Are you looking for a crowd-pleasing dish to serve at your next gathering or family dinner? Look no further than the humble casserole! With its comforting combination of pasta, meat, vegetables, and cheese, it’s a staple in many households. From classic comfort food favorites to innovative twists on traditional recipes, casseroles are perfect for any occasion.
Whether you’re hosting a potluck, feeding a crowd after a sports game, or just need a quick and easy weeknight meal, we’ve got you covered with our collection of 18 delicious classic casserole recipes. From cheesy chicken and rice to spinach and artichoke, and from breakfast casseroles to sweet potato and marshmallow, there’s something for everyone.
In this article, we’ll be sharing some of the most beloved and tried-and-true casserole recipes that are sure to become new family favorites. So grab your mixing bowls, preheat your oven, and get ready to dig in!
Cheesy Chicken and Rice Casserole
A classic comfort food recipe that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a family gathering. This casserole is easy to make, creamy, and packed with flavorful chicken, rice, and cheese.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups cooked white rice
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 1 cup frozen peas and carrots
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1 tablespoon butter
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a large skillet, sauté chicken, onion, and peas and carrots in butter until chicken is cooked through.
3. In a separate pot, combine cooked rice, milk, and paprika. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until creamy.
4. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter.
5. Add the chicken mixture to the prepared dish, followed by the rice mixture.
6. Top with shredded cheese.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Classic Tuna Noodle Casserole
Classic Tuna Noodle Casserole Recipe
This comforting casserole is a staple of many households, and for good reason – it’s easy to make, packed with flavor, and satisfies the whole family. With its creamy tuna filling and crispy noodle topping, it’s a perfect solution for a weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
• 1 (12 oz) can of tuna in water, drained
• 1 cup cooked noodles (such as macaroni or egg noodles)
• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 1/4 cup chopped onion
• 1/4 cup grated cheddar cheese
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/4 cup crushed crackers
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. Cook noodles according to package instructions; set aside.
3. In a medium bowl, combine tuna, mayonnaise, onion, cheese, paprika, salt, and pepper; mix well.
4. In a 9×13 inch baking dish, arrange half of the cooked noodles in the bottom.
5. Pour the tuna mixture over the noodles.
6. Top with remaining noodles, then sprinkle crushed crackers on top.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown and hot through.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Beef and Potato Casserole
A hearty and comforting casserole that combines tender beef, fluffy potatoes, and savory flavors.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 2 large potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
– 1 onion, chopped
– 1 cup frozen peas and carrots
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 tbsp tomato paste
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– 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 into small pieces as it cooks.
3. In a separate pot, boil the sliced potatoes until slightly tender. Drain and set aside.
4. In a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, arrange half of the cooked potatoes in an even layer.
5. Add the browned beef, chopped onion, frozen vegetables, beef broth, tomato paste, and oregano on top of the potatoes.
6. Repeat the layers, ending with the remaining potatoes.
7. Sprinkle shredded cheese over the top.
8. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until the casserole is hot and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Green Bean Casserole with Crispy Onions
This comforting casserole combines tender green beans, creamy sauce, and crispy onions for a delightful side dish perfect for any occasion. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal prep time, you’ll be enjoying a warm and satisfying meal in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh or frozen green beans
– 1 medium onion, sliced into thin rings
– 1 cup cream of mushroom soup
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1/2 cup french-fried onions
– 1 teaspoon black pepper
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. Cook green beans according to package instructions or steam until tender.
3. In a separate pan, cook onion rings in butter until golden brown and crispy. Drain on paper towels.
4. In a mixing bowl, combine cream of mushroom soup, milk, salt, and pepper.
5. Arrange cooked green beans in a 9×13 inch baking dish. Top with the soup mixture and sprinkle with french-fried onions.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until hot and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Broccoli and Cheese Casserole
This classic comfort food recipe combines the nutrients of broccoli with the creaminess of cheese, making it a perfect dish for any meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of broccoli, cut into florets
– 2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup of milk
– 1/4 cup of butter, melted
– 1 teaspoon of salt
– 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper
– 1 cup of cooked white rice (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a large skillet, steam the broccoli until tender.
3. In a separate saucepan, combine the milk and melted butter. Bring to a simmer over medium heat.
4. Add the shredded cheese, salt, and pepper to the saucepan. Stir until smooth.
5. Combine the cooked broccoli with the cheese sauce. Mix well.
6. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish. Top with additional cheese if desired.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the casserole is hot and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Classic Shepherd’s Pie Casserole
A hearty, comforting casserole that’s perfect for a chilly evening or a special occasion. This classic recipe combines tender ground beef, rich gravy, and creamy mashed potatoes for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 cup frozen peas and carrots
– 1 cup beef broth
– 2 tbsp tomato paste
– 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
– 2 tsp Worcestershire sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 cups mashed potatoes
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Brown ground beef in a large skillet over medium-high heat, breaking it up with a spoon.
3. Add onion, garlic, peas and carrots, beef broth, tomato paste, flour, and Worcestershire sauce. Simmer for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish.
5. Top with mashed potatoes, spreading evenly.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Macaroni and Cheese Casserole
A classic comfort food recipe that’s easy to make and always a crowd-pleaser, this macaroni and cheese casserole is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz macaroni
– 2 cups milk
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup grated mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 2 tbsp butter
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook macaroni according to package instructions until al dente.
3. In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook for 1 minute.
4. Gradually add milk, whisking continuously to avoid lumps. Bring mixture to a simmer.
5. Remove from heat and stir in cheddar and mozzarella cheese until melted. Season with salt and pepper.
6. In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked macaroni and cheese sauce. Mix well.
7. Transfer the macaroni mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish.
8. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until top is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Chicken Tetrazzini Casserole
A classic comfort food dish that combines juicy chicken, creamy sauce, and crispy breadcrumbs, perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion. This easy-to-make casserole is sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cooked and shredded
– 1 cup cream of mushroom soup
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/2 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 cup breadcrumbs
– 2 tablespoons butter, melted
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine chicken, cream of mushroom soup, milk, Parmesan cheese, parsley, thyme, and pepper. Mix well.
3. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish.
4. Sprinkle breadcrumbs evenly over the top.
5. Dot the top with melted butter.
6. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Sweet Potato and Marshmallow Casserole
Sweet Potato and Marshmallow Casserole Recipe
A sweet and savory casserole that combines the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes with the fluffy lightness of marshmallows.
Ingredients:
– 2 large sweet potatoes, cooked and mashed
– 1 cup mini marshmallows
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine mashed sweet potatoes, brown sugar, granulated sugar, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
3. Stir until well combined.
4. Fold in mini marshmallows.
5. Pour mixture into a 9×13-inch baking dish.
6. Drizzle melted butter over the top.
7. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until casserole is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Lasagna Casserole with Ground Beef
A classic comfort food dish, Lasagna Casserole with Ground Beef is a hearty and satisfying meal that’s perfect for any occasion. With its layers of pasta, meat sauce, and melted mozzarella cheese, this casserole is sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups marinara sauce
– 1 cup ricotta cheese
– 8 lasagna noodles
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. Cook ground beef in a large skillet over medium-high heat, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks, until browned, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Add onion and garlic to the skillet and cook until the onion is translucent.
4. Stir in marinara sauce and bring to a simmer.
5. In a separate bowl, combine ricotta cheese and a pinch of salt and pepper.
6. Cook lasagna noodles according to package instructions.
7. Assemble the casserole by layering cooked noodles, meat sauce, and ricotta mixture in a 9×13-inch baking dish.
8. Top with mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
9. Bake for 30-40 minutes or until hot and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Eggplant Parmesan Casserole
A classic Italian-American dish gets a comforting twist with this Eggplant Parmesan Casserole recipe. Layers of tender eggplant, rich tomato sauce, and melted mozzarella cheese come together in a satisfying casserole perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions.
Ingredients:
– 2 large eggplants, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– 1 cup tomato sauce
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss eggplant slices with salt and let them sit for 30 minutes to draw out excess moisture.
3. Rinse the eggplant slices under cold water, pat dry with paper towels, and set aside.
4. In a separate saucepan, heat tomato sauce over medium heat until warmed through.
5. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with olive oil.
6. Layer eggplant slices, tomato sauce, mozzarella cheese, and Parmesan cheese in that order, finishing with a layer of cheese on top.
7. Sprinkle breadcrumbs over the top layer of cheese.
8. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until golden brown.
9. Garnish with fresh basil leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Classic Breakfast Casserole with Sausage
Start your day off right with this hearty, flavorful casserole that combines the best of breakfast staples – sausage, eggs, and toast.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound sweet or hot sausage, casings removed
– 6 large eggs
– 1 cup milk
– 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup toasted white bread, cut into 1-inch cubes
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Cook sausage in a large skillet over medium-high heat, breaking up with spoon as it cooks, until no longer pink.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, salt, and pepper.
4. Add cooked sausage, bread cubes, and cheese to egg mixture; stir until combined.
5. Pour mixture into 9×13-inch baking dish and smooth top.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until eggs are set and casserole is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Cornbread and Chili Casserole
This comforting casserole combines the classic duo of cornbread and chili, perfect for a cozy night in or a crowd-pleasing main course. The crispy cornbread crust adds a delightful textural element to the rich, flavorful chili.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 cups cornmeal
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 large egg
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 can (15 oz) red kidney beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 can (16 oz) chili with ground beef
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, cornmeal, sugar, salt, and baking soda.
3. Add melted butter, egg, and mix until combined.
4. Pour batter into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
5. Spread chili mixture evenly over the cornbread batter.
6. Top with shredded cheese.
7. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until cornbread is golden brown and set.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Spinach and Artichoke Casserole
This Spinach and Artichoke Casserole is a classic comfort food recipe that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. With its creamy spinach and artichoke filling, crispy cheese crust, and crunchy crackers on top, it’s sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 (14 oz) can artichoke hearts, drained and chopped
– 2 cups fresh spinach leaves, chopped
– 1 cup cream of mushroom soup
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/2 teaspoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1 cup crushed crackers (e.g., Ritz)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine chopped artichoke hearts, spinach leaves, cream of mushroom soup, mayonnaise, Parmesan cheese, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
3. Pour the mixture into a 9×13-inch baking dish.
4. Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top.
5. Top with crushed crackers.
6. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Classic French Toast Casserole
Start your day with a sweet and satisfying breakfast treat that’s perfect for a crowd or a special occasion. This classic French toast casserole is easy to make and requires minimal supervision, making it ideal for busy mornings.
Ingredients:
– 1 loaf of Challah bread (or similar egg bread), cut into 1-inch cubes
– 2 large eggs
– 1 cup milk
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– Confectioners’ sugar (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, sugar, cinnamon, and salt until well combined.
3. Add bread cubes to the egg mixture and toss until evenly coated.
4. Pour the mixture into a 9×13-inch baking dish and dot with melted butter.
5. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until golden brown and puffed.
6. Sprinkle confectioners’ sugar on top (if using) and serve warm.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Zucchini and Tomato Casserole
A flavorful and healthy casserole perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend meal.
Ingredients:
– 2 medium zucchinis, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– 2 large tomatoes, diced
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the onion and garlic; cook until the onion is translucent, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the zucchini slices to the skillet; cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until they start to soften.
4. Stir in the diced tomatoes; cook for 1-2 minutes.
5. In a separate bowl, combine the cooked vegetable mixture and shredded mozzarella cheese.
6. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray. Add the zucchini-tomato mixture; top with grated Parmesan cheese.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the casserole is hot and the cheese is melted.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Ham and Cheese Hash Brown Casserole
A classic comfort food recipe that’s perfect for brunch or a casual dinner. This casserole combines crispy hash browns, savory ham, and melted cheese for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 2 large potatoes, peeled and grated
– 1/4 cup finely chopped yellow onion
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1/2 cup diced cooked ham
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup milk
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 egg, beaten (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large bowl, combine grated potatoes, chopped onion, and butter. Mix well.
3. Press the potato mixture into a 9×13-inch baking dish.
4. Top with diced ham, shredded cheese, and milk. Season with salt and pepper.
5. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until the top is golden brown and the casserole is hot and bubbly.
6. If desired, beat an egg and brush it over the top of the casserole before baking.
7. Serve warm and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Classic Tamale Pie Casserole
A comforting twist on traditional tamales, this casserole combines the flavors of Mexico with the ease of a one-dish wonder. Perfect for a cozy dinner or a crowd-pleasing potluck.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup cooked white rice
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies
– 1 tsp cumin
– 1 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 8-10 corn tortillas, cut into quarters
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. Brown the ground beef in a large skillet, then add onion and garlic; cook until softened.
3. Stir in cooked rice, diced tomatoes with green chilies, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper.
4. In a separate bowl, combine tortilla quarters and half of the cheese.
5. Assemble the casserole by spreading the meat mixture in a 9×13-inch baking dish, followed by the tortilla layer, then the remaining cheese.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until hot and bubbly.
7. Garnish with cilantro, if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Summary
Get ready to satisfy your cravings with these 18 classic casserole recipes! From comforting chicken and rice dishes to savory beef and potato options, there’s something for every occasion. Classics like green bean casserole with crispy onions and macaroni and cheese are joined by international twists like lasagna and eggplant parmesan. Whether you’re hosting a family dinner or looking for a quick weeknight meal, these tried-and-true recipes are sure to please.
