Slow Cooker Cheesy Casserole

This slow cooker cheesy vegetable casserole has become my go-to solution for effortless side dishes when hosting dinner parties or preparing holiday meals. The combination of tender vegetables and rich, melty cheese creates a comforting dish that disappears quickly from the table every time.

I first discovered this recipe when juggling multiple dishes for a family gathering. My hands were full with the main course, and this slow cooker solution saved the day. Now, it's requested at every holiday meal.

Ingredients

• California medley vegetables: 24 oz frozen mix containing broccoli, cauliflower and carrots provides perfect texture variety and balanced flavor profile
• Cheddar cheese condensed soup: 10.5 oz can adds creamy richness and binds everything together beautifully
• Vegetable broth: 1/2 cup creates the perfect consistency and prevents drying out during long cooking
• Shredded cheddar cheese: 1 cup divided adds that irresistible cheesy top layer and extra flavor throughout

Step-by-Step Instructions

Load the Slow Cooker:

Add vegetables, soup, broth, and half the cheese to your slow cooker. Ensure everything is evenly distributed for consistent cooking. This mixture forms the base of your casserole and allows flavors to meld together during cooking.

Slow Cook:

Set your slow cooker to low heat and let everything cook undisturbed for about 3-4 hours. The vegetables will slowly tenderize while absorbing all the cheesy goodness. This hands-off cooking is what makes this recipe so convenient.

Add Final Cheese Layer:

Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of cheese over the top of your vegetable mixture. Replace the lid and allow it to cook for an additional 30 minutes. The steam inside will melt the cheese perfectly, creating that desirable golden top layer.

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One of my favorite things about this casserole is how the cheese soup transforms during cooking. It creates this velvety sauce that coats each vegetable perfectly. My grandmother always said a good casserole should have that perfect balance between sauce and substance, and this recipe achieves exactly that.

Make It Your Own

This casserole welcomes customization based on what you have on hand. Try different vegetable medleys like an Italian blend or Asian mix for variety. You can also substitute cream of mushroom or celery soup if you prefer. The cooking method remains the same, but each variation creates a slightly different flavor profile that keeps the dish interesting.

Storage and Reheating

Once cooled, this casserole stores beautifully in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. When reheating, add a splash of milk or broth to maintain creaminess. I find individual portions heat perfectly in the microwave for 1-2 minutes, while larger amounts benefit from gentle reheating in the oven at 325°F for about 20 minutes.

Serving Suggestions

This versatile side pairs wonderfully with roasted chicken, grilled steaks, or baked ham. For a complete vegetarian meal, serve it alongside a hearty grain like quinoa or farro. During holiday gatherings, I position it between the turkey and mashed potatoes where it bridges the flavors beautifully and offers a colorful addition to the table.

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Frequently Asked Questions

→ Can I use fresh vegetables instead of frozen?

Yes, you can use fresh vegetables. Simply chop them into small, uniform pieces and proceed with the recipe as instructed. Cooking time may vary slightly.

→ Can I add other types of cheese?

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with other cheese varieties like mozzarella, gruyere, or Monterey Jack for a different flavor profile.

→ Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the ingredients in the slow cooker insert one day in advance, refrigerate, and cook when ready. Ensure the insert isn’t too cold before cooking to avoid cracking.

→ Can I make this dish vegan?

Yes, by substituting the cheddar cheese and condensed cheese soup with vegan alternatives, and using vegetable broth, you can make it vegan-friendly.

→ What should I serve this casserole with?

This cheesy vegetable casserole pairs well with roasted meats, grilled chicken, or even a light salad for a balanced meal.