Cheesy Vegetable Casserole Delight
This Cheesy Vegetable Casserole Delight is a nostalgic recipe that my grandmother brought to every holiday gathering. Its rich blend of flavors and creamy texture provides an excellent contrast to traditional holiday sides like sweet potato casserole and dressing. Made with an assortment of frozen mixed vegetables and topped with a buttery, crunchy Ritz cracker crust, this dish is not only easy to prepare but is also a crowd-pleaser. It's a fantastic method to encourage kids and even the pickiest eaters to enjoy their vegetables. Serve it as a comforting side dish at family gatherings or enjoy it as a cozy weeknight dinner — its deliciousness knows no season!
8
Servings
N/A
Calories
7
Ingredients
Ingredients
Frozen mixed vegetables
20 ounces (thawed and drained)
Chopped onion
1 cup (fresh)
Chopped celery
1 cup (fresh)
Shredded cheddar cheese
1 cup (fresh)
Mayonnaise
1 cup (none)
Ritz cracker crumbs
1.5 cups (crushed)
Butter or margarine
1/2 cup (melted)
Instructions
1
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2
In a large saucepan, cook the frozen mixed vegetables according to the package directions. Once cooked, drain them thoroughly to remove excess moisture.
3
In a large mixing bowl, combine the drained vegetables, chopped onion, chopped celery, shredded cheddar cheese, and mayonnaise. Stir well until all ingredients are evenly coated.
4
Grease an 11 x 7 x 1 1/2 inch baking dish. Spoon the vegetable mixture into the prepared dish, spreading it out evenly.
5
In a separate bowl, mix together the Ritz cracker crumbs with the melted butter or margarine until well combined.
6
Sprinkle the cracker crumb mixture evenly over the vegetable mixture in the baking dish.
7
Bake in the preheated oven for 30 to 35 minutes, or until the casserole is thoroughly heated and the topping is golden brown.
8
Remove from the oven and allow to cool slightly before serving. Enjoy your Cheesy Vegetable Casserole Delight!
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Cheesy Vegetable Casserole Delight?
It is a nostalgic family recipe featuring a blend of vegetables, cheese, and a Ritz cracker crust, often served as a holiday side dish.
What are the main ingredients in this casserole?
The main ingredients include frozen mixed vegetables, chopped onion, celery, shredded cheddar cheese, mayonnaise, Ritz cracker crumbs, and butter.
How long does it take to bake?
The casserole should be baked for 30 to 35 minutes until thoroughly heated.
What is the required oven temperature?
Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit (175 degrees Celsius).
Can I use fresh vegetables instead of frozen?
Yes, you can use fresh vegetables, but you should cook them until tender and drain them well before mixing.
How many servings does this recipe yield?
This recipe makes approximately 8 servings.
What type of cheese is recommended?
The recipe calls for shredded cheddar cheese for a rich and classic flavor.
Can I substitute the mayonnaise in the recipe?
While mayonnaise provides the creamy base, you could try sour cream or Greek yogurt as a substitute, though the flavor profile will change.
What can I use as a substitute for Ritz crackers?
You can use panko breadcrumbs, crushed saltine crackers, or crushed cornflakes as an alternative for the crunchy topping.
Is this recipe suitable for children?
Yes, its creamy texture and cheesy topping make it a popular kid-friendly way to serve vegetables.
Can I prepare this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can mix the vegetable base ahead of time; however, add the cracker topping just before baking to keep it crunchy.
How should I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 to 4 days.
Can I freeze this vegetable casserole?
You can freeze it, but be aware that the texture of the vegetables and the crunch of the topping may change upon thawing and reheating.
What size baking dish is needed?
This recipe requires an 11 x 7 x 1 1/2 inch baking dish.
How do I keep the cracker topping from burning?
If the topping is browning too quickly, cover the dish loosely with aluminum foil for the remaining bake time.
Can I add protein like chicken to this dish?
Yes, adding cooked shredded chicken or ham is a great way to turn this side dish into a main course.
Is this a good recipe for holiday gatherings?
Absolutely, it is designed to be a festive side dish that pairs well with traditional holiday meats like turkey or ham.
Should I use salted or unsalted butter?
Either works well, but unsalted butter allows you to better control the overall saltiness of the dish.
Do I need to saute the onion and celery before mixing?
No, the onion and celery are added fresh and will cook sufficiently during the 30-35 minute baking time.
Can I use a different vegetable mix like California blend?
Yes, any 20-ounce frozen vegetable mix will work well with this recipe.
Is this casserole gluten-free?
As written, it contains Ritz crackers which have gluten. To make it gluten-free, use a gluten-free cracker substitute.
How do I get the topping extra crunchy?
Ensure the crackers are well-coated in melted butter and bake until they reach a deep golden brown color.
Can I use low-fat cheese or mayonnaise?
Yes, low-fat versions can be used, though the final result may be slightly less creamy.
How do I know when the casserole is finished cooking?
The casserole is done when it is bubbling around the edges and the cracker topping is golden brown.
What are some suggested pairings for this dish?
It pairs beautifully with roast beef, holiday dressing, or grilled chicken.
Can I use margarine instead of butter?
Yes, the recipe specifies that either butter or margarine can be used for the cracker topping.
Why do I need to drain the vegetables?
Draining the vegetables thoroughly prevents the casserole from becoming watery or soggy.
Is this dish considered vegetarian?
Yes, it is a vegetarian dish as long as no animal-based fats or proteins are added.
Can I double the recipe for a larger crowd?
Yes, you can double the ingredients and bake it in a larger 9x13 inch baking pan.
What is the best way to reheat leftovers?
Reheat in the oven at 350 degrees for 10-15 minutes to help restore the crunch of the topping, or use a microwave for speed.