Ingredients
Before we get started, let’s gather everything you’ll need. Here’s what makes this dish shine:
Vegetables:
- Carrots: 2 cups, thinly sliced.
- Peas: 2 cups, fresh or frozen.
Creamy Base:
- Butter: 3 tablespoons.
- All-purpose flour: 3 tablespoons.
- Milk: 1 ½ cups, whole milk works best for a rich texture.
- Cheddar cheese: 1 cup, shredded (or your favorite melty cheese).
- Sour cream: ½ cup for that tangy touch.
- Salt and pepper: To taste.
- Garlic powder: ½ teaspoon for extra flavor.
Topping:
- Breadcrumbs: 1 cup.
- Parmesan cheese: ¼ cup, grated.
- Butter: 2 tablespoons, melted.
Optional add-ins:
- Diced onions or shallots for a more savory kick.
- Fresh herbs like parsley or thyme for garnish.
How to Make Carrot and Pea Casserole
Preparing the Vegetables
Start by prepping your carrots and peas. If you’re using fresh peas, give them a quick rinse. For frozen peas, let them thaw slightly. Slice your carrots thinly so they cook evenly in the casserole.
To give the veggies a head start, blanch the carrots in boiling water for 3–4 minutes, then add the peas for an additional minute. Drain and set them aside. This step ensures they’ll stay tender-crisp and vibrant in the final dish.
Creating the Creamy Base
Now, it’s time to whip up the luscious, creamy sauce. Melt the butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Once it’s bubbling, whisk in the flour to form a roux. Cook for 1–2 minutes to eliminate the raw flour taste.
Gradually add the milk, whisking continuously to avoid lumps. Cook the mixture until it thickens into a smooth sauce. Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese, sour cream, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Once the cheese melts and everything is combined, your creamy base is ready to shine.
Assembling the Casserole
Grab a 9×13-inch baking dish and grease it lightly. Spread the blanched carrots and peas evenly across the bottom. Pour the creamy sauce over the veggies, ensuring everything is well coated.
For the crunchy topping, mix the breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, and melted butter in a small bowl. Sprinkle the mixture generously over the casserole. This golden crust is what dreams are made of!
Baking the Casserole
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the casserole in the oven and bake for 25–30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the filling is bubbling around the edges.
Pro tip: If you want an extra-crispy topping, switch to the broiler setting for the last 2–3 minutes of baking. Just keep a close eye on it to prevent burning!
Once it’s done, let the casserole rest for 5–10 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld and makes it easier to scoop out perfect portions.
Conclusion: A Recipe Worth Trying
Carrot and pea casserole isn’t just another side dish—it’s a celebration of simple ingredients coming together in perfect harmony. With its creamy base, vibrant vegetables, and irresistible crunchy topping, it’s sure to become a family favorite.
So, why not give it a try? Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or just treating yourself to something special, this casserole is bound to bring comfort and joy to your table. Happy cooking!
