Sunday Baked Vegetable Casserole

Name: Sunday Baked Vegetable Casserole
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h 5 min
Yield: 8 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups chopped zucchini; 2 cups chopped bell peppers (red and yellow); 1 cup chopped onion; 2 cups spinach, wilted; 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese; 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 3 cups marinara sauce; 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 cup breadcrumbs; 2 tablespoons olive oil

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

I love preparing a Sunday Baked Vegetable Casserole for my family and friends. It’s the perfect dish to showcase seasonal vegetables while bringing everyone together at the dinner table. The aroma wafting through the kitchen while it bakes is enough to make anyone’s mouth water. This hearty casserole is easy to make and can be customized based on what you have on hand. I often add my favorite cheeses for extra creaminess, making it a comforting and fulfilling meal. You can’t go wrong with this recipe, as it’s both nutritious and delicious!

Created by

Rebecca Mills

Last updated on 2026-01-13T20:28:12.271Z

When I first decided to make a baked vegetable casserole, I wanted to ensure it was packed with flavor and texture. After trying various combinations, I discovered that roasting the vegetables prior to assembling the casserole enhances their natural sweetness. This simple step makes a big difference in the overall taste!

As I experimented with different spices and cheeses, I realized that adding fresh herbs just before serving elevates the dish to a whole new level. The freshness brings everything together beautifully, making each bite an explosion of flavor. This casserole has become a staple in my household!

        You Will Love This Recipe Because:
        Loaded with a variety of fresh vegetables for a healthy twist
Comforting, creamy cheese that hugs each layer perfectly
Versatile enough to customize with your favorite ingredients

      

Choosing the Right Vegetables

Selecting seasonal vegetables is key to making this casserole shine. Zucchini and bell peppers provide a delicious, sweet base, while wilted spinach adds a touch of earthy flavor and vibrant color. You can easily substitute or add other vegetables like diced eggplant, mushrooms, or broccoli, which work well when roasted. Just remember that the cooking time may vary based on the moisture content and density of the vegetables you choose.

When preparing your vegetables, aim for uniform chopping to ensure even roasting. As the veggies roast at 400°F, they should become slightly caramelized and tender, bringing out their natural sweetness. Check for doneness around the 20-minute mark; they should be lightly golden and just starting to soften.

Baking Techniques for Optimal Texture

The layering technique in this casserole is essential for achieving a delightful texture. When you layer the roasted vegetables with marinara and cheeses, each component contributes to a lush mouthfeel. The mozzarella provides a stretchy, melty quality, while the Parmesan introduces a nuttiness that layers richness without overwhelming the dish. Be sure to sprinkle the layers evenly to ensure every bite is equally flavorful.

For the breadcrumb topping, consider using panko instead of regular breadcrumbs for an extra crunch. Before baking, adding a drizzle of olive oil enhances browning and adds flavor. Keep an eye on the casserole in the final baking stage; the top should be bubbling and golden brown, which is an indicator that your casserole is ready to pull from the oven.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to create your Sunday Baked Vegetable Casserole:

Casserole Ingredients

2 cups chopped zucchini
2 cups chopped bell peppers (red and yellow)
1 cup chopped onion
2 cups spinach, wilted
2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
3 cups marinara sauce
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper to taste
1 cup breadcrumbs
2 tablespoons olive oil

Feel free to mix and match your favorite vegetables!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your delicious casserole:

Prepare the Vegetables

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). In a large bowl, combine all chopped vegetables with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread the vegetables on a baking sheet and roast for 20 minutes.

Assemble the Casserole

In a large baking dish, layer half of the roasted vegetables, half of the marinara sauce, half of the mozzarella, and half of the Parmesan. Repeat the layers until all ingredients are used.

Add Toppings

Sprinkle the breadcrumbs evenly over the top layer of cheese. Drizzle with olive oil for added crispness.

Bake

Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 20 minutes or until the top is golden brown and bubbly.

Cool and Serve

Let the casserole cool for 10 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh herbs if desired!

Enjoy your delicious Sunday Baked Vegetable Casserole!

Pro Tips

To make this dish gluten-free, substitute regular breadcrumbs with gluten-free options. You can also add cooked protein such as chicken or turkey for added heartiness.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

This casserole is an excellent make-ahead dish. You can assemble it a day in advance, cover it tightly with plastic wrap, and store it in the refrigerator. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully. When you’re ready to bake, simply remove the wrap, add the breadcrumb topping, and bake straight from the fridge. Just add 10-15 extra minutes to the baking time to ensure it's heated through.

If you have leftovers, they can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or warm the whole casserole in the oven at 350°F until heated through. This dish also freezes well; just be aware that the texture may change slightly after thawing, especially for the vegetables.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

To elevate the presentation, consider garnishing your baked vegetable casserole with freshly chopped herbs such as basil or parsley right before serving. This not only adds a pop of color but also enhances the freshness of the dish. A light green salad or crusty bread pairs wonderfully, making it a complete meal that is satisfying yet not overly heavy.

For a different flavor profile, experiment with different herbs and spices in the marinara sauce. Adding a splash of balsamic vinegar can heighten the dish’s depth, while a pinch of crushed red pepper can lend a delightful heat. Feel free to swap the cheeses as well—cheddar or goat cheese can provide distinct flavors, resulting in a unique twist on this comforting classic.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this casserole in advance?

Yes! You can assemble the casserole a day ahead and refrigerate it. Simply bake it when you're ready to serve.

→ What other vegetables can I use?

You can use any of your favorite vegetables such as broccoli, cauliflower, or carrots. Just ensure they are cut into similar sizes for even cooking.

→ Is this recipe vegetarian?

Absolutely! This casserole is packed with veggies and cheese, making it a great vegetarian option.

→ Can I freeze leftovers?

Yes! Cool the casserole completely, then store it in an airtight container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months.