Sunday Baked Vegetable Casserole

Name: Sunday Baked Vegetable Casserole
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 1 h
Yield: 8 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups chopped zucchini; 1 cup diced bell peppers; 1 cup chopped spinach; 1 cup sliced mushrooms; 2 cups marinara sauce; 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese; 1 cup ricotta cheese; 1 cup breadcrumbs; 2 tablespoons olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

I love preparing my Sunday Baked Vegetable Casserole for family gatherings. It’s a colorful and hearty dish that’s packed with vegetables and flavors. Every bite bursts with a medley of seasonal ingredients, making it satisfying and nourishing. On lazy Sundays, this casserole allows me to gather everyone around the table, enjoying food that is both comforting and healthy. Plus, the best part is that it can be customized with whatever vegetables are in season, ensuring freshness and variety every time I make it.

Created by

Charity Bowen

Last updated on 2026-01-13T20:58:13.701Z

Preparing this casserole has become a cherished tradition in my kitchen. The first time I made it, I used a blend of zucchini, bell peppers, and spinach, and my family couldn’t get enough! Baking it fully allows all the flavors to meld together beautifully, resulting in a dish that feels both rich and satisfying yet healthy.

I also discovered a fantastic trick: layering the vegetables and cheese while adding a splash of vegetable broth makes it extra juicy without being soggy. Each time, the casserole comes out perfectly golden and bubbly, ready to be devoured!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Vibrant and fresh flavors that brighten up any meal
Easy to customize with your favorite vegetables
A wholesome, comforting dish that the whole family will enjoy

      

Exploring Seasonal Vegetables

One of the greatest things about the Sunday Baked Vegetable Casserole is its versatility. You can feature whatever seasonal vegetables you have on hand. For spring, asparagus and peas add freshness, while in the fall, root vegetables like carrots and sweet potatoes bring heartiness. This adaptability not only enhances the flavors but also ensures that you’re using fresh, peak-produce, maximizing the texture and nutritional value of your dish.

When incorporating different vegetables, remember to adjust your cooking times slightly. For instance, denser vegetables like carrots might require a few more minutes of sautéing, while delicate greens, such as kale, could cook down in a matter of moments. The goal is to achieve a bright, vibrant mixture that still retains some texture, creating a pleasing contrast in every bite.

Mastering the Layering Technique

Layering is key in creating a beautifully textured casserole. Start with a base of marinara sauce to prevent the bottom from sticking and to infuse moisture throughout the layers. This initial layer acts as a flavorful foundation that seeps up into the vegetables and cheese above, ensuring that every spoonful is rich and tangy.

As you stack your ingredients, use a gentle hand to spread the ricotta cheese. This allows it to remain chunky rather than completely blending into the sauce. The ricotta provides creaminess that contrasts with the melted mozzarella on top, contributing to a delightful mouthfeel. The layering must be not only strategic but also visually appealing, so don’t shy away from arranging the vegetables in an artistic manner.

Baking to Perfection

The baking process crystallizes the flavors of the casserole. Adding foil at the beginning traps steam, allowing the vegetables to cook through and the cheese to melt evenly. After the initial 25 minutes, removing the foil lets the top layer achieve that sought-after golden-brown crust. Keep an eye on the casserole during this final stage; once the edges bubble and the top is slightly crisp, it's time to take it out.

Should you notice the top browning too quickly, feel free to re-cover with foil midway through the final bake. This prevents it from burning while ensuring the internal temperature reaches that creamy, bubbly perfection that defines a great casserole. I often use an instant-read thermometer; the internal temperature should reach about 160°F (71°C) to ensure everything is heated through adequately.

Ingredients

Gather your ingredients for a delightful veggie casserole:

Vegetable Casserole Ingredients

2 cups chopped zucchini
1 cup diced bell peppers
1 cup chopped spinach
1 cup sliced mushrooms
2 cups marinara sauce
2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
1 cup ricotta cheese
1 cup breadcrumbs
2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

Make sure you have everything prepped before starting.

Instructions

Preparing your casserole is simple and straightforward. Follow along!

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

Sauté the Vegetables

In a skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat and sauté the zucchini, bell peppers, spinach, and mushrooms until soft, about 5-7 minutes.

Layer the Ingredients

In a large baking dish, spread half of the marinara sauce, followed by half of the sautéed vegetables, ricotta cheese, and a sprinkle of mozzarella cheese. Repeat the layers with the remaining ingredients.

Add the Breadcrumbs

Finish with a layer of breadcrumbs on top and a bit of extra cheese for a golden crust.

Bake

Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes until bubbly and golden.

Once it’s baked, let it cool for a few minutes before serving!

Pro Tips

Feel free to experiment with different vegetables based on the season. You can also add cooked pasta for additional heartiness.

Customizing Your Casserole

Feel free to experiment with different cheeses based on your taste preferences or dietary needs. For a sharper flavor, consider incorporating aged cheddar or parmesan in place of some of the mozzarella. Dairy-free alternatives like cashew or almond cheese can also work beautifully here, creating a creamy texture without the lactose.

In terms of seasoning, this casserole can be personalized not only by adding various vegetables but also by infusing herbs and spices. A dash of smoked paprika or a pinch of red pepper flakes can add warmth, while fresh herbs like basil or thyme can brighten the dish. Just be cautious not to overpower the delicate flavors of the vegetables.

Storing and Reheating Tips

This casserole holds up well for leftovers, making it an ideal prepare-ahead meal. After baking, allow it to cool completely, then cover and refrigerate for up to three days. To avoid sogginess, I suggest rewarming it in the oven instead of the microwave, which can make the breading soft. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake it for about 15-20 minutes, covered, to reheat thoroughly.

Freezing is also an option. You can freeze the unbaked casserole for up to three months. To do this, assemble it completely but don’t bake until you’re ready to serve. Thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before baking as directed. This makes it easy to whip up a nutritious meal in a pinch, preserving the flavor and texture without losing quality.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

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

→ What can I substitute for ricotta cheese?

You can use cottage cheese or a plant-based ricotta for a dairy-free version.

→ Is this casserole suitable for freezing?

Yes, it freezes well! Just make sure to wrap it tightly before storing. Thaw it overnight in the fridge before baking.

→ Can I add meat to this casserole?

Of course! You can add cooked ground turkey or beef for a non-vegetarian option.