Name: Creamy Winter Vegetable Casserole
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 55 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 cups broccoli florets; 1 ½ cups sliced carrots; 2 cups cauliflower florets; 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup; ¾ cup sour cream; 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon onion powder; 1 bag (28–32 oz) frozen tater tots; 2 tablespoons chopped parsley (optional)

Rich, comforting, and bursting with flavor, this Creamy Winter Vegetable Casserole is the kind of dish you want to curl up with on a chilly evening. Loaded with seasonal veggies like broccoli, carrots, and cauliflower, and topped with golden, crispy tater tots, this casserole brings together everything you love about cozy winter dinners.

Perfect as a meatless main or hearty side, it’s a hit with kids and adults alike. The creamy cheese sauce wraps around the vegetables and tots like a warm blanket, making every bite feel like comfort food heaven. It’s easy to prep ahead and bake when you’re ready, which also makes it a fantastic option for potlucks or busy weeknights.

What Kind of Vegetables Should I Use?

The beauty of this casserole is how versatile it is. You can stick with the classics like broccoli, cauliflower, and carrots, or use up what you have on hand—green beans, peas, or even sweet potatoes work beautifully. Just be sure to chop your vegetables evenly for consistent baking. Frozen or fresh both work; if using frozen, no need to thaw!

Ingredients for the Creamy Winter Vegetable Casserole

Broccoli Florets
These add a pop of green and keep their texture even after baking. Rich in nutrients and fiber, they’re the perfect hearty winter vegetable.

Carrots
Sweet and colorful, carrots balance the savory notes of the creamy sauce. Slice them into rounds or thin sticks for quick cooking.

Cauliflower
Neutral in flavor, cauliflower soaks up the cheesy sauce beautifully. It also adds a soft bite to the mix.

Cream of Mushroom Soup
This forms the base of the creamy sauce, giving it that rich, comforting flavor with minimal effort.

Sour Cream
Adds tanginess and extra creaminess that takes the texture over the top.

Shredded Cheddar Cheese
Melted into the sauce and sprinkled on top, cheddar brings sharp, cheesy goodness to every layer.

Garlic Powder and Onion Powder
These simple spices bring warmth and flavor depth without overpowering the vegetables.

Frozen Tater Tots
Golden and crisp on top, these make the casserole fun and satisfying—like hashbrowns on a cozy blanket of veggies.

Chopped Parsley (optional)
A touch of fresh green to finish the dish and brighten the flavors.

How To Make the Creamy Winter Vegetable Casserole

Step 1: Preheat and Prep

Preheat your oven to 375°F. Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and set aside.

Step 2: Mix the Creamy Base

In a large bowl, combine the cream of mushroom soup, sour cream, half of the shredded cheddar cheese, garlic powder, and onion powder. Stir until well blended.

Step 3: Add the Vegetables

Add the chopped broccoli, cauliflower, and carrots to the bowl. Toss everything together to coat the veggies thoroughly in the creamy sauce.

Step 4: Assemble the Casserole

Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread it out evenly. Top with the remaining cheddar cheese, then arrange frozen tater tots in a single layer over the top.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Bake uncovered for 35-40 minutes, or until the tater tots are golden brown and the casserole is bubbling. If you’d like a crispier top, broil for an extra 2-3 minutes at the end.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Let the casserole sit for 5 minutes before serving. Sprinkle with chopped parsley if desired.

Serving and Storing This Cozy Casserole

This dish is filling enough to serve as a main course, especially with a simple side salad or a warm dinner roll. It also works great alongside roasted meats for a complete winter meal. For storing leftovers, place them in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 4 days. You can also freeze individual portions for up to 2 months—just reheat in the oven for best texture.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen vegetables?

Absolutely! Frozen vegetables work just as well as fresh ones. You don’t need to thaw them first—just mix them right into the creamy sauce.

What cheese is best for this recipe?

Sharp cheddar is a favorite for its bold flavor, but you can also use a blend of cheeses like mozzarella and Monterey Jack.

How can I make this casserole gluten-free?

Make sure your cream of mushroom soup is labeled gluten-free and double-check that the tater tots are safe too.

Can I add protein to this casserole?

Yes! Cooked, shredded chicken or crumbled sausage can easily be mixed into the filling for extra heartiness.

Can I prep this casserole in advance?

Definitely. Assemble the dish completely, cover it, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Just bake it when you’re ready—you may need a few extra minutes of cook time if baking straight from the fridge.

How do I reheat leftovers?

Warm leftovers in the oven at 350°F until heated through, or use the microwave for individual portions.

Want More Casserole Ideas?

If you love this Creamy Winter Vegetable Casserole, you might enjoy these comforting dishes too:

Chicken Crescent Roll Casserole for a creamy, flaky twist.
Easy Weeknight Tater Tot Casserole when you want the same comfort with a meaty flair.
Cheesy Baked Tortellini with Meat Sauce packed with hearty pasta and cheese.
Creamy Alfredo Lasagna Soup if you’re in the mood for spoonfuls of cozy.
Creamy Garlic Parmesan Tortellini with Sausage and Broccoli to double up on the veggie-and-cheese goodness.

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest comfort food board so it’s ready for your next cozy night in.

And when you make it, come back and let me know how it turned out! Did you go full veggie or add some protein? Swap out the cheese? I love hearing how you personalize these meals.

You can also check out my Pinterest page Life with Jam for more comforting winter recipes and creative twists on everyday favorites.