As the temperatures rise, our appetites tend to shift towards lighter, cooler meals that still pack a punch. Summer casseroles are the perfect solution – they’re easy to make, feed a crowd, and can be tailored to suit any taste or dietary need. From classic comfort foods with a seasonal twist to international flavors, we’ve gathered 20 of the most refreshing summer casserole recipes to try this year.
From zucchini and corn to Mediterranean vegetables and cheesy broccoli, these dishes are sure to become new favorites in your household. And don’t worry if you’re looking for something a bit more adventurous – there’s everything from spicy black bean and corn to tropical pineapple and ham on the list. Whether you’re planning a backyard BBQ or just want a quick and easy weeknight dinner, we’ve got you covered with these delicious summer casserole recipes.
Zucchini and Corn Summer Casserole
Perfect for warm weather gatherings, this colorful casserole combines the best of summer’s harvest – tender zucchinis, sweet corn, and a hint of garlic. This easy-to-make dish is sure to become a new family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 2 medium zucchinis, sliced
– 1 cup frozen corn kernels, thawed
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, sauté zucchinis and corn in butter until tender.
3. Add garlic; cook for an additional minute.
4. In a separate bowl, combine shredded cheese and breadcrumbs.
5. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and add the zucchini-corn mixture.
6. Top with the cheese-breadcrumb mixture.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Lemon Garlic Chicken and Rice Casserole
Lemon Garlic Chicken and Rice Casserole: A bright and citrusy twist on a classic comfort food dish!
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups uncooked white rice
– 3 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 lemons, juiced (about 1/4 cup)
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup frozen peas and carrots
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook rice according to package instructions.
3. In a large skillet, sauté chicken, garlic, lemon juice, and olive oil until chicken is cooked through.
4. Combine cooked rice, chicken mixture, thyme, salt, and pepper in a 9×13-inch baking dish.
5. Top with frozen peas and carrots.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until casserole is hot and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Tomato Basil Pasta Bake
Elevate your pasta game with this simple yet satisfying recipe that combines the sweetness of tomatoes, the brightness of basil, and the creaminess of melted mozzarella.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta of your choice (e.g., penne, fusilli)
– 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
– 1/2 cup grated mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tsp. garlic powder (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high. Add cherry tomatoes and cook for 3-4 minutes or until they release their juices.
4. Stir in chopped basil, salt, pepper, and garlic powder (if using). Cook for an additional minute.
5. Combine cooked pasta, tomato-basil mixture, and mozzarella cheese in a baking dish.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Summer Squash and Sausage Casserole
Summer Squash and Sausage Casserole: A hearty and flavorful one-pot dish perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or weekend brunch.
Ingredients:
– 2 medium summer squash, diced (about 2 cups)
– 1 pound sweet Italian sausage, casings removed
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 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, cook sausage over medium-high heat, breaking up with a spoon as it cooks, until browned and cooked through.
3. Add onion and garlic; cook until onion is translucent.
4. Add summer squash; cook until tender, about 5 minutes.
5. In a separate bowl, combine cheese and breadcrumbs.
6. Transfer skillet contents to a 9×13-inch baking dish. Top with the cheese-breadcrumb mixture.
7. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
8. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the top is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Mediterranean Vegetable Casserole
Savor the flavors of the Mediterranean with this hearty, healthy casserole, packed with an assortment of colorful vegetables and aromatic spices. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked brown rice
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (bell peppers, zucchini, eggplant, mushrooms)
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked brown rice, diced tomatoes, mixed vegetables, feta cheese, olive oil, oregano, salt, and pepper.
3. Mix well until all ingredients are fully incorporated.
4. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish and sprinkle with chopped parsley.
5. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until the casserole is hot and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Cheesy Broccoli and Cauliflower Bake
Elevate your veggie game with this comforting, cheesy casserole that’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a crowd-pleasing side dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of broccoli, florets only
– 1 head of cauliflower, broken into small pieces
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup grated mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup milk
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss broccoli and cauliflower with butter until well coated.
3. In a separate bowl, mix cheddar and mozzarella cheese.
4. Add milk, paprika, salt, and pepper to the cheese mixture; stir until smooth.
5. Pour the cheesy sauce over the vegetable mixture; toss until evenly coated.
6. Transfer to a baking dish and bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
Spicy Black Bean and Corn Casserole
Spicy Black Bean and Corn Casserole: A flavorful and spicy twist on a classic casserole recipe, perfect for a weeknight dinner or potluck gathering!
Ingredients:
– 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 cup frozen corn kernels
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (divided)
– 1/2 cup crushed tortilla chips
– Fresh cilantro, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add onion and bell pepper; cook until tender, about 5 minutes.
3. Add garlic, cumin, chili powder, and cayenne pepper; cook for 1 minute.
4. Stir in black beans, corn kernels, salt, and pepper.
5. In a 9×13-inch baking dish, arrange half of the tortilla chips. Top with bean mixture, then sprinkle with half of the cheddar cheese.
6. Repeat layers, ending with remaining cheese on top.
7. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until casserole is hot and bubbly.
Caprese Chicken Casserole
Elevate your weeknight dinner game with this Caprese-inspired chicken casserole, featuring the perfect balance of creamy, tangy, and savory flavors.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 8 oz fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp dried basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, cook chicken in olive oil until browned; set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add garlic, cherry tomatoes, and basil. Cook until tomatoes release their juices.
4. In a separate bowl, combine cooked chicken, tomato mixture, and sliced mozzarella cheese.
5. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish and top with shredded mozzarella cheese.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the casserole is golden brown and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Greek Orzo and Shrimp Bake
Greek Orzo and Shrimp Bake: A flavorful and satisfying one-pot dish that combines the nutty taste of orzo with succulent shrimp, feta cheese, and Mediterranean herbs.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup orzo pasta
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup white wine (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook orzo according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
4. Add shrimp to the skillet; cook until pink and just cooked through, about 2-3 minutes per side.
5. In a separate bowl, combine cooked orzo, shrimp mixture, oregano, paprika, salt, and pepper.
6. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and top with feta cheese.
7. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Peach and Blueberry French Toast Casserole
Start your day off sweet with this Peach and Blueberry French Toast Casserole! This mouthwatering breakfast dish is perfect for a weekend brunch or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 12 slices of bread (white or whole wheat)
– 2 ripe peaches, diced
– 1 cup fresh blueberries
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 2 large eggs
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– Confectioners’ sugar (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, heavy cream, and vanilla extract until well combined.
3. Add the bread slices to the mixture and let it soak for about 5 minutes or until the bread is fully saturated.
4. Transfer the soaked bread mixture into a 9×13-inch baking dish.
5. Arrange the diced peaches and blueberries on top of the bread, then sprinkle with granulated sugar and cinnamon.
6. Drizzle the melted butter over the fruit.
7. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until golden brown.
8. Sprinkle confectioners’ sugar (if using) before serving.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Ratatouille-Style Vegetable Bake
Savor the flavors of Provence with this hearty vegetable bake, inspired by the classic French dish Ratatouille. This colorful medley of roasted vegetables is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 large eggplant, sliced into 1/2-inch thick rounds
– 1 large zucchini, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– 1 large red bell pepper, seeded and sliced into 1-inch pieces
– 1 large can of crushed tomatoes (14.5 oz)
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil leaves, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss together eggplant, zucchini, bell pepper, crushed tomatoes, garlic, salt, and pepper.
3. Drizzle with olive oil and stir until vegetables are well coated.
4. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish and cover with aluminum foil.
5. Bake for 45 minutes, then remove foil and continue baking for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until vegetables are tender and lightly browned.
6. Garnish with chopped fresh basil leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 60-70 minutes
Southwest Chicken and Rice Casserole
A flavorful and comforting casserole that combines the spices of the Southwest with the simplicity of chicken, rice, and cheese. This dish is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 cups cooked white rice
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies
– 1 cup frozen corn kernels
– 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. In a separate bowl, combine cooked rice, diced tomatoes with green chilies, corn kernels, and cumin. Stir to combine.
4. In a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, arrange half of the rice mixture in the bottom. Top with chicken, then sprinkle with cheese and cilantro.
5. Repeat the layers, ending with the remaining rice mixture on top.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until hot and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Spinach and Artichoke Pasta Bake
A comforting, flavorful dish perfect for a weeknight dinner or weekend lunch, this pasta bake combines the richness of spinach and artichokes with the creaminess of Parmesan cheese.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta of your choice (e.g., penne, fusilli)
– 1 (14 oz.) can artichoke hearts, drained and chopped
– 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
– 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: 1/2 cup breadcrumbs for topping
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook pasta according to package directions; drain.
3. In a large skillet, sauté artichoke hearts, spinach, and melted butter until the spinach is wilted.
4. Add heavy cream and Parmesan cheese; stir until well combined.
5. Combine cooked pasta with the artichoke mixture and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Transfer the pasta mixture to a baking dish and top with additional Parmesan cheese (and breadcrumbs, if desired).
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
BBQ Pulled Pork and Sweet Potato Casserole
This comforting casserole combines the rich flavors of slow-cooked pork with the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes, perfect for a cozy dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds boneless pork shoulder
– 1/4 cup BBQ sauce
– 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
– 1 onion, thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. In a slow cooker, combine pork shoulder, BBQ sauce, salt, and pepper. Cook on low for 8 hours or high for 4 hours.
3. About 30 minutes before serving, prepare the sweet potato layer. In a separate pot of boiling water, cook sweet potatoes until tender. Drain and set aside.
4. Assemble the casserole by spreading cooked pork on the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish, followed by a layer of sweet potatoes, then onions.
5. Drizzle with olive oil and bake for 20-25 minutes or until the sweet potatoes are caramelized.
Cooking Time: 8 hours (slow cooker) + 20-25 minutes (oven)
Summer Garden Eggplant Parmesan
This recipe celebrates the flavors of summer by pairing tender eggplant slices with fresh herbs and a creamy sauce, all wrapped up in crispy breadcrumbs. Perfect for a light and satisfying meal on a warm evening.
Ingredients:
– 2 large eggplants, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– 1 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
– 1 cup tomato sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a shallow dish, mix together breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese.
3. Dip each eggplant slice into the breadcrumb mixture, coating both sides evenly.
4. Place coated eggplant slices on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
6. Top with tomato sauce and mozzarella cheese; return to oven for an additional 5-7 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
7. Sprinkle with parsley and basil before serving.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Creamy Pesto Chicken and Veggie Bake
Elevate your weeknight dinner game with this flavorful and satisfying recipe that combines the richness of pesto, the juiciness of chicken, and the crunch of roasted vegetables.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 1/4 cup creamy pesto sauce
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (such as bell peppers, zucchini, cherry tomatoes, and onions)
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss chicken with pesto sauce until coated.
3. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and arrange vegetables in a single layer.
4. Drizzle olive oil over the vegetables and sprinkle with salt and pepper.
5. Place chicken on top of the vegetables and bake for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through.
6. If using cheese, sprinkle on top of the chicken during the last 5 minutes of baking.
7. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Mexican Street Corn Casserole
Elevate your dinner game with this creamy, flavorful casserole that combines the classic street corn flavors of Mexico with a comforting, homey twist. Perfect for a family dinner or potluck gathering!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup frozen corn kernels
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 1/4 cup sour cream
– 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 1 lime, juiced
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 6-8 corn tortillas
– Vegetable oil for greasing
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine corn kernels, mayonnaise, sour cream, cheddar cheese, cilantro, lime juice, and paprika. Mix well.
3. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with vegetable oil.
4. Arrange 4-5 tortillas in the prepared dish, overlapping slightly.
5. Pour the corn mixture over the tortillas.
6. Top with remaining tortillas and sprinkle with additional cheese if desired.
7. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until the casserole is hot and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Lemon Herb Salmon and Asparagus Bake
A bright and flavorful dish that combines the richness of salmon with the crunch of asparagus, all wrapped up in a zesty lemon-herb sauce. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 1 pound fresh asparagus, trimmed
– 2 lemons, juiced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh dill
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
3. Place the salmon fillets on one half of the baking sheet, leaving space between each fillet.
4. Toss the asparagus with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread it out on the other half of the baking sheet.
5. Drizzle the lemon juice over the salmon, then sprinkle with parsley, dill, and garlic powder.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the salmon is cooked through and the asparagus is tender.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Tropical Pineapple and Ham Casserole
A sweet and savory twist on a classic casserole, this tropical pineapple and ham dish is perfect for a summer gathering or potluck. With the combination of juicy pineapple, crispy ham, and creamy sauce, you’ll be sure to impress your guests.
Ingredients:
– 1 (14 oz) can of pineapple rings in syrup
– 1 pound cooked ham, diced
– 1 cup cream of coconut
– 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 6 tablespoons butter, melted
– 1 1/2 cups crushed Ritz crackers
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine pineapple rings, ham, cream of coconut, and shredded cheese.
3. Pour mixture into a 9×13 inch baking dish.
4. Sprinkle chopped cilantro on top.
5. Drizzle melted butter over the casserole.
6. Top with crushed Ritz crackers.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Herbed Tomato and Mozzarella Casserole
A classic Italian-inspired casserole that combines the sweetness of tomatoes with the creaminess of mozzarella, all wrapped up in a fragrant herb package.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs cherry tomatoes, halved
– 8 oz fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh basil
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tsp dried oregano
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss cherry tomatoes with olive oil, basil, parsley, garlic, salt, and pepper.
3. Arrange tomato mixture in a 9×13 inch baking dish.
4. Top with mozzarella slices and sprinkle with oregano.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
6. Serve warm, garnished with additional basil if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Summary
Beat the heat this summer with these refreshing casserole recipes! From classic comfort foods to innovative twists, our collection of 20 mouthwatering dishes will keep you cool and satisfied. Enjoy zesty combos like Zucchini and Corn Summer Casserole and Spicy Black Bean and Corn Casserole, or try something new with Mediterranean Vegetable Casserole and Tropical Pineapple and Ham Casserole. Whether you’re in the mood for chicken, seafood, or veggies, there’s a casserole on this list that’s sure to hit the spot.
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