Easy Four-Ingredient Spring Recipe
This simple 4-Ingredient Spring Dish is creamy, cheesy, and full of vegetables. It comes together fast and bakes into a warm, comforting meal. It is as comforting as a favorite weeknight casserole.
Why make this recipe
This recipe uses only pantry and freezer items, so it saves time and money. It is great when you want a quick side or a simple main that everyone will eat. If you enjoy easy crowd-pleasers, this fits right in with other easy crowd recipes.
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Ingredients
- 1 can cream of mushroom soup (about 10–10.5 oz)
- 1 cup sour cream
- 2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar works well)
- 1 bag frozen mixed vegetables (about 12–16 oz)
These four simple items join others in a family favorite I make dozens of times each year.
Directions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cream of mushroom soup and sour cream.
- Stir in the shredded cheese and frozen mixed vegetables until well combined.
- Pour the mixture into a greased baking dish and spread it evenly.
- Bake for 25–30 minutes or until the top is bubbling and golden.
- Serve warm.
For a different baked feel, you can compare this to a traditional potato bake for inspiration.
Serving
Serve this dish hot as a side with grilled meat, roasted chicken, or with crusty bread. It also makes a simple main when paired with a green salad.
Storage
- Cool the dish to room temperature before storing.
- Cover and refrigerate for up to 3–4 days.
- To reheat, warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15–20 minutes or until heated through, or microwave individual portions.
Tips
- Thaw the vegetables slightly if the frozen pieces clump together, so they mix evenly.
- Use a mix of cheeses (cheddar + monterey jack) for a richer flavor.
- For a creamier result, mix the sour cream and soup well until smooth before adding other ingredients.
- For a more indulgent version, try the twist that became a boyfriend-requested favorite.
Variations
- Add cooked shredded chicken or turkey to make it a protein-rich main.
- Stir in a cup of cooked rice or pasta for extra bulk.
- Top with breadcrumbs mixed with a little melted butter for a crunchy crust.
- Swap cream of mushroom for cream of chicken for a different flavor.
FAQs
Q: Can I use fresh vegetables instead of frozen?
A: Yes. Use about the same volume of chopped fresh vegetables. Sauté them briefly to soften before mixing if they are very firm.
Q: Can I make this ahead and bake later?
A: Yes. Assemble in a baking dish, cover, and refrigerate up to 24 hours. Bake when ready, adding a few extra minutes if cold.
Q: Is this dish freezer-safe?
A: You can freeze baked leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating.
Q: Can I reduce the cheese?
A: Yes, you can use 1 to 1.5 cups of cheese for fewer calories, but the top will be less golden.
Q: What can I serve with this?
A: It pairs well with simple proteins and salads for a full meal.