If you are looking for a comforting dish that brings together vibrant veggies, creamy cheddar cheese, and the delightful crunch of Ritz crackers, then the Veggie and Cheddar Casserole with Ritz Cracker Topping Recipe is exactly what you need on your dinner table. This casserole is a heartwarming medley of tender mixed vegetables and broccoli, enveloped in a luscious cheesy sauce, and topped with buttery, crunchy Ritz cracker crumbs that elevate every bite. Easy to prepare and irresistibly delicious, this dish is perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or anytime you want a soulful, satisfying meal without hours in the kitchen.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering fresh and straightforward ingredients is key to making this dish shine. Each component plays an essential role in creating the perfect texture, flavor, and aroma that defines the Veggie and Cheddar Casserole with Ritz Cracker Topping Recipe.
- 12 ounces mixed vegetables (frozen): A colorful blend adds a variety of textures and nutrients with minimal prep time.
- 12 ounces broccoli florets (frozen): Adds a fresh, slightly crisp bite and a hit of green goodness.
- 2 cups cheddar cheese (shredded): Rich, sharp cheese melts beautifully into the veggie mix for creamy indulgence.
- 2 cans cream of mushroom soup: Acts as a velvety binder, infusing the casserole with savory depth.
- 1 cup sour cream: Adds tanginess and extra creaminess to balance the cheese and veggies.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors without overpowering.
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper: Provides a gentle kick of warmth.
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder: Brings subtle, aromatic depth to every bite.
- 2/3 teaspoon onion powder: Adds a sweet and savory background flavor.
- 1 sleeve Ritz crackers (crushed, about 32 crackers): The star topping offering buttery, golden crunchiness.
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter (melted): Binds the cracker crumbs and adds richness to the topping.
- Fresh parsley (chopped for garnish, optional): A pop of color and freshness to finish the dish.
How to Make Veggie and Cheddar Casserole with Ritz Cracker Topping Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Dish
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch casserole dish to prevent sticking and ensure easy serving later. This simple first step sets the stage for your casserole masterpiece.
Step 2: Cook and Drain Your Veggies
Cook the frozen mixed vegetables and broccoli according to their package instructions. Properly cooking them ensures they’re tender but still retain a slight bite, offering a lovely textural contrast. Be sure to drain any excess water so your casserole doesn’t turn out soggy.
Step 3: Combine the Creamy Veggie Mixture
In a large bowl, lovingly combine your perfectly cooked vegetables with shredded cheddar, cream of mushroom soup, sour cream, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. Mix everything thoroughly until each piece is enveloped in that rich, savory mixture that promises every spoonful will be delicious.
Step 4: Make the Ritz Cracker Topping
In a small bowl, blend the crushed Ritz crackers with the melted butter until they form a uniformly coated crumb mixture. This step is the secret to that irresistible golden crunch topping that takes the casserole from great to unforgettable.
Step 5: Assemble the Casserole
Evenly spread the veggie and cheddar mixture into your prepared baking dish. Smooth it out to create a nice even layer which will allow the topping to sit perfectly on top.
Step 6: Add the Crunchy Ritz Cracker Topping
Sprinkle the buttery Ritz cracker crumbs generously over the vegetable mixture. Don’t be shy here; this layer will become the flavorful, crispy crown that everyone will love.
Step 7: Bake to Perfection
Bake your creation in the preheated oven for 25 to 30 minutes. Look for the cheese to be melted and bubbly, and the Ritz topping to reach a beautiful golden brown. This oven time melds all the flavors and textures together in one harmonious, cozy dish.
Step 8: Garnish and Serve
After baking, let your casserole rest for a few minutes. This brief wait allows it to set so serving is a breeze. Sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley for a vibrant, fresh finish that enhances both appearance and flavor.
How to Serve Veggie and Cheddar Casserole with Ritz Cracker Topping Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh parsley is a classic choice to add a burst of color and fresh herbaceous notes. If you want to get creative, a light drizzle of sour cream or even a sprinkle of paprika can add a tasty visual and flavor boost.
Side Dishes
This casserole stands beautifully as a main dish but also pairs wonderfully with simple sides like a crisp green salad, garlic bread, or even roasted chicken. The creamy texture and crunchy topping provide a perfect contrast to lighter, fresher plates.
Creative Ways to Present
For a more festive presentation, serve the casserole in individual ramekins topped with a mini sprig of parsley or chives. You can also elevate the dish by offering assorted dipping sauces on the side, such as a tangy ranch or spicy sriracha mayo.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Any leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The casserole holds moisture well, so reheating will bring back that creamy goodness without drying out.
Freezing
If you want to keep the casserole longer, freezing is a great option. Place it in a freezer-safe dish or wrap tightly in foil and plastic wrap, and it will maintain quality for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through and the topping is slightly crisp again. Alternatively, microwaving works for a quicker option, but you might lose some crispiness.
FAQs
Can I use fresh vegetables instead of frozen?
Absolutely! Fresh veggies work great. Just be sure to steam or cook them until tender before mixing so the casserole cooks evenly and the textures meld properly.
Is it possible to make this casserole vegetarian or vegan?
For a vegetarian version, this recipe already fits well. To make it vegan, substitute the cheddar cheese with a plant-based alternative, use vegan sour cream, and replace the cream of mushroom soup with a vegan-friendly cream sauce. Use vegan buttery spread for the topping as well.
Can I prepare this casserole ahead of time?
Yes! You can assemble the casserole up to a day in advance and keep it covered in the fridge. Just add the Ritz cracker topping right before baking for the best crunch.
What can I do if I don’t have Ritz crackers?
Crushed breadcrumbs mixed with melted butter work as a nice substitute. For extra flavor, try crushed saltine crackers or even crushed cornflakes.
How do I get the topping extra crunchy?
Make sure to spread the butter evenly over the crushed crackers and bake uncovered so the topping crisps up nicely without steaming.
Final Thoughts
This Veggie and Cheddar Casserole with Ritz Cracker Topping Recipe is hands down a crowd-pleaser that’s easy enough for a weeknight but special enough for guests. Its wonderful balance of creamy, cheesy, and crunchy textures makes it a comforting classic worth making again and again. I can’t wait for you to try it and make it one of your favorites too!
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Veggie and Cheddar Casserole with Ritz Cracker Topping Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A comforting and cheesy veggie casserole featuring a medley of mixed vegetables and broccoli baked with cheddar cheese and cream of mushroom soup, topped with a crispy Ritz cracker and butter crumb crust. Perfect as a hearty side dish or a light vegetarian main.
Ingredients
Vegetables
- 12 ounce mixed vegetables (frozen)
- 12 ounce broccoli florets (frozen)
Dairy and Cream Base
- 2 cups cheddar cheese (shredded)
- 2 cans cream of mushroom soup
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter (melted)
Seasonings
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 2/3 teaspoon onion powder
Topping
- 1 sleeve Ritz crackers (crushed, about 32 crackers)
Garnish (Optional)
- fresh parsley (chopped)
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking casserole dish to prevent sticking and facilitate easy serving.
- Cook Vegetables: Cook the frozen mixed vegetables and frozen broccoli according to the package instructions until tender, then drain any excess water to avoid a watery casserole.
- Mix Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked vegetables with shredded cheddar cheese, cream of mushroom soup, sour cream, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. Stir thoroughly until all ingredients are evenly coated and blended.
- Prepare Topping: In a small bowl, mix the crushed Ritz cracker crumbs with melted butter until well combined to create a flavorful, crispy topping.
- Assemble Casserole: Spread the vegetable and cheese mixture evenly into the prepared casserole dish to ensure uniform cooking.
- Add Topping: Sprinkle the buttered Ritz cracker crumb topping evenly over the vegetable mixture for a crunchy finish.
- Bake: Bake the casserole in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the cracker topping is golden brown and crisp.
- Garnish and Serve: Allow the casserole to cool slightly after baking, then garnish with chopped fresh parsley if desired before serving warm.
Notes
- Use fresh parsley as a garnish to add color and a mild herb flavor.
- Ensure vegetables are well drained to prevent excess moisture in the casserole.
- For a gluten-free version, substitute Ritz crackers with gluten-free breadcrumbs.
- The casserole can be prepared ahead and refrigerated before baking; add a few extra minutes to the baking time if baking from cold.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven.
