Baked Parmesan Veggie Casserole
Description
Looking for a comforting, crowd-pleasing side dish? This Baked Parmesan Veggie Casserole combines tender broccoli, cauliflower, and carrots with a creamy Parmesan sauce and a golden, buttery breadcrumb topping.
It’s a classic, dairy-rich dish that’s perfect for holiday meals or weeknight dinners when you want something warm, hearty, and satisfying.
Ingredients
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 2 cups cauliflower florets
- 1 cup baby carrots
- 6 Tbsp. butter, divided
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 cups milk
- 1 large egg yolk, beaten
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 tsp. salt
- 1/8 tsp. pepper
- 1/2 cup seasoned bread crumbs
Instructions
- Preheat and steam vegetables. Preheat oven to 400°F. Place vegetables in a steamer basket over 1 inch of boiling water. Cover and steam for 3–4 minutes until crisp-tender. Transfer vegetables to a greased 9x13-inch baking dish. Repeat as needed.
- Prepare sauce base. In a small saucepan over medium heat, melt 4 tablespoons of butter. Add onion and cook until tender, stirring often. Add garlic and cook for 1 more minute.
- Make cheese sauce. Stir in flour until blended. Gradually add milk and bring to a boil. Cook for about 2 minutes, stirring often, until thickened. Slowly stir in egg yolk and cook for 1 additional minute. Remove from heat and stir in Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper.
- Assemble casserole. Pour cheese sauce evenly over the steamed vegetables.
- Add topping. In a small skillet, cook bread crumbs in the remaining butter until golden brown. Sprinkle over the casserole.
- Bake. Bake uncovered for 15–18 minutes or until heated through and lightly golden on top.
Why Dairy?
Milk and Parmesan cheese create a rich, creamy sauce while providing calcium and protein. Dairy helps bind the dish together and enhances both flavor and texture, making vegetables more appealing and satisfying.Make It Your Own
- Add cooked chicken or ham to make it a complete meal
- Swap in seasonal vegetables like green beans or Brussels sprouts
- Use whole wheat breadcrumbs for added fiber
- Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat
Storage Tips
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days
- Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through
- Not ideal for freezing, as the sauce may separate

