Before anything else, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your casserole cooks evenly, so it’s ready to go when you are!

Start by washing and chopping your vegetables. You can mix and match based on what you have on hand or what’s in season. A combination of:

Carrots: Peel and slice them into small rounds or sticks.

Broccoli: Cut into bite-sized florets.

Cauliflower: Similarly, chop into florets.

Bell peppers: Dice them into small chunks.

Corn: Use fresh or frozen corn kernels.

Place them all in a large mixing bowl and set them aside.

In a separate bowl, whisk together the following to create the creamy sauce:

Cream of mushroom soup (or cream of chicken for extra richness)

Sour cream

Shredded cheese (cheddar works best for its melty, gooey texture)

Garlic powder and onion powder for seasoning

Salt and pepper to taste

Mix everything well, ensuring the sauce is smooth and creamy.

Pour the creamy sauce over the prepared vegetables, tossing everything together until each vegetable is evenly coated with the sauce. This is where the magic happens! The sauce will hold everything together and provide that delicious, creamy texture.

Grease a 9x13-inch casserole dish with cooking spray or a bit of butter to prevent sticking. Transfer the vegetable and sauce mixture into the dish, spreading it out evenly.

For a crispy topping, sprinkle a generous layer of crushed buttery crackers (like Ritz) on top of the casserole. This adds a satisfying crunch that contrasts perfectly with the creamy filling.

Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender, and the top is golden brown and bubbly. If you want an extra crispy topping, switch the oven to broil for the last 2-3 minutes—just keep an eye on it so it doesn’t burn!

Step 8: Serve and Enjoy!

Once it’s done, remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. This will allow the flavors to meld together even more. Dish out generous portions and enjoy your comforting vegetable casserole!