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, chopped; 1 cup bell peppers, diced; 1 cup spinach; 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; 1 medium onion, chopped; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese; 1 cup ricotta cheese; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; Salt and pepper to taste; Olive oil for drizzling; Fresh basil for garnish

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

I love making this Sunday Baked Vegetable Casserole whenever I want a hearty and comforting meal that showcases seasonal veggies. It’s a colorful blend of flavors from the roasted vegetables and creamy cheese that makes it irresistible. Plus, it's a fantastic way to use up any leftover vegetables I have in the fridge. Whether I’m serving it for family or friends, this dish always brings a sense of warmth and satisfaction to the table. It’s so simple yet so impressive—I can’t get enough of it!

Created by

Brielle Thompson

Last updated on 2026-01-13T23:28:12.149Z

When I first attempted to make this casserole, I was amazed at how easily the ingredients came together. It started with a medley of seasonal vegetables—zucchini, bell peppers, and spinach are my favorites—tossed in olive oil and seasoned to perfection. Baking them not only enhances their natural sweetness but also creates a wonderful depth of flavor.

This dish is incredibly versatile. I can swap out any veggies based on what I have on hand, and it still turns out delicious. I once added sweet potatoes, and the added sweetness balanced beautifully with the savory cheese. I recommend drizzling a bit of balsamic glaze just before serving for an extra flavor punch!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Packed with nutritious vegetables that make every bite guilt-free
Versatile enough to customize with your favorite seasonal produce
Hearty and comforting, perfect for family gatherings or cozy dinners

      

Choosing the Right Vegetables

One of the best aspects of the Sunday Baked Vegetable Casserole is its versatility, allowing you to incorporate your favorite vegetables or whatever is in season. Zucchini and bell peppers provide moisture and sweetness, while spinach adds a nutrient boost. When selecting vegetables, aim for a mix of textures and flavors; denser vegetables like carrots or eggplant can complement softer ones like tomatoes. If using starchy vegetables, consider par-cooking them to ensure they blend harmoniously with the other ingredients.

For a more vibrant dish, experiment with color! Purple cabbage or beets not only enhance the aesthetic appeal but also offer a variety of nutrients. Just keep in mind that some vegetables may release more moisture during cooking. In those cases, you might want to slice them thinner or sauté lightly before layering to avoid a watery casserole.

Layering Techniques

Proper layering is crucial for achieving an even bake and ensuring that every bite is filled with flavor. When layering the casserole, use a spatula to spread the ricotta cheese evenly, which helps to bind the vegetables together and creates a creamy texture that contrasts beautifully with the mozzarella. A light sprinkle of herbs between layers can amplify the dish's aromatic profile.

For an extra touch of flavor, consider adding a layer of freshly grated Parmesan cheese on top before the final baking phase. This adds a delightful sharpness and a golden crust that elevates the casserole. Remember to keep some cheese aside for the end—the bubbly, slightly browned top is always the star of the show!

Serving and Storing

This casserole not only tastes amazing fresh out of the oven but also holds its flavor well for reheating. Let it cool completely before storing leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge, where it can last for up to four days. I recommend reheating individual portions in the microwave or covering the entire dish with foil and warming it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through to preserve its texture.

If you want to make this dish ahead of time, you can assemble the casserole and refrigerate it for up to a day before baking. Just add an extra 10-15 minutes to the baking time if it’s been chilled overnight. For longer storage, consider freezing the assembled but unbaked casserole. Cover it tightly and it can be frozen for up to three months—perfect for a quick meal later!

Ingredients

Casserole Ingredients

2 cups zucchini, chopped
1 cup bell peppers, diced
1 cup spinach
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1 medium onion, chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1 cup ricotta cheese
1 teaspoon dried oregano
Salt and pepper to taste
Olive oil for drizzling
Fresh basil for garnish

Instructions

Prepare the Vegetables

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a large bowl, mix the chopped zucchini, bell peppers, spinach, cherry tomatoes, onion, and garlic. Drizzle with olive oil and season with oregano, salt, and pepper, tossing until well combined.

Layer the Casserole

In a greased baking dish, layer half of the vegetable mixture. Spread half of the ricotta over the top, followed by half of the mozzarella. Repeat the layers with the remaining ingredients.

Bake the Casserole

Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes, allowing the cheese to bubble and brown lightly.

Garnish and Serve

Once baked, remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh basil before serving. Enjoy your delicious casserole!

Pro Tips

For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding nutritional yeast or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a hint of spice.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you're looking for a dairy-free option, substitute the ricotta and mozzarella with vegan cheese alternatives. Additionally, silken tofu blended with nutritional yeast can mimic the creaminess of ricotta while boosting protein content. For a gluten-free version, ensure that any pre-packaged ingredients, such as sauces or breadcrumbs, are certified gluten-free to accommodate dietary needs.

Feel free to get creative with herbs and spices; adding a dash of smoked paprika or cumin can bring a delicious depth of flavor. Swap the oregano with fresh thyme or rosemary for a different aromatic twist. These simple changes can enhance the dish while still keeping it true to its comforting essence.

Flavor Enhancements

One way to elevate the flavor profile of your casserole is to incorporate caramelized onions or sautéed mushrooms. These ingredients add a distinct umami richness that complements the freshness of the vegetables. Sauté the onions until they are a deep golden color before mixing them in; this step can take about 15-20 minutes but makes a significant difference in taste.

For an added burst of freshness, consider topping your baked casserole with a sprinkle of extra basil or even a drizzle of balsamic glaze just before serving. This will enhance the overall experience and offer a beautiful contrast to the cheesy richness.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the casserole a day in advance, cover it, and store it in the refrigerator. Just increase the baking time by about 10 minutes if baking from cold.

→ What other vegetables can I include?

Feel free to include vegetables like carrots, broccoli, or cauliflower. Just remember to chop them into similar-sized pieces for even cooking.

→ Can I freeze this casserole?

Absolutely! Make sure to let it cool completely, then cover it tightly with plastic wrap before freezing. It should be good for 1-2 months.

→ What can I serve it with?

This baked vegetable casserole pairs wonderfully with a fresh garden salad or some crusty bread. It also makes a great side dish for grilled meats.