Are you tired of feeling like a short order cook in your own kitchen? Do you struggle to get your picky eaters to try new vegetables? Fear not! We’ve got a solution that’s sure to please even the most discerning palates. Say hello to our 18 deliciously cheesy vegetable recipes, designed specifically with flavor-loving kids (and adults!) in mind.
From comforting casseroles to crispy fritters and gooey grilled cheese sandwiches, these mouthwatering dishes pack a punch of flavor without sacrificing an ounce of nutrition. And the best part? They’re all ridiculously easy to make! So whether you’re a busy parent looking for a quick weeknight dinner solution or a foodie at heart, we’ve got you covered with our cheesy veggie extravaganza.
In this article, we’ll be diving into 18 mouthwatering recipes that are sure to become new favorites in your household. From classic comfort foods to creative twists on old standbys, these dishes are perfect for anyone looking to add a little excitement (and a lot of cheese!) to their mealtime routine.
Hidden Veggie Mac and Cheese
A creamy macaroni and cheese dish packed with hidden veggies, perfect for sneaking in some extra nutrients.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz macaroni
– 2 cups mixed veggies (finely chopped bell peppers, carrots, zucchini)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup grated mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 3/4 cups milk
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook macaroni according to package instructions until al dente.
3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened (about 3-4 minutes).
4. Add mixed veggies and cook until tender (about 5 minutes).
5. In a separate saucepan, whisk together flour and milk. Bring to a simmer over medium-low.
6. Remove from heat and stir in cheddar and mozzarella cheese until melted and smooth.
7. Combine cooked macaroni, veggie mixture, and cheese sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Transfer to a baking dish and top with additional grated cheese (optional).
9. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Cheesy Broccoli Rice Casserole
A comforting and flavorful casserole perfect for a weeknight dinner or weekend brunch.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked white rice
– 3 cups broccoli florets
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked rice, broccoli florets, shredded cheese, milk, olive oil, salt, pepper, and thyme. Mix well.
3. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish.
4. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the casserole is hot and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
5. Serve warm and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Zucchini Fritters with Parmesan
A delicious and healthy twist on traditional fritters, these zucchini treats are perfect for a quick snack or side dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium zucchini, grated
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/8 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 egg, beaten
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine zucchini, flour, Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper.
2. In a separate bowl, beat the egg. Add the olive oil and mix well.
3. Add the egg mixture to the zucchini mixture and stir until combined.
4. Using a spoon, drop small amounts of the mixture onto a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat.
5. Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, until golden brown and crispy.
6. Serve warm with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Cauliflower Tots with Melted Cheese
A creative twist on traditional tater tots, these cauliflower-based bites are perfect for a healthier snack or side dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of cauliflower
– 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup whole wheat breadcrumbs
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Rinse the cauliflower and remove the leaves and stem. Cut into small florets.
3. Pulse the cauliflower in a food processor until it resembles rice.
4. In a bowl, combine the cauliflower “rice,” grated cheese, breadcrumbs, and olive oil. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Form into small tots (about 1-inch/2.5 cm in diameter).
6. Place the tots on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Sweet Potato Grilled Cheese Sandwich
Sweet Potato Grilled Cheese Sandwich Recipe
Elevate your grilled cheese game with the addition of roasted sweet potatoes, adding a delightful twist to this classic comfort food.
Ingredients:
– 2 slices of bread (white or whole wheat)
– 1 large sweet potato, peeled and sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (or your preferred variety)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. Butter one side of each bread slice.
3. Place one slice, butter-side down, on the grill.
4. Top with a slice of sweet potato, followed by shredded cheese.
5. Add the second bread slice, butter-side up.
6. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until the bread is golden brown and the cheese is melted.
7. Flip the sandwich over and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, until the other side is also toasted.
8. Remove from heat and let cool for a minute before serving.
Cooking Time: Approximately 5-6 minutes per sandwich.
Spinach and Cheese Stuffed Shells
A delicious twist on the classic stuffed shell recipe, this dish combines tender spinach with a blend of creamy cheeses for a mouthwatering treat.
Ingredients:
– 12 jumbo pasta shells
– 2 cups cooked spinach, drained and chopped
– 1 cup ricotta cheese
– 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 egg, beaten
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook pasta shells according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a mixing bowl, combine spinach, ricotta cheese, mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, and egg. Mix well to combine.
4. Stuff each cooked pasta shell with the spinach-cheese mixture, placing them in a baking dish as you go.
5. Drizzle olive oil over the stuffed shells and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Corn and Cheese Quesadillas with Avocado
Transform the humble quesadilla into a flavorful fiesta with sweet corn, melted cheese, and creamy avocado. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or casual gathering.
Ingredients:
– 4 large tortillas
– 1 cup frozen corn kernels, thawed
– 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (divided)
– 1 ripe avocado, diced
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– Cooking spray or oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a bowl, mix together corn and 1 cup of the cheese.
3. Place a tortilla on a flat surface and sprinkle half with the corn mixture.
4. Fold tortilla in half to enclose filling.
5. Brush both sides with cooking spray or oil.
6. Place quesadillas on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving space between each.
7. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until cheese melts and tortilla crisps.
8. Top with remaining cheese and diced avocado.
9. Serve warm and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Loaded Veggie Nachos with Cheese Sauce
Get ready to devour a plate of gooey, cheesy, veggie-packed nachos that will satisfy your cravings!
Ingredients:
– 1 bag tortilla chips
– 2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar or mozzarella work well)
– 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 cup frozen corn kernels
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: jalapeños or hot sauce for added heat
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. Arrange tortilla chips in a single layer on a baking sheet.
3. In a separate bowl, mix together black beans, corn kernels, red bell pepper, onion, and garlic.
4. Spread the veggie mixture over the tortilla chips.
5. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Top with shredded cheese and bake for 15-20 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
7. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Carrot and Cheese Muffins
Moist and flavorful, these muffins are perfect for a snack or breakfast on-the-go.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup grated carrots
– 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1 large egg
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– Fresh parsley or chives for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a 12-cup muffin tin with paper liners.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, combine grated carrots, cheese, milk, egg, and melted butter. Stir until well combined.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and stir until just combined. Do not overmix.
5. Divide batter evenly among muffin cups.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center of a muffin comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Butternut Squash Mac ‘n Cheese
Transform a classic comfort food into a seasonal masterpiece by incorporating roasted butternut squash into your macaroni and cheese.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz macaroni
– 2 medium butternut squashes, peeled and cubed
– 4 tbsp butter
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 cups grated cheddar cheese
– 1 cup grated mozzarella cheese
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook macaroni according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. Toss squash cubes with 2 tbsp butter, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast for 30-40 minutes or until tender.
4. In a large saucepan, melt the remaining 2 tbsp butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour to make a roux, cooking for 1 minute.
5. Gradually add heavy cream, whisking continuously. Bring to a simmer and cook until thickened.
6. Remove from heat and stir in cheddar and mozzarella cheese until melted.
7. Combine cooked macaroni, roasted squash, and cheese sauce in a baking dish. Top with additional grated cheese if desired.
8. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Cheesy Cauliflower Mash
A creamy and comforting twist on traditional mashed cauliflower, this recipe combines the nutritious vegetable with a blend of cheddar cheese and garlic for an irresistible flavor.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of cauliflower
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1/4 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Rinse the cauliflower and remove the leaves and stem.
3. Cut into florets and pulse in a food processor until it resembles rice.
4. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
5. Add the processed cauliflower to the skillet and stir until well combined with the butter mixture.
6. Transfer the cauliflower mixture to a baking dish and top with grated cheddar cheese.
7. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Green Bean Casserole with Crispy Topping
This classic casserole is a staple of comfort food, featuring green beans, creamy sauce, and a crispy topping that adds a satisfying crunch. Perfect for potlucks, family gatherings, or cozy weeknight dinners.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh green beans, trimmed
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 1 cup cream of mushroom soup
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/2 cup French-fried onions
– 1/4 cup grated cheddar cheese
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large skillet, sauté green beans and onion in butter until tender.
3. In a separate bowl, combine cream of mushroom soup, milk, and black pepper. Stir until smooth.
4. Combine cooked green bean mixture with the creamy sauce. Pour into a 9×13-inch baking dish.
5. Top with French-fried onions and grated cheddar cheese.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Bell Pepper Pizza Boats
Transform your pizza game with these colorful Bell Pepper Pizza Boats! This easy-to-make recipe is perfect for a quick dinner or snack.
Ingredients:
– 4 bell peppers, any color
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/2 cup pizza sauce
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
– 1/4 cup sliced pepperoni
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut the tops off the bell peppers, remove seeds and membranes, and place them in a baking dish.
3. In a bowl, mix together mozzarella cheese, pizza sauce, basil, and pepperoni.
4. Stuff each bell pepper with the pizza mixture, dividing it evenly among the four peppers.
5. Drizzle olive oil over the filled peppers and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the bell peppers are tender.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Hidden Veggie Spaghetti Sauce
Elevate your pasta game with this nutritious and delicious spaghetti sauce that sneaks in extra veggies for added nutrition.
Ingredients:
– 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup frozen spinach, thawed and drained
– 1/4 cup grated carrot
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes for some heat
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent (3-4 minutes).
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Stir in the crushed tomatoes, spinach, grated carrot, salt, and pepper.
5. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let cook for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally, allowing flavors to meld.
6. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Cheesy Veggie Tater Tot Casserole
A hearty and satisfying casserole that combines the comforting flavors of tater tots with a medley of vegetables and melted cheese.
Cheesy Veggie Tater Tot Casserole Recipe
Ingredients:
– 1 (32 oz) bag of tater tots
– 2 medium-sized zucchinis, sliced
– 1 medium-sized yellow bell pepper, sliced
– 1 cup frozen peas and carrots
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup milk
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, sauté the zucchinis and bell peppers in olive oil until tender.
3. Add the frozen vegetables and cook until thawed.
4. In a separate bowl, combine the shredded cheddar cheese and grated Parmesan cheese.
5. In a 9×13 inch baking dish, arrange half of the tater tots in an even layer.
6. Top with the vegetable mixture, followed by the cheese blend.
7. Repeat the layers, ending with the remaining tater tots on top.
8. Dot the top with milk and sprinkle with salt and pepper to taste.
9. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until the tater tots are golden brown.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Broccoli and Cheese Stuffed Potatoes
A delicious twist on traditional mashed potatoes, this recipe combines the comfort of cheese and broccoli with the convenience of a one-dish meal. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion!
Ingredients:
– 4 large baking potatoes
– 1 head of broccoli, steamed and chopped
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup milk
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Wash and poke some holes in the potatoes, then bake for 45-50 minutes or until tender.
3. While the potatoes are baking, melt butter in a skillet over medium heat. Add chopped broccoli and cook until tender, about 5 minutes.
4. Remove the potatoes from the oven and let cool for 10-15 minutes.
5. Scoop out some of the potato flesh to make room for the filling. Mix in the cooked broccoli, shredded cheese, and milk.
6. Stuff each potato with the mixture and top with additional shredded cheese if desired.
7. Bake for an additional 10-15 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Carrot and Cheese Pancakes
A delightful twist on traditional pancakes, these sweet and savory treats combine the natural sweetness of carrots with the creaminess of cheese.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 tablespoons sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup grated carrot
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1 large egg
– 2 tablespoons butter, melted
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
2. Add grated cheese, carrot, milk, egg, and melted butter to the dry ingredients. Mix until smooth batter forms.
3. Heat a non-stick pan or griddle over medium heat.
4. Drop 1/4 cup of batter onto the pan for each pancake.
5. Cook for 2-3 minutes, until bubbles appear on surface and edges start to dry.
6. Flip and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Veggie Lasagna Rolls with Ricotta
A creative twist on the classic lasagna, these veggie-packed rolls are filled with creamy ricotta and wrapped in tender pasta sheets.
Ingredients:
– 8-10 lasagna noodles
– 1 cup ricotta cheese
– 1 cup frozen spinach, thawed and drained
– 1 cup sliced mushrooms
– 1 cup diced bell peppers
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 egg, beaten
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Olive oil for greasing
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook lasagna noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a medium bowl, combine ricotta cheese, spinach, mushrooms, bell peppers, onion, garlic, and egg. Mix well to combine.
4. Lay out a cooked lasagna noodle and place about 1/4 cup of the ricotta mixture along the center of the noodle.
5. Roll up the noodle tightly and place seam-side down on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Repeat with remaining noodles and filling.
6. Drizzle the rolls with olive oil and season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Summary
Are you tired of veggie-hating picky eaters? Look no further! This article brings together 18 deliciously cheesy vegetable recipes that are sure to win them over. From mac and cheese with hidden veggies to zucchini fritters with parmesan, these dishes combine the best of both worlds. Plus, get creative with cauliflower tots, sweet potato grilled cheese sandwiches, and spinach-stuffed shells. Whether you’re a parent looking for healthy family meals or just a foodie seeking new inspiration, these recipes are sure to delight! So go ahead, sneak in those veggies – your taste buds (and picky eaters) will thank you!
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