If you’re looking for a creamy, cheesy side dish that’s both comforting and loaded with flavor, this creamy carrot casserole is exactly what you need. Combining tender crinkle-cut carrots with a rich cheddar cheese sauce and a crunchy cornflake topping, this casserole is a perfect accompaniment to any meal, from holiday feasts to weeknight dinners. Its creamy base and cheesy goodness make it irresistible, while the cornflake topping adds that satisfying crunch in every bite.

Photo bypinterest

The recipe starts with crinkle-cut carrots that are cooked and drained, ensuring they’re tender but not mushy. These carrots are mixed with a creamy sauce made from a blend of half-and-half and heavy whipping cream, creating a rich base that pairs perfectly with the sharp cheddar cheese. The cheddar melts into the sauce, adding a savory element that complements the natural sweetness of the carrots. Green onions and parsley flakes are added for a pop of color and a hint of freshness, while salt and pepper season the dish to perfection.

A classic casserole isn’t complete without a crunchy topping, and this recipe doesn’t disappoint. Crushed cornflakes mixed with melted butter create the ultimate crispy topping that contrasts beautifully with the creamy filling. Once baked, the top becomes golden brown, and every forkful delivers that satisfying mix of creamy carrots and crispy cornflakes. This casserole is so delicious, it might just steal the spotlight from the main dish!

Carrot casseroles have long been a staple in American cooking, combining the simplicity of vegetables with indulgent ingredients like cream and cheese. This dish not only adds a hearty side to your dinner table but also provides a good source of vitamins from the carrots. It’s a versatile casserole that can be customized with additional ingredients or tweaked to suit your flavor preferences. Whether served alongside roasted meats or as part of a larger spread, this creamy carrot casserole is bound to become a family favorite.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving - 1 Cup):  

• • - Calories: 380 kcal  
  • - Fat: 28g  
  • - Carbohydrates: 21g  
  • - Protein: 10g  
  • - Fiber: 4g  

Photo byJonathan PielmayeronUnsplash

Storage Tips:  

- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.  

- To reheat, bake in the oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes or microwave individual portions for 1-2 minutes.  

- This casserole can be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Fun Fact:

Did you know carrots weren’t always orange? Originally, carrots came in shades of purple, white, and yellow. The orange variety we know today was cultivated by Dutch farmers in the 17th century and has since become the most popular type worldwide. Not only are carrots a great source of beta-carotene (which the body converts into vitamin A), but they also add natural sweetness to savory dishes like this casserole.

The Science Behind the Crunchy Topping:  

Cornflakes aren’t just for breakfast—they make the perfect crunchy topping for casseroles like this one! By crushing the cornflakes and mixing them with melted butter, you create a topping that becomes golden and crispy when baked. The key to achieving the best texture is to spread the topping evenly over the casserole so that every bite has a mix of creamy and crunchy. This contrast in textures is what makes casseroles so satisfying. Plus, the butter adds a richness that complements the cheese sauce, while the cornflakes provide a slight sweetness that enhances the natural flavor of the carrots.

Serving Suggestions:  

- Serve alongside roasted chicken or turkey for a complete meal.  

- Pair with a green salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced dinner.  

- Garnish with additional parsley or fresh herbs for a burst of color and flavor.  

- Add a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a bit of heat, or drizzle with a balsamic glaze for an extra layer of flavor.

Photo bypinterest

Creamy Carrot Casserole Recipe

Ingredients:  

• - 2 lb crinkle-cut carrots, cooked and drained  
• - 4 green onions, sliced thin  
• - 1 tbsp parsley flakes  
• - 3 cups crushed cornflakes (for topping)  
• - 1/2 cup all-purpose flour  
• - 1/2 tsp pepper  
• - 1 tsp salt  
• - 8 tbsp unsalted butter, divided (4 tbsp for sauce, 4 tbsp for topping)  
• - 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded  
• - 1 1/2 cups half-and-half cream  
• - 1/2 cup heavy whipping cream  

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F. Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish and set aside.  

2. In a large saucepan, melt 4 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour, salt, and pepper, cooking for 1-2 minutes until the mixture is smooth and bubbly.  

3. Slowly whisk in the half-and-half and heavy whipping cream, continuing to stir until the mixture thickens, about 3-4 minutes.  

4. Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until fully melted and the sauce is smooth. Remove from heat.  

5. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked and drained carrots, green onions, and parsley flakes. Pour the cheese sauce over the carrot mixture and toss to coat evenly.  

6. Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly.  

7. In a small bowl, mix the crushed cornflakes with the remaining 4 tablespoons of melted butter. Sprinkle the cornflake mixture evenly over the top of the casserole.  

8. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the casserole is bubbling around the edges.  

9. Let the casserole cool slightly before serving.

This creamy carrot casserole is the ultimate comfort food, combining tender carrots, a rich cheese sauce, and a crunchy topping. Whether you're serving it for a special occasion or just a weeknight meal, it's sure to be a hit!