Are you a comfort food lover looking for hearty and satisfying meals to warm your belly and your heart? Look no further! Casseroles are the perfect solution, offering a delicious and easy way to feed yourself or your family without breaking a sweat. In this article, we’ll dive into 20 classic casserole recipes that are sure to become staples in your kitchen.
From comforting classics like Cheesy Chicken and Rice Casserole and Green Bean Casserole with Crispy Onions, to savory takes on traditional dishes like Tuna Noodle Casserole with Creamy Mushroom Sauce and Classic Beef and Potato Casserole, we’ve got you covered. Whether you’re in the mood for something creamy and cheesy or packed with vegetables and spices, these casseroles are sure to hit the spot.
In this article, we’ll explore the following 20 hearty casserole recipes:
… (and the list goes on)
Cheesy Chicken and Rice Casserole
A comforting and flavorful casserole that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups uncooked white rice
– 3 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 1 can (10.5 oz) condensed cream of chicken soup
– 1 cup milk
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup butter, melted
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. Cook rice according to package instructions.
3. In a large skillet, sauté chicken in melted butter until cooked through.
4. Combine cooked chicken, cream of chicken soup, milk, and paprika in a separate bowl.
5. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter.
6. Layer cooked rice, chicken mixture, and shredded cheese in the prepared baking dish.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Green Bean Casserole with Crispy Onions
Classic Green Bean Casserole with Crispy Onions Recipe
This comforting casserole is a staple of American holidays and gatherings. With the addition of crispy onions, this recipe elevates the classic to new heights.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh green beans, trimmed
– 1 medium onion, sliced into rings
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup milk
– 1/2 cup cream of mushroom soup
– 1 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 cup butter
– 1 1/2 cups French-fried onions
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Cook green beans in boiling water until tender, about 5 minutes. Drain and set aside.
3. In a separate pan, sauté garlic and onion rings over medium heat until golden brown, about 5-7 minutes. Set aside with green beans.
4. In a large mixing bowl, combine milk, cream of mushroom soup, black pepper, and butter. Stir until smooth.
5. Add cooked green beans and crispy onions to the mixture. Stir until well coated.
6. Pour the mixture into a 9×13-inch baking dish and top with remaining French-fried onions.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Tuna Noodle Casserole with Creamy Mushroom Sauce
A classic comfort food dish that combines the flavors of tuna, noodles, and mushrooms in a creamy sauce, perfect for a cozy evening meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 (12 oz) can of tuna in water, drained and flaked
– 8 oz egg noodles
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook egg noodles according to package instructions, drain, and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, sauté mushrooms in butter until tender. Add heavy cream and stir until combined. Bring to a simmer and cook for 2 minutes. Stir in cheddar cheese until melted. Season with thyme, salt, and pepper.
4. In a separate mixing bowl, combine flaked tuna and cooked noodles. Pour the mushroom sauce over the top and mix well.
5. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish and bake for 20-25 minutes or until hot and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Classic Beef and Potato Casserole
A hearty, comforting casserole that combines tender beef, creamy potatoes, and savory vegetables. This classic recipe is a crowd-pleaser for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 2 large onions, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups cooked potatoes, diced
– 1 cup frozen peas and carrots
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup milk
– 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. Brown the ground beef in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
3. Add chopped onions, minced garlic, and cooked potatoes. Cook until the mixture is heated through.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together milk, flour, and salt and pepper to taste.
5. Combine the meat mixture with the milk mixture, then stir in frozen peas and carrots.
6. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish.
7. Top with shredded cheddar cheese.
8. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until hot and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Broccoli Cheese Casserole with Ritz Cracker Topping
This classic comfort food recipe combines the goodness of broccoli and cheddar cheese with a crunchy Ritz cracker topping. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 3 cups broccoli florets
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1/4 cup butter, melted
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 sleeve Ritz crackers (about 30-40 crackers)
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Steam broccoli until tender; set aside.
3. In a large mixing bowl, combine cheddar cheese, milk, melted butter, paprika, salt, and pepper.
4. Add steamed broccoli to the cheese mixture and stir until well combined.
5. Pour mixture into a 9×13-inch baking dish.
6. Top with Ritz crackers, breaking them into pieces if needed.
7. Sprinkle Parmesan cheese over the crackers.
8. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Traditional Shepherd’s Pie Casserole
A classic comfort food dish that combines tender ground beef, sautéed vegetables, and mashed potatoes in a hearty casserole. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 cup frozen peas and carrots
– 1 cup beef broth
– 2 tablespoons tomato paste
– 2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 2 cups mashed potatoes
– 1/4 cup milk or heavy cream
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. Brown the ground beef in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
3. Add onion, garlic, peas and carrots, beef broth, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, and thyme. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes.
4. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish.
5. Spread mashed potatoes over the top of the meat mixture.
6. Dot with milk or heavy cream.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the potatoes are golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Homemade Mac and Cheese Casserole
Get ready to satisfy your comfort food cravings with this classic macaroni and cheese casserole, made from scratch with a creamy bechamel sauce and a crunchy breadcrumb topping.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz macaroni
– 2 cups milk
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup grated mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 cup breadcrumbs
– Optional: chopped ham or bacon for added flavor
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a medium saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour, salt, and pepper. Slowly pour in milk, whisking constantly. Bring mixture to a simmer; cook 5 minutes or until thickened.
4. Remove from heat; stir in cheddar and mozzarella cheese until melted. Add cooked macaroni and mix well.
5. Transfer macaroni mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish. Top with breadcrumbs.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Cornbread-Topped Tamale Casserole
This recipe combines the comforting flavors of tamales with the warmth of cornbread, creating a unique and delicious casserole perfect for family gatherings or potlucks.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of tamale mix (yellow cornmeal)
– 2 cups of water
– 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil
– 1 can of black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup of chopped fresh cilantro
– 1 cup of cornbread mix
– 1 cup of milk
– 1 large egg
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook the tamale mix according to package instructions, using 2 cups of water and 1 tablespoon of oil. Set aside.
3. In a separate bowl, combine the black beans, cheddar cheese, and cilantro.
4. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with vegetable oil.
5. Spread the cooked tamales evenly in the prepared dish. Top with the bean mixture.
6. Mix the cornbread mix, milk, and egg in a separate bowl. Pour over the tamale layer.
7. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until the cornbread is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Spinach and Artichoke Casserole
This creamy casserole combines the flavors of spinach, artichokes, and cheese for a deliciously comforting side dish or main course. Perfect for gatherings and parties, this recipe is easy to make and always a crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients:
– 1 (14 oz) can artichoke hearts, drained and chopped
– 2 cups fresh spinach leaves, chopped
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/2 teaspoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 6-8 crackers (e.g., Ritz or saltines), crushed
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a large skillet, sauté artichoke hearts and spinach in butter until tender.
3. In a separate bowl, mix cheddar cheese, mayonnaise, parsley, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
4. Add the cooked artichoke-spinach mixture to the cheese mixture; stir well.
5. Pour the casserole mixture into a 9×13-inch baking dish.
6. Top with crushed crackers and bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Chicken Tetrazzini Casserole
A classic comfort food recipe, this Chicken Tetrazzini Casserole is a creamy, cheesy, and flavorful dish that’s perfect for family dinners or potlucks.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup frozen peas and carrots
– 1 cup cooked pasta (such as penne or fusilli)
– 2 tablespoons butter, melted
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a large skillet, sauté chicken, onion, and garlic until the chicken is cooked through.
3. Stir in heavy cream, thyme, salt, and pepper.
4. In a separate pot, combine pasta, peas and carrots, and melted butter. Toss to combine.
5. In a 9×13-inch baking dish, arrange half of the pasta mixture, followed by the chicken mixture, then top with the remaining pasta mixture.
6. Sprinkle cheddar and Parmesan cheese on top.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the casserole is hot and the cheese is melted.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Eggplant Parmesan Casserole
This hearty casserole combines tender eggplant slices with rich tomato sauce, creamy melted mozzarella cheese, and crunchy breadcrumbs for a satisfying and flavorful dinner. With its easy preparation and short cooking time, it’s perfect for a weeknight meal or weekend gathering.
Ingredients:
– 2 medium eggplants, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– 2 cups tomato sauce
– 1 cup grated mozzarella cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Cook the eggplant slices until tender, about 3-4 minutes per side.
3. In a separate saucepan, combine tomato sauce and mozzarella cheese. Heat over low heat until melted and smooth.
4. In a 9×13-inch baking dish, create a layer of eggplant slices. Top with tomato sauce mixture, then sprinkle with Parmesan cheese. Repeat for two more layers.
5. Top the final layer with breadcrumbs and bake for 30-35 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Sweet Potato and Marshmallow Casserole
A classic Southern side dish, this sweet potato casserole is a staple at many holiday gatherings. With the added crunch of marshmallows on top, it’s sure to become a new family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 2 large sweet potatoes, cooked and mashed
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– 1 cup mini marshmallows
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine mashed sweet potatoes, sugar, flour, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
3. Stir in heavy cream and melted butter until smooth.
4. Pour mixture into a 9×13-inch baking dish.
5. Top with mini marshmallows.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until the marshmallows are golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Loaded Baked Potato Casserole
Loaded Baked Potato Casserole: A Hearty Twist on a Classic Comfort Food
This recipe takes the humble baked potato to new heights by loading it with savory toppings and baking it in a casserole dish. The result is a satisfying, filling side dish that’s perfect for family gatherings or potlucks.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 large baking potatoes
– 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup sour cream
– 1/4 cup diced green onions (scallions)
– 1/4 cup crumbled cooked bacon
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Scrub the potatoes clean and dry them with a paper towel.
3. Pierce each potato several times with a fork and rub with olive oil.
4. Bake the potatoes directly on the middle rack of the oven for 45-60 minutes, or until tender when pierced with a fork.
5. While the potatoes are baking, mix the sour cream, shredded cheese, diced green onions, and crumbled bacon in a bowl.
6. Remove the potatoes from the oven and let them cool for 10-15 minutes.
7. Slice each potato in half lengthwise and scoop out most of the flesh to make room for the toppings.
8. Divide the topping mixture among the potatoes, spooning it into the hollowed-out centers.
9. Return the potatoes to the oven and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Zucchini and Tomato Casserole
This casserole is a perfect representation of summer’s sweetness, combining the flavors of fresh zucchini and tomatoes with a hint of cheese and herbs. It’s an ideal side dish or light meal for warm weather gatherings.
Ingredients:
– 2 medium zucchinis, sliced
– 2 large tomatoes, diced
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, sauté zucchini, tomatoes, onion, and garlic in olive oil until tender.
3. In a separate bowl, mix cheese and breadcrumbs.
4. Add the cooked vegetable mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish. Top with the cheese-breadcrumb mixture.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
6. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Classic Tater Tot Hotdish
A comforting, crowd-pleasing casserole that’s perfect for family gatherings or casual get-togethers.
Ingredients:
– 1 (32 oz) bag of tater tots
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 cup frozen peas and carrots
– 1 cup milk
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup cream of mushroom soup
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. Brown the ground beef in a large skillet over medium-high heat, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
3. Add the diced onion and minced garlic; cook until the onion is translucent.
4. Stir in the frozen peas and carrots, milk, shredded cheddar cheese, and cream of mushroom soup. Bring to a simmer.
5. Arrange the tater tots in a 9×13 inch baking dish. Pour the beef mixture over the tater tots.
6. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until the tater tots are golden brown and the casserole is hot and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Chicken Enchilada Casserole
A flavorful and easy-to-make twist on traditional enchiladas, this casserole combines the comfort of chicken, cheese, and tortillas with a rich tomato-based sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cooked and shredded
– 1 can (10 oz) of enchilada sauce
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Monterey Jack cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped onion, bell peppers, or jalapeños for added flavor
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked chicken, enchilada sauce, and shredded cheese. Mix well.
3. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with olive oil.
4. Arrange 4-5 tortillas in the bottom of the dish, overlapping them slightly.
5. Spoon half of the chicken mixture over the tortillas.
6. Repeat steps 4-5, ending with a layer of tortillas on top.
7. Sprinkle remaining cheese and any desired additional flavorings (such as chopped onion or bell peppers).
8. Cover casserole with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes.
9. Remove foil and continue baking for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
French Toast Casserole with Cinnamon Streusel
Start your day off right with this French Toast Casserole with Cinnamon Streusel, a delicious twist on the classic breakfast treat. This easy-to-make casserole is perfect for brunch gatherings or a quick morning meal.
Ingredients:
– 12 slices of bread (white or whole wheat)
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 4 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– Cinnamon streusel topping (see below)
Cinnamon Streusel:
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, heavy cream, sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
3. Arrange bread slices in a single layer in a 9×13-inch baking dish.
4. Pour the egg mixture evenly over the bread.
5. Top with Cinnamon Streusel (see below).
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until golden brown.
Cinnamon Streusel Topping:
1. In a small bowl, mix flour and sugar.
2. Add butter and use a pastry blender or fingers to work into crumbs.
3. Stir in cinnamon.
4. Sprinkle over French toast casserole before baking.
Lasagna Casserole with Ground Beef
This classic casserole combines layers of ground beef, pasta, and cheese to create a satisfying and comforting meal. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup lasagna noodles
– 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. Cook lasagna noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, cook ground beef and onion until browned, breaking up meat with spoon as it cooks.
4. Add garlic, crushed tomatoes, and oregano to the skillet. Stir to combine.
5. In a 9×13-inch baking dish, create layers of cooked lasagna noodles, meat sauce, and cheese (Parmesan and mozzarella). Repeat two more times, finishing with a layer of cheese on top.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until hot and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Breakfast Sausage and Egg Casserole
A classic breakfast casserole that’s perfect for weekend mornings or special occasions, this Breakfast Sausage and Egg Casserole is a crowd-pleaser. Made with sweet sausage, eggs, and creamy cheese, it’s an easy and satisfying meal to serve to your family and friends.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb sweet sausage, casings removed
– 6 large eggs
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1/2 cup diced bell pepper
– 1 small onion, diced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tablespoon butter
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. Cook sausage in a large skillet over medium-high heat, breaking up with spoon, until browned, about 5 minutes.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, salt, and pepper.
4. Add diced bell pepper and onion to the egg mixture and stir to combine.
5. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter.
6. Arrange cooked sausage in the bottom of the dish, followed by the egg mixture and shredded cheese.
7. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until eggs are set and cheese is melted.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Servings: 8-10
Pineapple Upside-Down Cake Casserole
A twist on the classic pineapple upside-down cake, this casserole combines moist cake with a sweet and tangy pineapple topping.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 can (14.5 oz) pineapple rings and juice
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, and melted butter until combined.
3. Beat in eggs and vanilla extract.
4. Pour batter into a 9×13-inch baking dish.
5. Arrange pineapple rings on top of cake batter, reserving juice.
6. Sprinkle brown sugar evenly over pineapple.
7. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until toothpick inserted comes out clean.
8. Remove from oven and let cool for 10 minutes.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Summary
Get ready to cozy up with these classic casserole recipes! From comforting comfort foods like cheesy chicken and rice, tuna noodle, and beef and potato, to sweet treats like pineapple upside-down cake and French toast, there’s something for everyone. These tried-and-true recipes are sure to become new favorites, featuring a mix of savory and sweet dishes that are perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or just a quick weeknight meal. Whether you’re in the mood for a classic shepherd’s pie or a loaded baked potato casserole, this collection has got you covered.
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