If you’re searching for a cozy, comforting dish that will become a staple in your home, let me introduce you to the unbeatable Creamy Vegetable Casserole with Cheddar and Ritz Cracker Topping Recipe. This casserole brings together vibrant frozen vegetables in a luscious creamy sauce, layered with sharp cheddar cheese and finished off with a golden, buttery Ritz cracker crust that adds a satisfying crunch. Perfect for busy weeknights or as a crowd-pleaser at family gatherings, this casserole truly delivers warmth and flavor in every bite.

The image shows a close-up of a creamy rice casserole with mixed vegetables like corn, carrots, green beans, peas, and broccoli. It has one visible thick layer of soft, creamy rice mixed with colorful veggies, surrounded by a crispy golden brown topping that looks crunchy. A spoon with food is scooping from the middle, highlighting the inside layer's creamy texture. The dish is in a white dish on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe calls for simple, easy-to-find ingredients that each play a vital role in creating the perfect balance of creaminess, zest, and texture. From the tender onions that add sweetness to the pop of cheddar cheese and the crispy Ritz cracker topping, every component is essential in making this casserole shine.

Yellow onion (1 small, finely diced): Adds subtle sweetness and depth to the creamy base.
Butter (1 tablespoon + 2 tablespoons melted): For sautéing the onions and crisping up the cracker topping with rich, buttery flavor.
Condensed cream of mushroom soup (10.5 oz): Acts as the creamy backbone holding everything together.
Milk (½ cup): Lightens the sauce just enough for a silky texture.
Sour cream (½ cup): Makes the casserole irresistibly creamy with a slight tang.
Shredded cheddar cheese (8 oz, divided): Brings sharpness and smooth meltiness to the dish.
Frozen broccoli (2 heaping cups): Adds color, nutrients, and a tender bite.
Frozen mixed vegetables (3 cups): A flavorful medley that provides variety and vibrancy.
Large eggs (2, whisked): Help bind all the ingredients together for a perfect casserole set.
Cooked rice (2 cups): Gives the casserole substance and a lovely, fluffy texture.
Garlic salt (½ teaspoon): Infuses subtle savory notes.
Salt (½ teaspoon): Enhances every flavor in the dish.
Mustard powder (½ teaspoon): Provides a hint of gentle warmth and complexity.
Italian seasoning (½ teaspoon): Infuses an aromatic herb kick.
Black pepper (¼ teaspoon): Rounds out the seasoning with a mild bite.
Ritz crackers (1 cup crushed, about ¾ sleeve): Creates an irresistible crispy, buttery topping.

How to Make Creamy Vegetable Casserole with Cheddar and Ritz Cracker Topping Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Onion and Cream Sauce

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F. Melt a tablespoon of butter in a large pot over medium heat, then add the finely diced onions and gently sauté them for about 5 minutes until they’re tender and fragrant. This step unlocks their sweetness, which softens the flavor foundation of our casserole sauce. Next, stir in the cream of mushroom soup, milk, sour cream, and all the seasonings — garlic salt, salt, mustard powder, Italian seasoning, and black pepper. Stir this mixture until it’s smooth and aromatic, setting the stage for a creamy, flavorful base.

Step 2: Add Cheese and Vegetables

Once your sauce is ready, fold in half of your shredded cheddar cheese and stir until it has melted completely. The cheddar adds that iconic creamy sharpness—the heart of this dish’s comfortness. Now, toss in the frozen broccoli and mixed vegetables straight from the freezer. Give them time to heat through in the sauce, but avoid overcooking so they maintain their color and bite. After they’re warmed up, remove the pot from heat and let the mixture cool slightly. This prevents the eggs in the next step from scrambling and keeps your casserole silky smooth.

Step 3: Combine Eggs and Rice

It’s time to bring everything together by stirring in the whisked eggs and previously cooked rice. The eggs act as a binder, ensuring your casserole holds its shape when baked, while the rice adds heartiness and comforting texture that makes this dish so satisfying. Give everything a good mix to evenly distribute the ingredients before transferring the mixture to a lightly greased 9×13 inch casserole dish.

Step 4: Bake and Add Cheddar Topping

Spread the remaining shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top of your casserole. Cover it with foil and bake in your preheated oven for 20 minutes. Meanwhile, combine your crushed Ritz crackers with the melted butter, blending well so every crumb is coated and ready to crisp up beautifully.

Step 5: Add Ritz Cracker Topping and Finish Baking

After the initial baking, carefully remove the casserole from the oven, uncover, and sprinkle the buttery Ritz cracker mixture evenly on top. Set it back in the oven uncovered for another 10 minutes so the topping turns golden, crunchy, and utterly irresistible. When it’s done, take it out and let it cool just slightly before serving to let all those rich flavors settle and meld perfectly.

How to Serve Creamy Vegetable Casserole with Cheddar and Ritz Cracker Topping Recipe

Creamy Vegetable Casserole with Cheddar and Ritz Cracker Topping Recipe - Recipe Image

Garnishes

A sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley or chives adds a pop of color and a mild herbal brightness that beautifully contrasts the creamy, cheesy casserole. A light dusting of paprika can also add a pleasant smoky note and enhance the look of the Ritz cracker topping.

Side Dishes

This creamy vegetable casserole pairs wonderfully with a crisp, green salad dressed simply with lemon vinaigrette for freshness. Roasted chicken or grilled pork chops are also perfect companions, providing protein to round out your meal effortlessly.

Creative Ways to Present

For a family-style dinner, scoop the casserole straight from the dish, letting guests help themselves to the crispy topping and gooey cheese layers. For a more elegant touch, try serving individual portions in small ramekins with a side of bright, tangy cranberry sauce or applesauce to balance the richness.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have leftovers (and I hope you do!), store them tightly covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The casserole tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together beautifully. Just be sure to keep the crunchy topping intact until reheating.

Freezing

This casserole freezes well, making it a great make-ahead meal option. Freeze in an airtight container for up to 2 months. For best results, freeze without the cracker topping, then add fresh crushed Ritz crackers and butter on top before baking after thawing.

Reheating

To reheat, warm your casserole in a 350°F oven for about 20 minutes or until heated through. To restore the crispiness of the topping, pop it under the broiler for a minute or two, watching carefully so it doesn’t burn. This way, every bite tastes freshly baked and delicious.

FAQs

Can I use fresh vegetables instead of frozen?

Absolutely! If using fresh vegetables, lightly steam or sauté them first to ensure they cook fully and maintain their texture in the casserole. Adjust cooking times as needed to avoid excess moisture.

Is this casserole gluten-free?

The Ritz cracker topping contains gluten, so to keep it gluten-free, swap the crackers for gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers and use gluten-free cream of mushroom soup.

Can I make this vegetarian or vegan?

You can easily make a vegetarian version by using a vegetarian cream of mushroom soup and omitting any meat sides. For vegan, substitute dairy ingredients with plant-based alternatives, use vegan cheese, and either skip the eggs or try a flaxseed egg replacement.

How can I make this casserole spicier?

Add some crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the cream sauce mixture to give the casserole a gentle kick without overpowering the other flavors.

Can I prepare this casserole ahead and bake later?

Yes, prepare up to the point of adding the Ritz cracker topping, cover tightly, and refrigerate. When ready to bake, bring it to room temperature, add the topping, and follow baking instructions.

Final Thoughts

This Creamy Vegetable Casserole with Cheddar and Ritz Cracker Topping Recipe is truly a crowd-pleaser that combines ease, rich flavor, and nostalgic comfort all in one dish. Whether you’re feeding a family or bringing a dish to a potluck, it’s guaranteed to impress. I wholeheartedly encourage you to try it—you might just find your new favorite go-to casserole for any occasion!