Description

A cozy and flavorful Cheesy Autumn Vegetable Bake combining the best seasonal vegetables with a rich blend of melted cheeses, fresh herbs, and comforting spices. Perfect for family meals or chilly evenings, this easy-to-make bake offers a delicious balance of textures and tastes, showcasing the vibrant flavors of autumn.

Ingredients

Scale

Autumn Vegetables

2 cups butternut squash, peeled and chopped
2 cups sweet potatoes, peeled and chopped
1 cup Brussels sprouts, halved
1 cup carrots, peeled and chopped

Onions and Garlic

1 medium onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced

Oils and Seasonings

3 tbsp olive oil
1 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper
1/2 tsp smoked paprika

Cheese Blend

1 cup sharp cheddar, grated
1 cup mozzarella, grated
1/2 cup Parmesan, grated

Herbs

1 tsp fresh thyme leaves (or 1/2 tsp dried)
1 tsp fresh rosemary, chopped (or 1/2 tsp dried)

Optional Topping

1/2 cup breadcrumbs
1 tbsp butter (for toasting breadcrumbs)

Instructions

Prepare and Roast the Vegetables: Peel and chop the autumn vegetables into even pieces for uniform roasting. Toss them with olive oil, salt, pepper, minced garlic, and herbs on a baking sheet. Roast in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for 25-30 minutes, until tender and slightly caramelized at the edges.
Mix the Cheese and Prepare the Baking Dish: While the vegetables roast, grate the cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheeses, then mix them together in a bowl. Lightly grease a baking dish with olive oil or butter to prevent sticking. Spread half of the roasted vegetables evenly in the dish.
Layer and Assemble: Sprinkle half of the cheese mixture over the first vegetable layer. Add the remaining roasted vegetables on top, followed by the rest of the cheese. If desired, sprinkle breadcrumbs over the cheese layer for a crunchy topping.
Bake Until Golden and Bubbly: Return the assembled dish to the oven and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 15-20 minutes, until the cheese is melted, bubbling, and golden brown on top.
Rest and Serve: Allow the bake to rest for 5-10 minutes after removal from the oven. This helps the flavors meld and allows for easier serving. Garnish with fresh herbs such as parsley or thyme if desired before serving.

Notes

Chop vegetables evenly to ensure they roast uniformly.
Pre-roasting vegetables deepens their flavor and sweetness.
Use a blend of cheeses for optimal melt and flavor.
Allow the dish to rest so it sets well and holds its shape.
Toast breadcrumbs with butter before topping for extra crunch and flavor.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Category: Appetizers
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 serving
Calories: 350 kcal
Sugar: 8 g
Sodium: 400 mg
Fat: 18 g
Saturated Fat: 8 g
Unsaturated Fat: 9 g
Trans Fat: 0 g
Carbohydrates: 36 g
Fiber: 6 g
Protein: 15 g
Cholesterol: 45 mg

Keywords: cheesy vegetable bake, autumn vegetables, comfort food, baked cheese casserole, seasonal vegetables, family meal, easy bake, gluten free casserole