Are you tired of breaking the bank every time you want to make a delicious meal for your family? Look no further! With these 18 easy and budget-friendly casserole recipes, you can enjoy a satisfying dinner without sacrificing flavor or your wallet. From classic comfort foods like tuna noodle casserole and macaroni and cheese to more adventurous options like Mexican cornbread and green bean casserole with crispy onions, there’s something for everyone in this collection.
Whether you’re cooking for one or feeding a crowd, these casseroles are perfect for busy weeknights, casual gatherings, or even special occasions. And the best part? They’re all incredibly affordable, so you can enjoy your favorite dishes without breaking the bank.
In this article, we’ll explore 18 mouth-watering casserole recipes that won’t dent your wallet. From simple to elaborate, these meals are sure to become new family favorites.
Tuna noodle casserole with crispy breadcrumbs
A classic comfort food recipe that’s easy to make and pleases the whole family. This tuna noodle casserole is a staple for any busy household.
Ingredients:
– 1 (12 oz) can of tuna in water, drained
– 8 oz noodles (such as egg noodles or macaroni)
– 2 cups mixed vegetables (e.g., peas, carrots, corn)
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1/2 cup cream of mushroom soup
– 1/4 cup butter, melted
– 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. Cook noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a separate pot, combine tuna, mixed vegetables, milk, cream of mushroom soup, and melted butter. Heat until the mixture is smooth and warm.
4. Combine cooked noodles with the tuna mixture. Transfer to a 9×13-inch baking dish.
5. Sprinkle panko breadcrumbs evenly over the top of the casserole.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the top is golden brown and the casserole is heated through.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Cheesy chicken and rice casserole
A comforting classic, this cheesy casserole combines tender chicken, flavorful rice, and a rich creamy sauce for a satisfying meal. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups cooked white rice
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 cup frozen peas and carrots
– 1 can (10.5 oz) condensed cream of chicken soup
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked rice, chicken, peas and carrots, cream of chicken soup, milk, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
3. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish and top with shredded cheddar cheese.
4. Dot the top with butter.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the casserole is golden brown and the chicken is cooked through.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Ground beef and potato casserole
Ground Beef and Potato Casserole: A Hearty Comfort Food Recipe
This classic casserole is a staple of American comfort food, perfect for family gatherings or cozy weeknight dinners. With its rich ground beef flavor, tender potatoes, and creamy sauce, it’s sure to become a crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 2 large potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup frozen peas and carrots
– 1 cup milk
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a large skillet, cook ground beef until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as needed.
3. Add chopped onion, minced garlic, and frozen peas and carrots. Cook until the vegetables are tender.
4. In a separate pot, boil sliced potatoes until slightly tender. Drain and set aside.
5. In a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, create layers of ground beef mixture, potatoes, and grated cheese.
6. Top with breadcrumbs and dot with milk.
7. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Vegetable and bean casserole with cheese topping
A hearty and flavorful casserole that combines the goodness of vegetables, beans, and melted cheese.
Ingredients:
– 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 small zucchini, sliced
– 1 cup frozen corn kernels
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 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.
3. Add the onion, garlic, bell pepper, and zucchini. Cook until the vegetables are tender, about 5 minutes.
4. Stir in the black beans, corn kernels, paprika, salt, and pepper.
5. In a separate bowl, combine the cheddar and Parmesan cheese.
6. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray.
7. Add the vegetable mixture to the prepared baking dish.
8. Top with the cheese mixture and bake for 25-30 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Egg and sausage breakfast casserole
Start your day with a hearty and satisfying breakfast casserole packed with eggs, sausage, and cheese. This easy-to-make recipe is perfect for busy mornings or weekend brunches.
Ingredients:
– 6 large eggs
– 1 pound cooked sausage (such as chorizo or Italian sausage), crumbled
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1 tablespoon butter, melted
– 1 cup frozen hash browns, thawed
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, and melted butter.
3. Add crumbled sausage, shredded cheese, and hash browns to the egg mixture. Stir until well combined.
4. Pour the mixture into a 9×13-inch baking dish.
5. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until the casserole is set and the eggs are cooked through.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Macaroni and cheese casserole with hot dogs
This comforting casserole combines the simplicity of macaroni and cheese with the fun addition of hot dogs, making it a perfect meal for a family dinner or potluck.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz macaroni
– 2 cups milk
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup grated mozzarella cheese
– 4 hot dogs, sliced
– 1 tablespoon 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. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add flour and whisk together to make a roux, cooking for 1 minute.
4. Slowly add milk, whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Bring mixture to a simmer and cook until thickened, about 5 minutes.
5. Remove from heat and stir in cheddar and mozzarella cheese until melted. Add cooked macaroni and sliced hot dogs. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Transfer the casserole mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish and top with additional grated cheese if desired.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Mexican cornbread casserole with ground turkey
This Mexican cornbread casserole with ground turkey is a twist on traditional comfort food, blending the warmth of spices and cheese with the crunch of fresh vegetables.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground turkey
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup frozen corn kernels
– 1 cup black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 tsp cumin
– 1 tsp chili powder
– 1/2 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro (optional)
– 1 cup cornbread mix
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. Cook ground turkey, onion, and garlic in a large skillet over medium-high heat until browned, breaking into small pieces as it cooks.
3. Add cumin, chili powder, paprika, salt, and pepper to the turkey mixture; stir to combine.
4. In a separate bowl, mix together corn kernels, black beans, and red bell pepper.
5. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray. Layer the turkey mixture, then the corn-vegetable mixture, followed by the cornbread mix.
6. Top with shredded cheese and chopped cilantro (if using).
7. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until the casserole is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Broccoli and rice casserole with cream of mushroom soup
A comforting and flavorful side dish perfect for any occasion, this casserole combines the goodness of broccoli, rice, and cream of mushroom soup. A classic combination that’s easy to make and pleasing to the palate.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked white rice
– 3 cups broccoli florets
– 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup butter, melted
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked rice, broccoli, cream of mushroom soup, milk, and shredded cheese. Mix well until all ingredients are fully incorporated.
3. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish.
4. Drizzle melted butter over the top.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until hot and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Spaghetti squash and marinara casserole
A delicious and healthy twist on traditional pasta casseroles, this recipe uses spaghetti squash as a low-carb substitute for noodles. This casserole is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium spaghetti squash (about 2 lbs)
– 1 jar marinara sauce
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut the spaghetti squash in half lengthwise and scoop out the seeds.
3. Place the squash cut-side up on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Roast the squash for 45-50 minutes, or until the flesh is tender and can be easily shredded.
5. In a large bowl, combine marinara sauce, mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, and chopped basil.
6. Shred the cooked spaghetti squash into strands and add it to the bowl. Toss to combine.
7. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until hot and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 1 hour 5-10 minutes
Black bean and sweet potato casserole
A deliciously nutritious casserole that combines the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes with the savory flavor of black beans, all wrapped up in a crispy cornbread crust.
Ingredients:
– 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 onion, diced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup cornbread mix
– 1/4 cup water
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: shredded cheese (Monterey Jack or Cheddar) for topping
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine sweet potatoes, black beans, onion, bell pepper, and garlic.
3. Mix well, then transfer to a 9×13-inch baking dish.
4. In a separate bowl, prepare the cornbread mix according to package instructions using water and olive oil.
5. Pour the cornbread mixture over the sweet potato mixture.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until cornbread is golden brown and sweet potatoes are tender.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Chicken and stuffing casserole with gravy
This hearty casserole combines tender chicken, savory stuffing, and rich gravy in a comforting one-dish meal that’s perfect for weeknights or holidays.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 cups stale white bread, cubed
– 2 tbsp butter, melted
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup milk
– 2 tsp dried sage
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Gravy mix (homemade or store-bought), for serving
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, sauté chicken, onion, and garlic until cooked through.
3. Add bread, melted butter, chicken broth, milk, sage, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
4. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish.
5. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until golden brown on top.
6. Serve hot with gravy mix poured over the casserole.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Lentil and vegetable casserole with herbs
A hearty and flavorful casserole perfect for a chilly evening, this Lentil and Vegetable Casserole with Herbs is a satisfying vegetarian option that’s easy to prepare and packed with nutrients.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried green or brown lentils, rinsed and drained
– 2 cups mixed vegetables (such as carrots, zucchini, bell peppers, and onions)
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup vegetable broth
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large pot, sauté onion and garlic in olive oil until softened.
3. Add lentils, mixed vegetables, thyme, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for 5 minutes.
4. Stir in vegetable broth and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until lentils are tender.
5. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish. Top with shredded cheese (if using).
6. Bake for an additional 10-15 minutes or until heated through.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Corn and zucchini casserole with cheddar cheese
A warm and comforting side dish perfect for any occasion, this casserole combines the sweetness of corn and zucchini with the richness of cheddar cheese.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium zucchini, sliced
– 1 cup frozen corn kernels
– 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup milk
– 1 tablespoon butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a large skillet, sauté zucchini slices in butter until tender.
3. Add corn kernels and cook for an additional minute.
4. In a separate bowl, combine cheddar cheese and milk. Stir until smooth.
5. In a 9×13-inch baking dish, arrange cooked zucchini and corn mixture.
6. Pour the cheese sauce over the top and sprinkle with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the casserole is golden brown and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Pasta bake with spinach and feta
A classic comfort food recipe with a Greek twist, this spinach and feta pasta bake is a simple yet satisfying meal for any occasion. With just a few ingredients and minimal effort, you’ll be enjoying a deliciously cheesy and nutritious dish in no time.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz pasta of your choice
– 1 cup fresh spinach leaves
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1 cup grated mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
4. Add spinach leaves and cook until wilted, about 2-3 minutes.
5. Combine cooked pasta, wilted spinach, crumbled feta cheese, and grated mozzarella cheese in a baking dish.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Ham and scalloped potato casserole
A classic comfort food dish that’s perfect for family gatherings or potlucks, this casserole combines the savory flavors of ham with creamy scalloped potatoes.
Ingredients:
– 1 (8 oz) package of sliced ham
– 3-4 large potatoes, thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, arrange half of the potato slices in the bottom.
3. Top with ham slices, then sprinkle with half of the butter and half of the cream.
4. Repeat layers, starting with potatoes, then ham, and finally remaining butter and cream.
5. Sprinkle cheddar cheese on top and season with salt and pepper.
6. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until potatoes are tender and top is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Tomato and bread casserole (Panzanella-style bake)
This Italian-inspired casserole is a flavorful twist on the classic Panzanella bread salad. Fresh tomatoes, crispy bread, and creamy mozzarella come together in a simple yet satisfying dish perfect for a weeknight dinner or weekend brunch.
Ingredients:
– 4 cups stale bread, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 2 large ripe tomatoes, diced
– 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
– 8 oz mozzarella cheese, sliced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine bread, tomatoes, basil, and mozzarella.
3. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
4. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the bread is toasted and the cheese is melted.
6. Serve warm and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Green bean casserole with crispy onions
This beloved Thanksgiving side dish gets a delightful upgrade with the addition of crispy onions on top. A simple, yet flavorful recipe that’s sure to please!
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh green beans, trimmed
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 1 cup milk
– 1/2 cup cream of mushroom soup
– 1/2 cup french-fried onions
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Bring a pot of water to a boil and blanch the green beans for 5 minutes. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, sauté the chopped onion in butter until softened and lightly browned.
4. In a separate mixing bowl, combine milk, cream of mushroom soup, black pepper, and salt. Stir until smooth.
5. Add the cooked green beans and shredded cheddar cheese to the mixture; stir until combined.
6. Pour the green bean mixture into a 9×13 inch baking dish. Top with crispy french-fried onions.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Cheesy sausage and hash brown casserole
A hearty, comforting casserole perfect for a family dinner or a crowd-pleasing brunch. This recipe combines the flavors of savory sausage, crispy hash browns, and melted cheese.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound sweet Italian sausage, casings removed
– 2 large potatoes, peeled and grated
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook sausage in a large skillet over medium-high heat, breaking up with spoon, until browned and cooked through.
3. In a separate pan, cook hash browns and onion over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until golden brown.
4. In a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, combine cooked sausage, hash browns, garlic, and cheese.
5. Pour milk over the top and dot with olive oil.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until hot and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Summary
Get ready to delight your taste buds with these 18 easy and affordable casserole recipes perfect for budget-friendly meals. From classic comfort food to international twists, this collection has something for everyone. Try tuna noodle casserole with crispy breadcrumbs, cheesy chicken and rice casserole, or ground beef and potato casserole for a hearty dinner. If you’re looking for something lighter, the vegetable and bean casserole with cheese topping is a great option. And don’t forget about breakfast – the egg and sausage breakfast casserole is sure to please.
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