Baked Vegetable Medley with Cheese Sauce: A Comforting and Flavorful Side Dish

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
In a large bowl, toss the broccoli, cauliflower, carrots, zucchini, and red bell pepper with olive oil. Season with salt and pepper.
Spread the vegetables evenly on a baking sheet and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until they are tender and slightly browned. Stir halfway through for even cooking.
Make the Cheese Sauce:

While the vegetables are baking, prepare the cheese sauce. In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
Whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes to form a roux, stirring constantly to avoid lumps.
Gradually add the milk, continuing to whisk to ensure a smooth consistency. Cook for 3-4 minutes until the sauce thickens.
Stir in the cheddar and mozzarella cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Continue to cook and stir until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is smooth.
Combine and Bake:

Once the vegetables are done, transfer them to a baking dish. Pour the cheese sauce evenly over the top, ensuring all the vegetables are coated.
Return the dish to the oven and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese sauce is bubbly and slightly golden on top.
Serve:

Allow the dish to cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley or a sprinkle of extra cheese if desired. This baked vegetable medley with cheese sauce is the perfect side dish for any meal.
Serving and Storage Tips: