Go Back
Seasonal cooking is all about embracing the flavors and ingredients that nature provides at different times of the year. As the leaves change and fall settles in, there's nothing quite like using fresh, wholesome ingredients to create comforting meals that warm both body and soul. One dish that perfectly embodies this spirit is the Harvest Harmony Casserole, a delightful blend of seasonal vegetables that not only tastes incredible but also nourishes your body.

Autumn Vegetable and Cheese Casserole

Embrace the flavors of fall with this comforting Harvest Harmony Casserole, perfect for cozy dinners or festive gatherings. Packed with nutritious butternut squash, Brussels sprouts, and hearty quinoa, this easy weeknight dinner is a warm hug in a dish. Baked to golden perfection and optional creamy cheese, its a delicious way to celebrate seasonal cooking. Try it tonight and savor the essence of autumn on your table. Save this for later!

Ingredients
  

2 cups butternut squash, peeled and diced into bite-sized cubes

2 cups Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved lengthwise

1 cup carrots, sliced into thin rounds

1 cup celery, chopped into small pieces

1 medium onion, diced finely

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves (or substitute with 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme)

1 teaspoon fresh rosemary, finely chopped (or substitute with 1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary)

1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika

1/4 teaspoon freshly grated nutmeg

3 cups vegetable broth

1 cup quinoa, rinsed under cold water

1 1/2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese, divided

1 cup crumbled feta cheese

1/2 cup breadcrumbs (optional, for an extra crunchy topping)

2 tablespoons olive oil

Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

Fresh parsley for garnish, chopped

Instructions
 

Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C) so it's ready for the casserole.

    Sauté the Vegetables: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Once hot, add the diced onion and minced garlic. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes or until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant.

      Add Root Veggies: Next, add in the diced butternut squash, sliced carrots, and chopped celery. Season them with salt, pepper, thyme, rosemary, smoked paprika, and nutmeg. Continue to sauté for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables start to soften.

        Incorporate Brussels Sprouts: Gently fold halved Brussels sprouts into the skillet. Cook for an additional 5 minutes, stirring occasionally to ensure even cooking.

          Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the sautéed vegetable mixture with the rinsed quinoa and vegetable broth. Fold in half of the shredded cheddar cheese and all of the crumbled feta cheese, mixing thoroughly until well combined.

            Transfer to Baking Dish: Pour the hearty mixture into a greased 9x13-inch (or similar sized) baking dish, spreading it out evenly to cover the bottom.

              Top It Off: Sprinkle the remaining shredded cheddar cheese over the top of the casserole. If you desire a crunchy topping, evenly distribute the breadcrumbs over the cheese layer.

                Bake: Cover the casserole with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 35 minutes. After this time, carefully remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbly.

                  Garnish & Serve: Once out of the oven, allow the casserole to cool for a few minutes. Before serving, garnish generously with chopped fresh parsley for a vibrant finishing touch.

                    Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 20 minutes | 60 minutes | 6 servings

                      Enjoy this delightful and wholesome Harvest Harmony Casserole, perfect for cozy gatherings or family dinners!