Cheesy Vegetable Casserole

**Ingredients:**

– 4-5 medium potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
– 2 cups mixed vegetables (e.g., broccoli, cauliflower, bell peppers, and carrots), chopped
– 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or a blend)
– 1 cup milk
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tomatoes, sliced
– 1/4 cup chopped green onions or chives (for garnish)

**Instructions:**

1. **Preheat the Oven:**
– Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a large baking dish with butter or non-stick spray.

2. **Prepare the Cheese Sauce:**
– In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the flour and whisk continuously for 1-2 minutes to form a roux.
– Gradually whisk in the milk and heavy cream, stirring until the mixture thickens, about 3-5 minutes.
– Stir in the shredded cheese, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Continue to stir until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is smooth.

3. **Layer the Casserole:**
– Arrange half of the sliced potatoes in the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
– Layer the chopped vegetables on top of the potatoes.
– Pour half of the cheese sauce over the vegetables.
– Add the remaining sliced potatoes on top, followed by the remaining cheese sauce.

4. **Add Tomato Slices:**
– Arrange the sliced tomatoes on top of the casserole. This will add a nice color and flavor to the dish.

5. **Bake:**
– Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 45 minutes.
– Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the potatoes are tender.

6. **Garnish and Serve:**
– Once baked, remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool slightly.
– Garnish with chopped green onions or chives before serving.

This cheesy vegetable casserole is a delicious and comforting dish that can be served as a main course or a side dish. Enjoy!