Chilly Breeze Vegan Casserole (Printable)
A warming blend of squash, beans, and crispy topping for cozy meals.
# List of ingredients:
→ Vegetables
01 - 2 cups butternut squash, peeled and diced
02 - 1 cup carrots, sliced
03 - 1 cup parsnips, sliced
04 - 1 cup frozen peas
05 - 1 large red onion, diced
06 - 2 cloves garlic, minced
07 - 1 cup baby spinach
→ Beans & Protein
08 - 1 can (15 oz) cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
09 - 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
→ Liquids & Sauces
10 - 1 cup unsweetened plant-based milk (soy or oat)
11 - 1 cup low-sodium vegetable broth
12 - 2 tablespoons olive oil
→ Seasonings
13 - 1 teaspoon dried thyme
14 - 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
15 - 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
16 - 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
17 - 1 teaspoon sea salt
→ Topping
18 - 1 cup fresh breadcrumbs (gluten-free if needed)
19 - 2 tablespoons nutritional yeast
20 - 2 tablespoons olive oil
# Steps:
01 - Set the oven to 400°F and allow it to fully preheat.
02 - Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add diced onion and minced garlic, cooking for 3 minutes until softened.
03 - Add diced butternut squash, sliced carrots, and parsnips to the skillet. Cook for 8 to 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until beginning to soften.
04 - Stir in drained cannellini beans, chickpeas, frozen peas, and baby spinach. Cook for an additional 2 minutes.
05 - Pour in plant-based milk and vegetable broth. Incorporate dried thyme, rosemary, smoked paprika, black pepper, and sea salt. Simmer the mixture for 5 minutes while stirring gently.
06 - Move the vegetable and bean mixture into a 9x13-inch casserole dish, spreading evenly.
07 - Combine fresh breadcrumbs, nutritional yeast, and 2 tablespoons olive oil in a bowl. Sprinkle the mixture uniformly over the casserole.
08 - Place uncovered casserole in the oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes until the topping turns golden and filling bubbles.
09 - Remove from oven and let cool for 5 minutes before serving.
# Expert Advice:
01 -
- It feels like sharing a cozy secret: warm, hearty, and completely plant-based without sacrificing flavor
- The golden crunchy topping adds that little surprise that turned it from just dinner to a family favorite
02 -
- Make sure not to overcook the vegetables during sautéing to keep some texture and avoid mushiness
- Combining nutritional yeast with the breadcrumbs creates that irresistible cheesy note without dairy
03 -
- Toast your breadcrumbs lightly if you want an extra crunchy topping before baking
- Using lower heat when simmering the sauce prevents it from reducing too much and keeps it creamy