Carrot, Zucchini & Patisson Casserole – Baby, Toddler & Family-Friendly Veggie Bake

Ingredients (Serves 4–6)

• 2 medium carrots, peeled and diced
• 1 medium zucchini, diced
• 1 medium patisson squash (about 400–500g), peeled, seeded, and diced
• 1 small onion, finely chopped (optional, omit for babies)
• 1–2 tbsp olive oil or unsalted butter
• 2 eggs (or 2 tbsp plain yogurt for babies under 12 months)
• 1/2 cup mild cheese, grated (mozzarella or ricotta work well)
• 1/4 cup breadcrumbs (softened in milk or omitted for babies)
• 1/4 tsp mild herbs (parsley or thyme)
• Pinch of salt (omit for babies under 1 year)

How to Make Carrot, Zucchini & Patisson Casserole

1. Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Lightly grease a small casserole dish with olive oil or butter.

2. Prepare the Vegetables

Peel and dice the carrots, zucchini, and patisson squash into small, even cubes. Uniform pieces help everything cook evenly and create a pleasant texture for little eaters.

3. Cook the Vegetables

For Babies (6–12 months):
Steam or boil the vegetables for 10–15 minutes, until very soft and easily mashable.

For Toddlers & Adults:
Sauté the vegetables with onion in olive oil or butter for 5–7 minutes, until tender but still soft.

4. Mix the Casserole

In a bowl, beat the eggs (or use yogurt for younger babies). Stir in cheese, breadcrumbs, herbs, and then gently fold in the cooked vegetables.

5. Bake

Transfer the mixture to the prepared dish and bake for 20–25 minutes, until lightly golden and set.

6. Cool & Serve

Allow the casserole to cool slightly before serving.

• Babies: Mash or puree for a smooth texture
• Toddlers: Serve soft, bite-sized pieces
• Adults: Serve warm as a main or side dish

Baby-Friendly Variation (6–12 months)

For a gentle first-food version:

• Steam vegetables until very soft
• Mash or puree with breast milk, formula, or unsalted stock
• Skip eggs, cheese, breadcrumbs, and salt

This creates a creamy, easy-to-digest vegetable mash perfect for early feeding stages.

Toddler-Friendly Variation (1–3 years)

• Keep vegetables soft and easy to chew
• Add mild cheese for extra flavor and calories
• Serve as a main dish or alongside grains

Family-Friendly Version

For a heartier meal:

• Top with extra cheese or breadcrumbs for a golden crust
• Add cooked shredded chicken, beans, or lentils for protein
• Serve with rice, quinoa, or salad

What This Casserole Pairs Well With

This carrot, zucchini & patisson casserole is mild, comforting, and incredibly easy to combine with other dishes, making it perfect for both simple lunches and fuller family dinners.

Cozy Soup & Starter Ideas

For a warming, balanced meal, this casserole pairs beautifully with light, vegetable-based soups:

• Beetroot soup (mild and slightly sweet)
• Mushroom soup or creamy mushroom soup
• Light vegetable soup
• Pumpkin or squash soup
• Clear chicken broth with vegetables

These soups complement the soft texture and gentle flavors of the casserole without overwhelming it.

Why Patisson Squash is Wonderful for Kids

Patisson squash is a gentle, nutrient-rich summer vegetable with a mild, slightly nutty taste. Its soft flesh cooks quickly and is easy to digest, making it especially suitable for babies and toddlers.

Naturally rich in fiber, Vitamin A, and Vitamin C, it supports digestion, vision, and immune health — while its mild flavor makes it easy for children to accept.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Can babies eat patisson squash?
Yes. Patisson squash is soft, mild, and easy to digest. Simply steam or boil until very tender and mash or puree.

Q: Can I freeze this casserole?
Absolutely. Cool completely, store in airtight containers, and freeze for up to 2 months. Reheat thoroughly before serving.

Q: Can I substitute another squash?
Yes. Zucchini, summer squash, or even butternut squash work well. Adjust cooking time as needed.

Q: Is this recipe safe for toddlers?
Yes. Ensure vegetables are soft and cut into small pieces to reduce choking risk.

Q: Can I make this recipe vegan?
Yes. Replace eggs with plant-based yogurt and use vegan cheese, or omit cheese entirely.

Q: How long does it keep in the fridge?
Stored in an airtight container, it keeps well for up to 3 days.

Q: Can I add protein?
Definitely. Shredded chicken, beans, or lentils are excellent additions for older children and adults.