Cheesy Carrot Casserole

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A Comforting Classic

Looking for a cozy, comforting side dish that will steal the show at any gathering? This Cheesy Carrot Casserole is the perfect choice. It combines tender carrots, a rich and creamy cheese sauce, and a crispy cornflake topping that brings everything together in perfect harmony. Whether you’re hosting a holiday dinner or simply want to add a touch of indulgence to a weeknight meal, this casserole has you covered.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is ideal for:

  • Families: Kids love the cheesy goodness, and the carrots add a healthy twist.
  • Busy Cooks: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, it’s perfect for those who don’t have hours to spend in the kitchen.
  • Special Occasions: The casserole’s golden, bubbling topping makes it an impressive addition to any table.

With a balance of creamy, cheesy decadence and the natural sweetness of carrots, this dish appeals to a wide range of palates. Plus, it’s highly customizable with swaps and variations to suit your preferences.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Casserole:

  • 3 Tablespoons butter (salted)
  • 1 medium onion, chopped
  • 4 Tablespoons flour
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon pepper
  • 1 cup milk
  • ½ cup cream
  • 2 cups cheddar cheese, shredded
  • 3½ cups carrots, sliced and cooked until just tender
  • 1 Tablespoon dried parsley flakes

For the Topping:

  • 3 Tablespoons butter (salted)
  • 2 cups cornflakes

Kitchen Equipment Needed

  • Large pot or Dutch oven
  • Whisk
  • Medium bowl
  • 9×11 baking dish
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Cooking spoon or spatula

Step-by-Step Directions

Preparation:

  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F. Generously spray a 9×11 baking dish with cooking spray to prevent sticking.

Make the Sauce:

  1. Melt 3 Tablespoons of butter in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until softened, about 5 minutes.
  2. Whisk in the flour, salt, and pepper. Cook for at least 3 minutes, stirring frequently, until the mixture is bubbly and golden.
  3. Gradually add the milk and cream, whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Continue stirring until the mixture thickens and starts to boil.
  4. Stir in the shredded cheese, mixing until melted and smooth.

Assemble the Casserole:

  1. Add the cooked, drained carrots and parsley flakes to the cheese sauce. Mix until the carrots are evenly coated.
  2. Spread the mixture into the prepared baking dish, smoothing it into an even layer.

Make the Topping:

  1. In a medium bowl, melt the remaining 3 Tablespoons of butter. Add the cornflakes and stir until they are fully coated.
  2. Sprinkle the cornflake mixture evenly over the casserole.

Bake:

  1. Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 20 minutes, or until the topping is golden and crispy.

Tips and Tricks

  • Shortcut: Use pre-sliced baby carrots or frozen carrots to save time.
  • Make It Healthier: Swap heavy cream for whole milk or a non-dairy alternative.
  • Cheese Options: While cheddar is classic, you can experiment with Monterey Jack, Gruyère, or a combination of cheeses.
  • Topping Variations: Replace cornflakes with crushed Ritz crackers, breadcrumbs, or panko for a different crunch.

How to Store and Reheat

  • Storage: Allow leftovers to cool completely, then transfer them to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
  • Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes to maintain the crispy topping, or microwave individual portions for convenience.

What to Serve with Cheesy Carrot Casserole

Pair this casserole with:

  • Main Dishes: Roasted chicken, glazed ham, or grilled salmon.
  • Sides: A fresh green salad or steamed green beans to balance the richness.
  • Drinks: A crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or a sparkling apple cider complements the flavors beautifully.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this casserole ahead of time? Yes! Assemble the casserole (without the topping) up to a day in advance. Store it covered in the refrigerator. Add the topping just before baking.

Can I freeze this dish? Freezing is not recommended due to the creamy sauce and cornflake topping, which may lose their texture. However, you can freeze the carrot mixture separately and add fresh topping when ready to bake.

What can I use instead of cornflakes? Try crushed potato chips, panko breadcrumbs, or even crumbled pretzels for a fun twist on the topping.

Final Thoughts

This Cheesy Carrot Casserole is a delightful combination of flavor and texture that’s sure to become a family favorite. Its versatility and ease make it a go-to recipe for both busy weeknights and special occasions.

Share the Love

If you try this recipe, let us know how it turned out in the comments below! Don’t forget to share this recipe with your friends and family, and subscribe to our blog for more comforting dishes like this one. Happy cooking!

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