When it comes to quick and easy weeknight meals, casseroles are often the unsung heroes. These comforting dishes can be prepared ahead of time, making them perfect for busy households with little time to spare. And let’s not forget about the leftovers – a good casserole can easily feed your family for multiple meals.
In this article, we’ll explore 20 delicious casserole recipes that are sure to become new favorites in your household. From classic comfort foods like cheesy chicken and rice to international-inspired dishes like Mexican cornbread, there’s something for everyone on this list. Whether you’re looking for a satisfying dinner or a convenient breakfast option, these casseroles have got you covered.
Cheesy Chicken and Rice Casserole
A comforting and satisfying casserole that combines the flavors of chicken, cheese, and rice, perfect for a weeknight dinner or weekend gathering.
Cheesy Chicken and Rice Casserole Recipe
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 cups cooked white rice
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 1 cup mixed frozen peas and carrots
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes.
3. Add diced onion and frozen vegetables to the skillet; cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
4. In a separate bowl, combine cooked rice, shredded cheese, milk, paprika, salt, and pepper.
5. In a 9×13-inch baking dish, arrange half of the chicken mixture, followed by half of the rice mixture. Repeat layers.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until casserole is hot and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Beef and Potato Casserole
This hearty casserole combines tender beef, creamy potatoes, and a rich beef broth for a satisfying weeknight meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 2 medium-sized potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 cup milk
– 2 tablespoons tomato paste
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
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 chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet and cook until the onion is translucent.
4. In a separate pot, boil the sliced potatoes for 5 minutes or until slightly tender.
5. In a 9×13 inch baking dish, combine the cooked beef mixture, boiled potatoes, beef broth, milk, tomato paste, thyme, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
6. Top with shredded cheddar cheese and cover with aluminum foil.
7. Bake for 30 minutes, then remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 10-15 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Broccoli Cheese Casserole
A classic comfort food dish that combines the flavors of steamed broccoli and melted cheese, perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of broccoli, cut into florets
– 2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese
– 1 cup of grated mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup of butter, softened
– 1 onion, diced
– 1 teaspoon of garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large skillet, steam the broccoli florets until tender. Drain excess water.
3. In a separate saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook until translucent.
4. Combine the cooked broccoli, onion mixture, cheddar cheese, mozzarella cheese, garlic powder, salt, and pepper in a 9×13 inch baking dish.
5. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
6. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Tuna Noodle Casserole
A classic comfort food dish that’s easy to make and packed with flavor! This tuna noodle casserole is a great way to get your daily dose of protein and omega-3 fatty acids.
Ingredients:
– 1 (12 oz) can of tuna in water, drained
– 8 oz of noodles (such as egg noodles or macaroni)
– 2 cups of milk
– 1 cup of cream of mushroom soup
– 1/2 cup of milk
– 1/4 cup of chopped onion
– 1/4 cup of frozen peas and carrots
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup of shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. Cook noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a separate bowl, combine tuna, milk, cream of mushroom soup, onion, peas and carrots, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
4. Add cooked noodles to the tuna mixture and stir until combined.
5. Pour mixture into a 9×13 inch baking dish.
6. Top with shredded cheddar cheese (if using).
7. Bake for 30-40 minutes or until hot and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Mexican Cornbread Casserole
A twist on classic cornbread, this casserole combines the warm spices of Mexico with the comfort of a hearty bread. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 cup cornmeal
– 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup crumbled cotija cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– 1 cup whole milk
– 2 large eggs
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, cornmeal, cheddar cheese, cotija cheese, cilantro, baking powder, salt, and cayenne pepper.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together milk, eggs, and vegetable oil.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and stir until just combined.
5. Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish and smooth the top.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Green Bean Casserole with Crispy Onions
A classic comfort food recipe gets a crunchy twist! This Green Bean Casserole is a simple, satisfying side dish that’s perfect for family dinners or holiday gatherings.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups fresh green beans, trimmed
– 1 medium onion, thinly sliced
– 1 cup milk
– 1/2 cup cream of mushroom soup
– 1/2 cup French-fried onions
– 1/4 cup grated cheddar cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a large skillet, sauté the green beans in a little water until tender. Drain.
3. In a separate pan, cook the onion slices in butter until crispy and golden brown. Set aside.
4. In a mixing bowl, combine the cooked green beans, cream of mushroom soup, milk, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
5. Pour the bean mixture into a 9×13-inch baking dish. Top with the crispy onions and sprinkle with cheddar cheese.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the casserole is hot and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Spinach and Artichoke Casserole
A creamy and flavorful casserole perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 (14 oz) can artichoke hearts, drained and chopped
– 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
– 1 cup mayonnaise
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a large bowl, combine artichoke hearts, spinach, mayonnaise, Parmesan cheese, parsley, garlic, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
3. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish.
4. Top with shredded cheddar cheese.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until casserole is golden brown and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Sweet Potato and Black Bean Casserole
Sweet Potato and Black Bean Casserole
A delicious and nutritious casserole that combines the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes with the savory flavor of black beans, perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
- 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Shredded cheese (optional)
Instructions:
- Precare the sweet potatoes in a large bowl.
- In a separate pan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
- Add the black beans, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper to the pan. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
- In a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, arrange half of the sweet potatoes in the bottom. Top with the bean mixture, then repeat with the remaining sweet potatoes.
- Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 30-40 minutes or until the sweet potatoes are tender and the casserole is heated through.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Philly Cheesesteak Casserole
Experience the classic flavors of a Philly cheesesteak in a convenient casserole form. This recipe combines tender beef, sautéed onions and bell peppers, melted cheese, and crispy breadcrumbs for a satisfying dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 2 large bell peppers, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
– 1 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 1 1/2 cups breadcrumbs
– 2 tbsp butter
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. Cook ground beef in a large skillet until browned, breaking into small pieces as it cooks.
3. Add chopped onion and bell peppers to the skillet; cook until tender.
4. Stir in garlic, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper.
5. In a separate bowl, combine shredded cheese and milk.
6. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter.
7. Layer beef mixture, cheese mixture, and breadcrumbs in that order.
8. Top with additional shredded cheese.
9. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until the casserole is hot and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Breakfast Sausage and Egg Casserole
Start your day off right with this hearty Breakfast Sausage and Egg Casserole, packed with flavorful sausage, eggs, and cheese.
Chicken Enchilada Casserole
A twist on traditional enchiladas, this casserole combines the flavors of tender chicken, creamy cheese, and spicy sauce for a deliciously easy meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1 can (10 oz) enchilada sauce
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 1/2 teaspoon cumin
– 1/4 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 6-8 corn tortillas
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a large skillet, cook chicken until browned and cooked through.
3. In a separate bowl, combine enchilada sauce, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper.
4. Arrange tortillas in the bottom of a 9×13 inch baking dish.
5. Spoon half the enchilada sauce over the tortillas, followed by half the chicken, half the cheese, and half the cilantro.
6. Repeat layers, ending with a layer of cheese on top.
7. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until hot and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Zucchini and Tomato Casserole
This hearty casserole is a perfect blend of flavors, textures, and nutrients, making it an ideal dish for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering. With the sweetness of zucchini and tomatoes, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
- 2 medium-sized zucchinis, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
- 2 large tomatoes, diced
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, sauté zucchini, onion, and garlic in olive oil until tender.
3. Add diced tomatoes and cook for an additional 5 minutes.
4. In a separate bowl, combine mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
5. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray.
6. Arrange the zucchini-tomato mixture in the prepared dish, followed by the cheese mixture on top.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Turkey Tetrazzini Casserole
This classic casserole is a creative twist on the traditional Thanksgiving turkey, featuring tender turkey, creamy sauce, and crispy puff pastry.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cooked turkey breast, diced
– 1 cup cream of mushroom soup
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1/4 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1 puff pastry sheet, thawed
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine turkey, cream of mushroom soup, milk, thyme, and paprika. Mix well.
3. Pour the mixture into a 9×13-inch baking dish.
4. Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top.
5. Roll out puff pastry sheet to fit the top of the casserole. Place on top.
6. Brush pastry edges with a little water and sprinkle with chopped parsley.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Loaded Baked Potato Casserole
A twist on classic baked potatoes, this casserole is a hearty and comforting dish perfect for family gatherings or weeknight meals.
Ingredients:
– 3-4 large baking potatoes, thinly sliced
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup sour cream
– 1/4 cup chopped scallions (green onions)
– 1/4 cup crumbled cooked bacon
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, arrange half of the potato slices in an even layer.
3. Sprinkle with half of the cheese, sour cream, scallions, and bacon.
4. Repeat layers, ending with a layer of potatoes on top.
5. Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 45 minutes.
6. Remove foil and continue baking for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until potatoes are tender and top is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 60-70 minutes
Lasagna Casserole with Ground Beef
A comforting and satisfying dish that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 1 cup grated mozzarella cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 egg, beaten
– 1 tsp dried basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8-10 lasagna noodles
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (for topping)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook ground beef, onion, and garlic until browned, breaking up meat with a spoon as it cooks.
3. Stir in crushed tomatoes, mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, beaten egg, basil, salt, and pepper.
4. Cook lasagna noodles according to package instructions.
5. In a 9×13-inch baking dish, spread a layer of the ground beef mixture, followed by a layer of noodles, then a layer of shredded mozzarella cheese.
6. Repeat steps 5-6 two more times, ending with a layer of cheese on top.
7. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Pumpkin and Sage Casserole
A hearty and flavorful fall dish that combines the sweetness of pumpkin with the earthy goodness of sage. Perfect for a cozy evening meal or as a side dish for the holidays.
Ingredients:
– 1 small to medium-sized pumpkin, cooked and mashed
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh sage leaves
– 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese (optional)
– 1 cup breadcrumbs
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the mashed pumpkin, butter, heavy cream, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Mix until smooth.
3. Stir in the chopped sage leaves.
4. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish.
5. If using cheese, sprinkle it evenly over the top of the casserole.
6. Top with breadcrumbs.
7. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until the casserole is set and the breadcrumbs are golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Ham and Swiss Casserole
A classic comfort food recipe that combines the savory flavors of ham and Swiss cheese with a crunchy breadcrumb topping.
Ingredients:
– 1 (16 oz) package of frozen hash brown potatoes, thawed
– 2 cups diced cooked ham
– 1 cup shredded Swiss cheese
– 1/4 cup milk
– 1 tablespoon butter, melted
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup French-fried onions
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine hash browns, ham, Swiss cheese, milk, melted butter, and thyme. Mix well until combined.
3. Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with cooking spray or butter.
4. Add the potato mixture to the prepared baking dish.
5. Sprinkle French-fried onions evenly over the top of the casserole.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the casserole is hot and the onions are golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Vegetable Shepherd’s Pie Casserole
A hearty, comforting casserole perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup frozen peas and carrots
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (such as corn, green beans, and bell peppers)
– 2 cups mashed potatoes
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup vegetable broth
– 1/4 cup butter, melted
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 pie crust or puff pastry, thawed
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine frozen peas and carrots, mixed vegetables, mashed potatoes, flour, vegetable broth, and butter. Mix well.
3. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish.
4. Roll out the pie crust or puff pastry and place it on top of the filling.
5. Crimp edges to seal and cut a few slits for steam to escape.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Macaroni and Cheese Casserole with Bacon
A comforting twist on the classic mac and cheese, this recipe adds crispy bacon for an extra layer of flavor.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz macaroni
– 2 cups milk
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup grated mozzarella cheese
– 6 slices of bacon, cooked and crumbled
– 2 tbsp butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook macaroni according to package instructions until al dente.
3. In a large saucepan, combine milk, cheddar cheese, mozzarella cheese, and cooked bacon. Stir until smooth and creamy.
4. Add butter and stir until melted.
5. Combine cooked macaroni with the cheesy sauce and mix well.
6. Transfer mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish and top with additional grated cheese (if desired).
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
BBQ Pulled Pork Casserole
A delicious twist on traditional pulled pork, this casserole combines tender pork with sweet and tangy BBQ sauce, creamy coleslaw, and crispy onions.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cooked pulled pork
– 1 cup BBQ sauce
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup coleslaw
– 1/4 cup chopped yellow onion
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine pulled pork, BBQ sauce, and shredded cheese. Mix until well combined.
3. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish.
4. Top with coleslaw and chopped onion.
5. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the casserole is hot and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Summary
Get ready to impress your family with these 20 mouthwatering casserole recipes perfect for weeknights! From classic comfort food like Cheesy Chicken and Rice Casserole to international twists like Mexican Cornbread Casserole, there’s something for everyone. Hearty options include Beef and Potato Casserole, Philly Cheesesteak Casserole, and Lasagna Casserole with Ground Beef. Meanwhile, veggie lovers will delight in Broccoli Cheese Casserole and Zucchini and Tomato Casserole. With a mix of easy, quick meals and more elaborate dishes, you’ll find inspiration for every occasion.
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