Name: Cheesy Roasted Vegetables
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 5 min
Total time: 15 min
Ingredients: 21.6 ounces Birds Eye Frozen Vegetables (I used Broccoli, Cauliflower, and Carrots.); 2 tablespoons Salted Butter; 4 tablespoons Flour; 2 cups Milk; 1.5 cups Shredded Mozzarella Cheese; 1.5 cups Shredded Sharp Cheddar Cheese; to taste Salt and Pepper (to taste)

Jump to Recipe Print Recipe

Nothing beats the warmth and comfort of Cheesy Roasted Vegetables on a chilly winter evening. I remember the first time I made this dish; I had a bag of frozen vegetables in the freezer, and I wanted to elevate them into something special. As the wind howled outside, I prepped my ingredients, knowing that the melted cheese would create a cozy hug of flavor. This recipe has become my go-to for family dinners and casual gatherings alike. The best part? It’s deliciously simple and packs a punch of flavor while being incredibly satisfying.

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
15 mins

Prep Time:
10 mins

Cook Time:
5 mins

Difficulty:
Medium

Calories:
250 kcal

Protein:
12 g

Diet:
Keto, Gluten-Free

Fat:
15 g

Tools Used:
Baking Sheet

Why This Cheesy Roasted Vegetables Stands Out

The Comfort of Cheese and Vegetables

What’s not to love about combining fresh vegetables with gooey, melted cheese? Cheesy Roasted Vegetables is a delightful way to make your veggies the star of the meal. The combination of melted mozzarella and sharp cheddar creates a creamy sauce that clings to the vegetables, enhancing their natural flavors.

Quick and Easy Preparation

This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights. With just a few simple steps, you can have a warm, cheesy dish ready in no time. Simply toss the vegetables with the creamy cheese sauce, pop it in the oven, and in minutes, you’ll have a dish that the whole family will love.

Versatile and Customizable

One of the things I adore about Cheesy Roasted Vegetables is its versatility. You can easily mix and match your favorite vegetables, whether you have broccoli, cauliflower, or even zucchini. It’s a great way to use up leftover veggies you have on hand.

A Perfect Side Dish

This dish shines as a side, complementing any main course beautifully. Whether served alongside grilled chicken or a hearty pasta dish, it enhances the overall meal with its rich flavors and comforting texture.

Family-Friendly and Kid-Approved

Let’s be honest; kids can be picky eaters. However, the cheesy goodness of this dish makes it a hit among children. They won’t even realize they’re eating their veggies!

The Allure of Roasting

Roasting brings out the natural sweetness of the vegetables, creating a delightful contrast with the savory cheese sauce. This method adds depth of flavor that you simply can’t achieve by steaming or boiling. The slight caramelization makes every bite irresistible.

What to Gather for Cheesy Roasted Vegetables

Gathering fresh ingredients is the first step to making the most delicious Cheesy Roasted Vegetables. The key players in this dish are the frozen vegetables and the creamy cheese sauce. The combination creates a rich, comforting dish that is perfect for chilly evenings.

21.6 ounces Birds Eye Frozen Vegetables: This blend usually features broccoli, cauliflower, and carrots, providing a colorful and nutritious base for your dish. Frozen vegetables are a great time-saver without sacrificing quality.
2 tablespoons salted butter: Essential for creating a luscious cheese sauce, butter adds richness and depth of flavor.
4 tablespoons flour: This acts as a thickening agent, helping to create a creamy texture in the sauce.
2 cups milk: The base for the cheese sauce, milk adds creaminess and helps to meld all the flavors together.
1.5 cups shredded mozzarella cheese: Mozzarella contributes a lovely stretchiness and mild flavor that complements the dish perfectly.
1.5 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese: Its bold flavor adds a nice kick and balances the creaminess of the mozzarella.
Salt and pepper to taste: These staples elevate the flavors in the dish, enhancing the overall taste profile.

Preparation Steps for Cheesy Roasted Vegetables

Making Cheesy Roasted Vegetables is a breeze, and I love how quickly it comes together! Follow these simple steps to create a cozy, cheesy dish that everyone will enjoy. Let’s get started on this delicious journey!

Preheat your oven to 425°F. Preheating is essential to getting that perfect roast on your vegetables. You’ll want them to have a nice golden color by the time they’re done cooking.
Prepare the frozen vegetables according to the package instructions. Drain and pat dry. This step is crucial to ensure your cheese sauce adheres well to the veggies and doesn’t get watery. You’ll want them to have a slight crunch before they go into the oven.
Spread the vegetables on a baking sheet sprayed with nonstick spray in a single layer. This will help the vegetables cook evenly and achieve that lovely roasted texture we’re after.
In a medium saucepan over medium/low heat, melt the butter. Watching it melt is quite satisfying; the aroma fills the kitchen and gets you excited for what’s to come.
Add the flour and whisk to combine. Stir it well to avoid any lumps. Cooking the flour for a minute helps remove the raw taste and enhances the sauce.
Whisk in the milk and bring it to a low boil. Remember to stir continuously to prevent the sauce from sticking to the bottom of the pan. This is where the magic happens!
Once it reaches a simmer, let it thicken for about 3 to 4 minutes. Keep stirring! You’ll notice the sauce becoming creamier and more luxurious.
Stir in the mozzarella cheese in batches, completely melting it before adding more. This gradual approach ensures a smooth, creamy consistency.
If the cheese sauce becomes too thick, add a little more milk to loosen it. Then, season with salt and pepper to taste. This is your chance to adjust the flavors to your liking!
Remove the cheese sauce from the stovetop and generously spoon it over the vegetables on the sheet pan. Make sure every piece is coated for that delightful cheese experience in each bite.
Place the baking sheet in the oven and cook for 5 minutes. This helps meld the flavors together.
Change the oven setting to broil and cook for an additional 1 to 2 minutes until the cheese starts to bubble. Keep a close eye on it to prevent burning; we want a golden, bubbly finish.
Remove from the oven and serve immediately. Enjoy this Cheesy Roasted Vegetables as a comforting side dish or a main attraction!

Things Worth Knowing

Choose the right vegetables: Make sure to select vegetables that roast well, such as broccoli, cauliflower, or carrots. These will hold their texture during cooking.
Don’t skip the broil: Broiling at the end is key for that bubbling, golden cheese topping. It enhances both flavor and appearance.
Adjust the sauce consistency: If your cheese sauce is too thick, don’t hesitate to add a splash more milk to achieve your desired consistency.
Experiment with cheeses: While mozzarella and cheddar are classic choices, feel free to experiment with other cheeses like Gouda or Monterey Jack for a different twist.

Customization Ideas

One of the joys of making Cheesy Roasted Vegetables is its flexibility. Here are some ideas to make this dish your own, ensuring it suits your taste and dietary needs:

Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for the best texture.
Freezing: You can freeze the cooked dish. To reheat, place in the oven until heated through, adding a little extra cheese if desired.
Pairing: Serve alongside grilled chicken or fish for a complete meal. It also goes well with crusty bread or a fresh salad.
Vegetarian Option: Keep it vegetarian by using vegetable broth instead of chicken broth in the cheese sauce.
Spice it up: Add some red pepper flakes or your favorite hot sauce to the cheese sauce for an extra kick.
Herbs and spices: Don’t forget to add your favorite herbs, like thyme or rosemary, to the vegetables before roasting for additional flavor.

What to Serve With Cheesy Roasted Vegetables

When it comes to serving Cheesy Roasted Vegetables, the options are endless. It’s suitable for any meal, from casual weeknight dinners to holiday feasts. Here’s how to elevate your dining experience:

With Grilled Proteins: This dish pairs wonderfully with grilled chicken or fish, creating a balanced plate that satisfies.
As a Standalone Dish: Enjoy it as a light lunch or a hearty snack. The cheesy goodness is filling and comforting.
Alongside Fresh Salads: A crisp green salad can cut through the richness of the cheese, making for a refreshing contrast.
Perfect for Occasions: This dish is great for potlucks, family gatherings, or even holiday meals. It’s sure to impress your guests.
Seasonal Pairings: During winter, serve it alongside roasted meats or warming soups for a cozy meal.
Make it a Meal: Add grains like quinoa or rice to your plate for a complete meal that’s satisfying and nutritious.

FAQ

Absolutely! Fresh vegetables can be used in place of frozen ones for Cheesy Roasted Vegetables. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time as fresh vegetables may take a little longer to cook. Ensure they are cut into similar sizes for even cooking. You might want to pre-cook them slightly to ensure the cheese sauce has enough time to melt properly without overcooking the vegetables.

While mozzarella and cheddar are fantastic choices for Cheesy Roasted Vegetables, feel free to experiment! You can use Gouda for a smoky flavor or a sprinkle of Parmesan for a nutty finish. Mixing different types of cheese can create unique flavor profiles that make the dish even more exciting. Just remember that the melting quality is important, so choose cheeses that melt well.

If you find that Cheesy Roasted Vegetables is too rich for your liking, consider reducing the amount of cheese or using lower-fat alternatives. You can also add more vegetables to balance the dish, making it lighter. Adding a zing of lemon juice before serving can also brighten the flavors without adding heaviness.

Yes, you can prepare Cheesy Roasted Vegetables ahead of time! Simply assemble the dish up to the baking step, cover it, and refrigerate. When you’re ready to bake, just follow the cooking instructions as normal. This makes it a great option for meal prep or family gatherings when you want to save time in the kitchen.

Conclusion

Cheesy Roasted Vegetables is a delightful combination of comfort food and healthier eating, making it an excellent choice for anyone looking to enjoy a satisfying dish. The creamy cheese sauce enveloping the roasted vegetables creates a perfect harmony of flavors that can please any palate. I encourage you to try making this dish, as it’s not just delicious but also incredibly versatile. You might just find it becoming a favorite in your home!

Cheesy Roasted Vegetables

The ultimate comfort food, Cheesy Roasted Vegetables are creamy, cheesy, and incredibly easy to prepare. Perfect for a cozy winter night, this dish brings together the goodness of vegetables with the richness of melted cheese. Enjoy it as a family-friendly side or a hearty main dish!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 10

Cook Time 5

Total Time 15

Servings: 8 servings

Course: Side Dishes

Cuisine: American

Calories: 250

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

21.6 ounces Birds Eye Frozen Vegetables I used Broccoli, Cauliflower, and Carrots.
2 tablespoons Salted Butter
4 tablespoons Flour
2 cups Milk
1.5 cups Shredded Mozzarella Cheese
1.5 cups Shredded Sharp Cheddar Cheese
to taste Salt and Pepper to taste

Equipment

Baking Sheet

Method

Preheat your oven to 425°F. Preheating is essential to getting that perfect roast on your vegetables. You'll want them to have a nice golden color by the time they’re done cooking.
Prepare the frozen vegetables according to the package instructions. Drain and pat dry. This step is crucial to ensure your cheese sauce adheres well to the veggies and doesn’t get watery. You'll want them to have a slight crunch before they go into the oven.
Spread the vegetables on a baking sheet sprayed with nonstick spray in a single layer. This will help the vegetables cook evenly and achieve that lovely roasted texture we’re after.
In a medium saucepan over medium/low heat, melt the butter. Watching it melt is quite satisfying; the aroma fills the kitchen and gets you excited for what’s to come.
Add the flour and whisk to combine. Stir it well to avoid any lumps. Cooking the flour for a minute helps remove the raw taste and enhances the sauce.
Whisk in the milk and bring it to a low boil. Remember to stir continuously to prevent the sauce from sticking to the bottom of the pan. This is where the magic happens!
Once it reaches a simmer, let it thicken for about 3 to 4 minutes. Keep stirring! You'll notice the sauce becoming creamier and more luxurious.
Stir in the mozzarella cheese in batches, completely melting it before adding more. This gradual approach ensures a smooth, creamy consistency.
If the cheese sauce becomes too thick, add a little more milk to loosen it. Then, season with salt and pepper to taste. This is your chance to adjust the flavors to your liking!
Remove the cheese sauce from the stovetop and generously spoon it over the vegetables on the sheet pan. Make sure every piece is coated for that delightful cheese experience in each bite.
Place the baking sheet in the oven and cook for 5 minutes. This helps meld the flavors together.
Change the oven setting to broil and cook for an additional 1 to 2 minutes until the cheese starts to bubble. Keep a close eye on it to prevent burning; we want a golden, bubbly finish.
Remove from the oven and serve immediately. Enjoy this Cheesy Roasted Vegetables as a comforting side dish or a main attraction!