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Fall Root Vegetable Casserole with Crispy Crust

This casserole features a medley of roasted seasonal root vegetables layered with savory herbs and topped with a crunchy breadcrumb and cheese crust. The dish is baked until bubbling and golden, resulting in a hearty, textured centerpiece that combines tender vegetables with a crisp topping.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 45 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 5 minutes
Servings: 6
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 250

Ingredients
  

  • 3 cups mixed root vegetables (such as carrots, parsnips, sweet potatoes) peeled and chopped into bite-sized pieces
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil for roasting vegetables
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme ground
  • Salt and pepper to taste seasoning for vegetables
  • 1 cup vegetable broth for steaming and moisture
  • 1/2 cup fresh breadcrumbs panko preferred
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese for topping
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter melted and mixed with breadcrumbs and cheese

Equipment

  • Large mixing bowl
  • Baking dish
  • Chef's knife
  • Cutting board
  • Grater
  • Medium saucepan
  • Mixing spoon

Method
 

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Toss the chopped root vegetables with olive oil, dried thyme, salt, and pepper in a large mixing bowl until evenly coated.
  2. Spread the seasoned vegetables in an even layer on a baking sheet. Roast for about 25-30 minutes, or until tender and lightly caramelized, stirring once halfway through to promote even cooking.
  3. While the vegetables roast, prepare the crunchy topping by mixing breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan, and melted butter in a small bowl until crumbly and evenly coated.
  4. Transfer the roasted vegetables to a greased baking dish, spreading them out evenly. Pour the vegetable broth over the vegetables to add moisture and help steam a bit while baking.
  5. Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture evenly over the top of the vegetables, pressing down gently to ensure good contact and adhesion.
  6. Bake the assembled casserole in the preheated oven for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and crispy, and the casserole is bubbling around the edges.
  7. Remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. The aroma of roasted vegetables and toasted breadcrumbs fills the air.
  8. Serve the casserole warm, spooned onto plates, showcasing the tender vegetables topped with a crispy, cheesy crust.