Sunday Baked Vegetable Casserole

Name: Sunday Baked Vegetable Casserole
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h 5 min
Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups zucchini, sliced; 1 cup bell peppers, chopped; 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; 1 medium onion, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup spinach, chopped; 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese; 1 cup ricotta cheese; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; 1 teaspoon dried basil; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

I absolutely love making this Sunday Baked Vegetable Casserole for family gatherings and cozy weekends. It's packed with vibrant vegetables and cheesy goodness that keeps everyone coming back for more! The best part is that it’s incredibly easy to assemble, even on busy mornings. We often play around with different vegetables based on what’s in season, which adds a personal touch and keeps things exciting. This comforting casserole is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, filling the house with delicious aromas and smiles all around!

Created by

Quinn Harper

Last updated on 2026-01-13T22:16:11.627Z

When I first tried making this casserole, I was skeptical if it could be both nutritious and delicious. But with the right blend of seasonal vegetables, aromatic herbs, and a cheesy topping, I discovered it was a perfect way to showcase the flavors of the season. I love using a mix of zucchini, bell peppers, and tomatoes for a colorful presentation that tempts the appetite!

What really makes this dish stand out is the layering technique. By adding ingredients in stages, flavors meld beautifully during baking. I kept finding new twists by experimenting with different spices and cheese, which made each casserole unique. Try adding some crushed red pepper for an extra kick!

        Why You'll Love This Casserole
        A colorful array of vegetables packed with nutrients
Cheesy, comforting layers that melt in your mouth
Perfect for meal prep or feeding a crowd on Sundays

      

Choosing the Right Vegetables

The beauty of the Sunday Baked Vegetable Casserole lies in its versatility. When selecting vegetables, aim for a mix that combines both texture and flavor. For instance, zucchini adds a delightful crunch while bell peppers contribute sweetness. Consider using seasonal produce to enhance freshness—substituting asparagus in spring or butternut squash in autumn can introduce exciting new flavors. Just be mindful of cooking times; denser vegetables like carrots or potatoes may need pre-steaming to ensure they soften adequately during baking.

If you have any leftover vegetables lurking in your fridge, this casserole is a perfect way to repurpose them. Just remember to chop them into similar sizes to ensure even cooking. Vegetables like mushrooms, broccoli, or even kale can be excellent additions. When mixing different veggies, keep an eye on moisture levels; watery vegetables can lead to a soggier casserole. If this is a concern, you may want to sauté them a bit longer to concentrate their flavors and reduce excess moisture.

Cheese Choices and Techniques

Cheese plays a crucial role in the flavor and texture of this casserole. I recommend using high-quality, whole-fat cheeses for the best melting properties. While mozzarella gives that classic stretchiness, ricotta adds creaminess and richness, creating delightful pockets of flavor throughout the dish. If you're looking for a lower-fat option, you can substitute part of the mozzarella with a low-fat cheese blend, but keep in mind that this can affect the final texture.

To achieve the perfect cheese topping, ensure you cover the casserole with a generous amount of mozzarella but save the Parmesan for the final minutes of baking. This will give you that beautiful golden crust that contrasts nicely with the creamy interior. If you want to elevate the flavor, try mixing in some blue cheese or feta for an unexpected twist—these cheeses will add a sharpness that balances beautifully with the mild flavors of the other ingredients.

Ingredients

Gather these fresh ingredients to create a delightful casserole!

Vegetables and Cheese

2 cups zucchini, sliced
1 cup bell peppers, chopped
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1 medium onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup spinach, chopped
2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
1 cup ricotta cheese
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon dried basil
Salt and pepper to taste

Combine your ingredients for layers of flavor and color!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create this scrumptious casserole!

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

Sauté the Vegetables

In a skillet, heat a bit of olive oil over medium heat, and sauté the onion and garlic until translucent. Add zucchini, bell peppers, and spinach, cooking until just tender. Season with oregano, basil, salt, and pepper.

Layer the Ingredients

In a large baking dish, spread half of the sautéed vegetables evenly. Add dollops of ricotta cheese across the veggies, followed by half of the mozzarella. Repeat the process with the remaining vegetables and cheeses.

Add Tomatoes and Bake

Top with cherry tomatoes and sprinkle grated Parmesan over everything. Cover with foil and bake for 30 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes, until cheese is bubbly and golden.

Serve and Enjoy

Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy this hearty meal with family and friends!

Enjoy each layer of flavor in this delightful dish!

Pro Tips

For a variation, you can add cooked pasta to the layers for a heartier meal. Additionally, feel free to substitute your favorite vegetables based on the season or what you have on hand.

Make-Ahead and Storage

This casserole is a great candidate for meal prep. You can assemble it a day in advance and store it covered in the refrigerator until you're ready to bake. Just extend the baking time slightly if it's coming straight from the fridge, as the ingredients will need extra time to heat through. If you plan to freeze it, consider preparing individual portions in freezer-safe containers; this way, you can reheat on-demand without losing quality. Just remember to thaw fully in the fridge overnight before baking.

When storing leftovers, be sure to seal the casserole tightly to maintain freshness. It will keep well in the refrigerator for up to four days. Reheat portions in the oven for the best texture or microwave for a quicker option, but remember that microwaving may make the cheese a bit rubbery. A sprinkle of fresh herbs before serving can revitalize the flavor if you've stored it for a day or two.

Serving Suggestions

This casserole is a complete meal on its own, but it pairs beautifully with a fresh salad or crusty bread to soak up any cheesy goodness. A light vinaigrette over arugula or mixed greens can add a refreshing contrast to the richness of the baked dish. Additionally, for a brunch-inspired presentation, you could serve it alongside quiche or frittata, making it an excellent centerpiece for a weekend gathering.

Consider adding a sprinkle of fresh herbs like basil or parsley just before serving for an aromatic finish. A drizzle of a balsamic reduction can also add a lovely tang that complements the richness of the cheese. If you'd like to make it heartier, incorporate a protein such as grilled chicken or chickpeas into the layers for added substance without sacrificing flavor.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen vegetables?

Yes, frozen vegetables can work, but be sure to thaw and drain them properly to avoid excess moisture in the casserole.

→ How can I make this dish vegan?

You can substitute the cheeses with plant-based alternatives and use a vegan ricotta made from nuts or tofu.

→ Can I prepare this casserole in advance?

Absolutely! You can assemble the casserole a day in advance and keep it covered in the fridge until you're ready to bake it.

→ What should I serve with the casserole?

This casserole pairs beautifully with a fresh side salad or crusty bread for a complete meal.