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; 2 cups yellow squash, sliced; 1 cup bell peppers, diced; 1 cup onion, chopped; 2 cups spinach; 1 cup ricotta cheese; 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; 1 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

I love making our Sunday Baked Vegetable Casserole as it brings the whole family together. This dish is not only comforting but also a delicious way to enjoy a variety of veggies in one meal. With vibrant colors and bold flavors, it brightens up our weekend table. I often customize it with whatever vegetables I have on hand, which makes it a versatile recipe. The best part? It’s easy to prepare and always gets rave reviews from both kids and adults alike!

Created by

Riley Dawson

Last updated on 2026-01-13T20:22:19.639Z

When I first tried making a vegetable casserole, I was amazed by how easy it was to turn simple ingredients into something magical. The key is to choose fresh vegetables and layer them properly, allowing each flavor to shine. I like to use a mix of squash, zucchini, and bell peppers, and the addition of cheese creates a creamy richness that makes this dish so satisfying.

I remember the first time I served it to my family; their faces lit up with delight as they enjoyed the warm, cheesy goodness. A sprinkle of fresh herbs right before serving elevates the dish even more, tying all the flavors together perfectly.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        A medley of colorful vegetables for a vibrant presentation.
Creamy, cheesy goodness that satisfies all cravings.
Perfect as a side dish or a hearty vegetarian main course.

      

Vegetable Selection and Preparation

Choosing the right vegetables is key to creating a colorful and flavorful casserole. Zucchini and yellow squash bring moisture and a subtle sweetness, while bell peppers add crunch and a hint of bitterness. If you're short on any specific vegetable, feel free to substitute with others like asparagus or broccoli. Just ensure that your choices are roughly the same size for uniform cooking. A simple tip is to slice them thinly, ideally about 1/4 inch, so they cook through properly during baking.

Once your vegetables are selected, preparing them correctly will enhance their flavors. As you sauté the onion and garlic at medium heat, cook until they are translucent for about 3-4 minutes, allowing them to release their natural oils. This step not only builds a flavor base but also helps to offset any bitterness from the spinach or other greens you may choose. Remember to give them enough space in the skillet while cooking so they can brown slightly; overcrowding can cause steaming instead of sautéing.

Cheese Mixture Tips

The cheese mixture in this casserole adds creaminess and depth of flavor. Ricotta cheese serves as the base, providing a rich and creamy texture that binds the vegetables together. For an even creamier outcome, you can substitute part of the ricotta with cream cheese or sour cream; just keep the quantities equivalent. It's also a great opportunity to add herbs like fresh basil or parsley, enhancing the overall freshness of the dish.

When mixing the cheeses, I recommend using a whisk to ensure everything incorporates smoothly. This prevents any clumps and creates a more uniform experience throughout the casserole. After mixing, if the consistency seems too thick, you can easily add a splash of milk until it reaches your desired creaminess. Also, be mindful of the salt levels, particularly if using pre-seasoned cheese or packed ingredients, as it can quickly become overly salty.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to create a delightful Sunday Baked Vegetable Casserole:

Ingredients

2 cups zucchini, sliced
2 cups yellow squash, sliced
1 cup bell peppers, diced
1 cup onion, chopped
2 cups spinach
1 cup ricotta cheese
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper

Ensure all your ingredients are prepped and ready for a seamless cooking experience!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create a delicious casserole that will impress everyone!

Prepare the Vegetables

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a large skillet, sauté the onion and garlic until fragrant. Add the zucchini, squash, and bell peppers and cook until just tender, about 5-7 minutes.

Stir in the spinach and cook until wilted.

Mix the Cheeses

In a bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, half of the mozzarella, Parmesan cheese, oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix until well blended.

Layer and Bake

In a greased baking dish, layer half of the sautéed vegetables, followed by the cheese mixture. Top with the remaining vegetables and finally the rest of the mozzarella cheese. Bake for 30 minutes or until golden and bubbly.

Let it cool for a few minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld beautifully!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, try adding crushed red pepper flakes or fresh herbs such as basil or thyme.

Make-Ahead and Storage

This casserole is perfect for meal prep! You can assemble it a day ahead and store it in the refrigerator before baking. Just remember to cover it tightly to prevent any drying. When you’re ready to bake, you might need to extend the baking time by 5-10 minutes if it goes into the oven cold. If you would like to freeze it, I recommend assembling it without baking, then wrapping it well in plastic wrap and aluminum foil for up to three months. Thaw it in the fridge overnight before cooking to ensure even baking.

To reheat leftover casserole, simply place it in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20-25 minutes, or until heated through. Cover the dish with foil to prevent the top from becoming too brown. For a fresh feel, consider sprinkling a little extra cheese on top before reheating; it’ll melt deliciously and enhance the visual appeal.

Serving Suggestions

This baked vegetable casserole works wonderfully as a side dish alongside a protein like grilled chicken or fish, but it can also shine as a vegetarian main course. For a heartier meal, serve it with a side of quinoa or a light salad to complement the rich flavors and textures. I also love pairing it with a zesty marinara sauce drizzled on top right before serving for an extra kick.

For a creative twist, consider adding cooked pasta into the layers for a delightful baked pasta-style dish or including beans for additional protein and texture. Experiment with different spices in the layers; a dash of smoked paprika or a pinch of crushed red pepper can elevate the flavors. Enjoy customizing this dish according to your family's preferences!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen vegetables?

Yes, just make sure to thaw and drain them first to avoid excess moisture.

→ How can I make this casserole gluten-free?

This recipe is naturally gluten-free, but always check your cheese labels to be sure.

→ Can I make it ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can assemble the casserole a day in advance and refrigerate it before baking.

→ What else can I add to the casserole?

Feel free to incorporate any of your favorite vegetables or even cooked grains like quinoa for added texture.