“It's not a full meal without a side dish or two.” This age - old adage holds true in the world of gastronomy. Among the plethora of side dishes, the dump and bake vegetable casserole stands out as a simple yet incredibly delicious option. The name “million dollar” for this recipe is no exaggeration, as it gets its allure from the combination of shredded cheese, mayo, and buttery crackers.

Let's start with the ingredients. First and foremost, you'll need a medley of vegetables. You can choose from broccoli, cauliflower, carrots, and green beans. The beauty of this casserole lies in its versatility; you can use whatever vegetables you have on hand or prefer. Fresh vegetables are ideal as they bring in a crunch and natural flavor. Still, frozen vegetables work just as well in a pinch. For the star ingredients, shredded cheese is a must - have. Cheddar cheese, with its sharp and creamy taste, is a classic choice, but you can also experiment with mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or a blend of different cheeses. The cheese not only adds a rich and savory flavor but also a lovely melted texture to the casserole.

Mayonnaise plays a crucial role in binding the ingredients together and adding a smooth, creamy element. It also helps to keep the vegetables moist during the baking process. You don't need a large amount, just enough to coat the vegetables and give them a luscious mouthfeel. As for the buttery crackers, crushed Ritz crackers are a popular option. They form a crispy, golden - brown crust on top of the casserole when baked. The buttery flavor of the crackers contrasts beautifully with the soft, cheesy vegetables below.

Now, let's move on to the preparation. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Begin by preparing your vegetables. If using fresh vegetables, wash and cut them into bite - sized pieces. If using frozen vegetables, thaw them according to the package instructions. Place the vegetables in a large mixing bowl. Next, add the shredded cheese to the vegetables. Stir gently to ensure that the cheese is evenly distributed among the vegetables. This will ensure that every bite is filled with cheesy goodness.

Then, add the mayonnaise to the mixture. You can start with about a half - cup and adjust according to your preference. The goal is to have the vegetables and cheese well - coated but not overly saturated. Mix everything together until you have a homogeneous mixture. Transfer this mixture to a greased baking dish. Make sure to spread it out evenly so that it bakes uniformly.

Take the crushed buttery crackers and sprinkle them evenly over the top of the vegetable and cheese mixture. You can also add a little extra butter on top of the crackers for an even more decadent flavor. Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 30 - 35 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the crackers on top are golden brown. You can check for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center of the casserole. If it comes out clean, the casserole is ready.

This dump and bake vegetable casserole is not only easy to make but also extremely satisfying. It can be served alongside a variety of main courses. Pair it with grilled chicken for a healthy and balanced meal. The casserole's creamy and cheesy nature complements the lean and savory chicken perfectly. If you're in the mood for something heartier, serve it with a juicy steak. The vegetables in the casserole provide a refreshing contrast to the rich, meaty steak. It also goes well with fish, adding a pop of color and flavor to your plate.

Moreover, this casserole is great for meal prepping. You can make a large batch on the weekend and portion it out for the week. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 - 4 days or frozen for longer - term storage. When you're ready to eat, simply reheat it in the oven or microwave. In conclusion, the dump and bake vegetable casserole is a true gem in the world of side dishes. With its “million dollar” combination of shredded cheese, mayo, and buttery crackers, it's a recipe that's sure to become a staple in your kitchen.