Sunday Creamy Tomato Vegetable Casserole

Name: Sunday Creamy Tomato Vegetable Casserole
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h 5 min
Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups of diced tomatoes; 1 cup of heavy cream; 1 zucchini, sliced; 1 bell pepper, chopped; 1 cup of spinach, fresh; 1 onion, diced; 3 cloves of garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon of oregano; 1 teaspoon of basil; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 cup of grated cheese (mozzarella or cheddar); 1 cup of breadcrumbs

Highlighted under: Classic Comfort Food Recipes

I love cozy Sundays spent in the kitchen, and this Creamy Tomato Vegetable Casserole is my go-to dish for those lazy afternoons. Combining layers of fresh vegetables with a rich, creamy tomato sauce, it’s a comforting meal that brings joy to the table. I often prepare it for family gatherings, and it always disappears quickly! The blend of spices and creamy texture makes it irresistible, and I've even adapted it to make it healthier without compromising flavor. Trust me, you won't be disappointed when you try this recipe!

Created by

Abigail Moore

Last updated on 2026-01-14T01:25:35.791Z

When I first made this Sunday Creamy Tomato Vegetable Casserole, I wanted to create something hearty and nourishing. As I layered the vegetables and poured in the creamy sauce, I was filled with excitement. The kitchen filled with an aromatic blend of herbs, which made me eager to taste the final product.

The secret lies in roasting the vegetables first; it enhances their flavors and brings out their natural sweetness. I recommend experimenting with your favorite vegetables, as it's wonderfully adaptable and can cater to everyone's tastes!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Creamy, rich tomato flavor that's comforting and warm
Versatile with any seasonal vegetables you like
Easy to prepare and perfect for family gatherings

Choosing Your Vegetables

The beauty of this Creamy Tomato Vegetable Casserole lies in its versatility when it comes to vegetables. You can easily customize the recipe to incorporate whatever seasonal produce you have on hand. For example, asparagus, mushrooms, or carrots can add unique flavors and textures. When selecting your vegetables, aim for a mix of colors to create a vibrant dish. For best results, ensure that your vegetables are fresh to maintain the ideal tenderness and vibrant flavor during cooking.

Another important consideration is the size of your vegetable cuts. Aim for uniform slices, about 1/2 inch thick, to ensure even cooking. If you prefer your vegetables a bit softer, consider rinsing them in boiling water before adding them to the casserole. This step can help cut down baking time and reduce the risk of undercooked veggies.

Making it Your Own

If you’re looking to make this casserole healthier, consider substituting the heavy cream for a combination of Greek yogurt and low-fat milk. This swap will reduce calories while still providing a creamy texture. Additionally, using whole grain breadcrumbs instead of regular can boost fiber content without sacrificing taste. Experiment with different cheese varieties, such as feta or goat cheese, for a tangier flavor that complements the sweetness of the tomatoes.

For those with dietary restrictions, this recipe is easily adaptable. You can make it vegan by using cashew cream or dairy-free alternatives and swapping out cheese for nutritional yeast or a vegan cheese substitute. It's fun to experiment with spices too; a pinch of smoked paprika or red pepper flakes can elevate the dish and introduce subtle heat.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to get started:

Ingredients

2 cups of diced tomatoes
1 cup of heavy cream
1 zucchini, sliced
1 bell pepper, chopped
1 cup of spinach, fresh
1 onion, diced
3 cloves of garlic, minced
1 teaspoon of oregano
1 teaspoon of basil
Salt and pepper to taste
1 cup of grated cheese (mozzarella or cheddar)
1 cup of breadcrumbs

Make sure to prepare your vegetables before you start layering!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your casserole:

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

Sauté the Vegetables

In a large skillet, sauté the onion and garlic until fragrant. Add the zucchini and bell pepper, cooking until tender.

Mix the Creamy Sauce

In a mixing bowl, combine the diced tomatoes, heavy cream, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper.

Layer the Casserole

In a baking dish, layer the sautéed vegetables, fresh spinach, and pour the creamy sauce over them. Sprinkle with cheese and breadcrumbs.

Bake

Cover with foil and bake for 30 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until golden brown.

Serve and Enjoy

Let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your creamy casserole with a side salad!

This dish can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator before baking!

Pro Tips

Feel free to add any other vegetables you enjoy, such as mushrooms or carrots, for extra flavor and nutrients.

Storage and Reheating

This creamy casserole is perfect for meal prep; you can make it ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to three days. To keep the casserole fresh, tightly cover it with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. When you're ready to eat, simply reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, about 20 to 25 minutes. If you want a crispy top, remove the cover for the last 10 minutes of reheating.

For longer storage, the casserole can be frozen for up to three months. Ensure that it’s cooled completely before transferring to an airtight container or freezer-safe dish. To reheat from frozen, transfer to the refrigerator overnight to thaw, then reheat as mentioned above. If cooking straight from frozen, add an additional 10-15 minutes to the baking time.

Serving Suggestions

This casserole makes a satisfying main dish on its own, but it pairs beautifully with a light side salad or crusty bread to soak up the creamy sauce. A simple mix of arugula, cherry tomatoes, and a lemon vinaigrette complements the richness of the casserole without being overwhelming. For a more hearty meal, consider serving it alongside grilled chicken or fish.

If you’re planning a cozy gathering, this casserole is perfect for family-style serving. Set it at the center of the table with a ladle for easy serving, and encourage guests to bring their own favorite side dishes. This not only creates a communal feel but also allows everyone to personalize their meal by mixing and matching flavors.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this casserole vegetarian?

Absolutely! This casserole is already vegetarian-friendly, just ensure the cheese you use is suitable.

→ How can I make this recipe gluten-free?

You can substitute the breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs or oats.

→ What can I serve with this casserole?

It's perfect with a side salad or crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce!

→ Can I freeze leftovers?

Yes, this casserole freezes wonderfully. Just make sure to store it in an airtight container.