Paneer & Veggie Casserole — A Creamy Indian Twist on Mac and Cheese

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If mac and cheese met Indian comfort food, this Paneer & Veggie Casserole would be their delicious love child. It’s creamy, cheesy, and bursting with flavor but with a Desi twist! Tender paneer cubes and colorful vegetables are baked in a spiced cheese sauce that’s comforting yet bold. This dish is perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or festive get-togethers when you want to serve something familiar yet excitingly different.

Whether you’re a vegetarian looking for a hearty main or just craving something cozy, this casserole brings fusion cooking to your table in the most satisfying way.

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🧀 Ingredients

For the Casserole Base:

• 200g paneer, cut into small cubes

• 1 cup boiled mixed vegetables (carrots, beans, peas, corn)

• 1 medium onion, finely chopped

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 tbsp butter or ghee

• 1 tbsp all-purpose flour (maida)

• 1½ cups milk

• ½ cup grated cheese (mozzarella or cheddar)

• ½ tsp garam masala

• ½ tsp red chili flakes

• Salt & pepper to taste

• 1 tsp cumin seeds

• ½ tsp turmeric powder

For the Topping:

• ¼ cup breadcrumbs

• 2 tbsp grated cheese

• 1 tbsp melted butter

• Fresh coriander or parsley (optional, for garnish)

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👩‍🍳 Steps to Make Paneer & Veggie Casserole

1. Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).

2. Sauté aromatics: Heat butter in a pan, add cumin seeds, and let them splutter. Add onions and garlic; sauté till golden brown.

3. Make the roux: Sprinkle flour and cook for 30 seconds. Slowly add milk while whisking to create a smooth sauce.

4. Add spices & cheese: Mix in garam masala, turmeric, chili flakes, salt, and pepper. Stir in half the grated cheese until melted and creamy.

5. Combine everything: Add boiled veggies and paneer cubes. Mix gently so paneer doesn’t break.

6. Transfer to a baking dish.

7. Top it up: Combine breadcrumbs, butter, and remaining cheese. Sprinkle over the casserole.

8. Bake for 20–25 minutes or until golden and bubbly on top.

9. Garnish with coriander or parsley and serve hot!

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💡 Tips & Variations

• For a vegan version, use tofu instead of paneer and coconut milk with vegan cheese.

• Add a spoon of tandoori masala for a smoky flavor.

• For extra richness, mix a spoon of cream into the sauce before baking.

• Leftovers can be reheated in the oven or microwave they taste even better the next day!

• Add boiled pasta to make it a Desi Mac & Cheese Bake.

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