable Casserole

This cheddar vegetable gratin is the ultimate comfort food that combines creamy cheese with nutritious vegetables. Whether you’re serving it as a side dish with turkey breast, roast chicken, or prime rib, or you’re looking for a comforting addition to a Thanksgiving side dish, this casserole is sure to impress. With its versatility and easy preparation, it’s the perfect dish for any occasion.

So, gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to indulge in this cheesy, vegetable-packed casserole!

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