Cheesy Vegetable Pie Recipe

 Introducing the ultimate comfort food that blends wholesome veggies with indulgent cheesy goodness—Cheesy Vegetable Pie. This hearty dish is perfect for cozy family dinners, potlucks, or any time you need a crowd-pleaser. Packed with colorful vegetables, flavorful seasoning, and an irresistibly rich cheesy layer on top, this pie is a celebration of both flavor and texture. Whether you're a vegetable-lover or just looking for a new way to serve up a nutritious meal, this recipe will quickly win a spot in your heart…and your kitchen rotation!

Here’s how you can make this delightful dish, step by step:

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Ingredients

For the Pie Filling:

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 cup broccoli florets
• 1 cup diced carrots
• 1 cup corn kernels (fresh, frozen, or canned)
• 1 cup diced bell peppers (any color or a mix!)
• 1 cup zucchini, diced
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• Salt and pepper to taste

For the Cheese Sauce:

• 2 tablespoons butter
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 1 ½ cups milk (whole milk works best)
• 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
• ¼ teaspoon nutmeg (optional, for extra flavor)
• Salt and pepper to taste

For the Pie Crust:

• 1 pre-made store-bought pie crust (or a homemade one if you prefer!)

Optional Toppings:

• A sprinkle of paprika or parsley for garnish

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Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Pie Crust

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Place the pre-made pie crust into a greased pie pan. Trim or crimp the edges as desired. Prick the bottom lightly with a fork to prevent bubbling.
3. Pre-bake the crust for about 8–10 minutes, then set it aside to cool.

Step 2: Cook the Vegetables

1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
2. Add diced onion and garlic, cooking until fragrant and slightly softened.
3. Stir in broccoli, carrots, bell peppers, and zucchini. Cook for about 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are tender but still vibrant.
4. Mix in the thyme and basil, and season with salt and pepper. Remove from heat.

Step 3: Make the Cheese Sauce

1. Meanwhile, in a small saucepan, melt butter over medium heat.
2. Add the flour and whisk constantly, creating a smooth roux. Cook for 1–2 minutes to get rid of the raw flour taste.
3. Gradually pour in the milk while whisking, ensuring the mixture stays lump-free.
4. Once the sauce starts to thicken, add the shredded cheddar cheese. Stir until melted and creamy.

Step 4: Assemble the Pie

1. Spoon the cooked vegetable mixture evenly into the pre-baked pie crust.
2. Pour the cheese sauce over the vegetables, allowing it to seep between the layers.
3. If desired, sprinkle a little more shredded cheese on top for an extra cheesy topping.

Step 5: Bake the Pie

1. Bake the assembled pie in the preheated oven for 20–25 minutes, or until the top is bubbly and golden.
2. Remove from the oven and allow it to cool slightly before slicing.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy!

Slice the pie into generous wedges and serve it warm. It pairs beautifully with a crisp side salad or a slice of crusty garlic bread.

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Tips and Customizations

• Custom Veggies: Swap in your favorite vegetables! Mushrooms, spinach, or peas can all be delicious additions to this pie.
• Spice It Up: Add a pinch of chili flakes to the cheese sauce for a bit of heat.
• Make It Fancy: Topped with Parmesan breadcrumbs, this pie gets an elegant crispy layer that impresses at dinner parties.
• Gluten-Free Option: Use a gluten-free pie crust and substitute cornstarch for flour in the cheese sauce.
• Meal Prep-Friendly: Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven or microwave.

This Cheesy Vegetable Pie will quickly become a household favorite, bringing together warm, gooey cheese and vibrant, veggie-packed goodness in every bite. Give it a try tonight—your family (and your taste buds) will thank you!