Sunday Baked Vegetable Casserole

Name: Sunday Baked Vegetable Casserole
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups zucchini, sliced; 1 cup bell peppers, diced; 1 cup spinach, chopped; 1 cup mushrooms, sliced; 1 medium onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup ricotta cheese; 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; 1 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; 1 cup breadcrumbs

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

I love making this Sunday Baked Vegetable Casserole as a comforting dish for family gatherings. Each ingredient adds its own flavor, and the final product is a warm, hearty meal that everyone enjoys. I particularly appreciate how easily this casserole comes together; just chop, layer, and bake! The blend of various vegetables not only makes it incredibly nutritious but also adds vibrant colors that brighten up the table. It’s a wonderful way to use up leftover veggies while ensuring a tasty side or main dish for any occasion.

Created by

Maisie Clarke

Last updated on 2026-01-12T00:01:14.388Z

When I first experimented with this casserole, I was astounded by how simple yet satisfying it is to make. I layered a variety of seasonal vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, and spinach, then topped it with a cheesy crust that just melts in your mouth. The key to a successful casserole is ensuring that the vegetables are cut uniformly, which allows them to cook evenly and creates perfect layers.

One proactive tip I learned is to precook denser vegetables like carrots and potatoes a bit before baking, ensuring they soften beautifully by the end. Trust me, this casserole is not just a meal; it's about creating cherished moments with loved ones during our Sunday dinners.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        A medley of vibrant, seasonal vegetables in every bite
Creamy cheese topping that ties everything together
A perfect make-ahead dish for meal prep or gatherings

      

Vegetable Selection and Preparation

Choosing the right vegetables can enhance the flavor and texture of your casserole. Opt for seasonal vegetables for the best taste and nutritional value. Zucchini and bell peppers bring sweetness, while mushrooms add an earthy depth. If you have other veggies on hand, feel free to substitute—just aim for a mix of colors and textures to keep it vibrant.

Properly prepping your vegetables is essential for even cooking. Slice the zucchini thinly, about 1/4 inch thick, to ensure it cooks thoroughly. When sautéing, keep the heat at medium to avoid burning the garlic and onions. You want them to be just translucent—not browned—to preserve their flavor and maintain the casserole's overall brightness.

Cheese and Layering Tips

The combination of ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan creates a creamy topping that complements the vegetables beautifully. Ricotta adds a lightness while mozzarella provides stretchiness. Use whole milk ricotta for a richer flavor. If you're looking for a lower-fat option, light ricotta works well too; just keep in mind it might not be as creamy.

Layering is where the magic happens. For an even bake, distribute the vegetables and cheese mixture evenly in the baking dish. When adding breadcrumbs, ensure they cover the cheese mixture entirely—this will help to create that perfect golden crust. If you prefer a crunchier top, consider mixing in some grated cheese with the breadcrumbs for added flavor and texture.

Ingredients

Vegetables

2 cups zucchini, sliced
1 cup bell peppers, diced
1 cup spinach, chopped
1 cup mushrooms, sliced
1 medium onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced

Casserole Layers

1 cup ricotta cheese
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1 cup breadcrumbs

Steps

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

Sauté the Vegetables

In a large skillet, heat some olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, sautéing until translucent. Then, add the sliced zucchini, diced bell peppers, and mushrooms.

Cook until the vegetables are tender.

Mix in Spinach

Stir in the chopped spinach, and cook for an additional 3-4 minutes until wilted. Remove from heat.

Prepare Cheese Mixture

In a separate bowl, combine ricotta cheese, oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix well.

Layer the Casserole

In a baking dish, layer half of the sautéed vegetables, followed by half of the ricotta mixture, and then sprinkle with breadcrumbs. Repeat with the remaining vegetables and cheese mixture.

Add Toppings

Top the casserole with shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese.

Bake

Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes, until the cheese is golden and bubbly.

Pro Tips

Feel free to customize the vegetables based on what you have on hand or prefer. This casserole can be easily made ahead of time and reheats wonderfully, making it perfect for meal prep.

Make-Ahead and Storage

This casserole is an excellent make-ahead option for busy weeks. You can prepare it up to a day in advance—simply assemble the layers, cover tightly with foil, and refrigerate. When you're ready to bake, just add an extra 10 minutes to the initial baking time if it's coming straight from the fridge.

Storing leftovers is also a breeze. Allow the casserole to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. For longer storage, consider freezing it. Just be sure to wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat in the oven.

Serving Suggestions

For a balanced meal, pair your baked vegetable casserole with a fresh garden salad or a side of whole grain bread. The crisp salad will complement the creamy texture of the casserole beautifully. If you’re looking to serve it as a main course, consider adding a protein, such as grilled chicken or chickpeas, to boost the overall nutritional content.

This dish also makes a fantastic brunch option when served alongside eggs or a light frittata. To elevate your serving style, consider garnishing with fresh herbs like basil or parsley right before serving. This not only adds a pop of color but enhances the dish's fresh flavors.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen vegetables?

Yes, frozen vegetables can work well! Just ensure they are thawed and drained before layering.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days, or freeze for longer storage.

→ Is there a vegan version of this recipe?

Absolutely! You can substitute the cheese with vegan alternatives and use tofu or cashew cream for the ricotta.

→ What side dishes pair well with this casserole?

A fresh garden salad or crusty bread goes beautifully with this casserole for a complete meal.