Transform family favorites like pizza, stuffed peppers and chicken Cordon Bleu into no-fuss, one-pan meals. These casseroles dish up all the flavor and comfort of their classic counterparts without all the work!
40 Classic Dinners That Taste Better as Casseroles
Inspired by: Burritos
Back when I was in college, my roommate would frequently make this economical baked burrito casserole. It’s so easy to put together, and one serving goes a long way. —Cindee Ness, Horace, North Dakota
1/39
2/39
Inspired By: Ham and Swiss Sandwich
Total Time
55 min
Servings
8 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
When I prepare this noodle casserole for church gatherings, it's always a hit. It can easily be doubled or tripled for a crowd. —Doris Barb, El Dorado, Kansas
Nutrition Facts:
1 serving: 360 calories, 18g fat (10g saturated fat), 92mg cholesterol, 815mg sodium, 27g carbohydrate (4g sugars, 1g fiber), 20g protein.
3/39
Inspired By: Corn Dogs
Total Time
55 min
Servings
10 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
Reminiscent of traditional corn dogs, this fun main dish really hits the spot on fall days. It's perfect for the football parties my husband and I often host. It tastes especially good right from the oven.
-Marcy Suzanne Olipane, Belleville, Illinois
Nutrition Facts:
1 cup: 578 calories, 38g fat (16g saturated fat), 108mg cholesterol, 1307mg sodium, 40g carbohydrate (13g sugars, 4g fiber), 19g protein.
4/39
Inspired By: Nachos
Total Time
45 min
Servings
10 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
I have been serving this rich and zippy chicken casserole for years, and it's always a favorite of my family and friends. It's sure to disappear quickly at potluck suppers too. —Thom Britton, Three Rivers, Michigan
Nutrition Facts:
1 cup: 496 calories, 27g fat (11g saturated fat), 81mg cholesterol, 1299mg sodium, 32g carbohydrate (8g sugars, 2g fiber), 29g protein.
5/39
Inspired By: Shrimp Pasta
Total Time
50 min
Servings
8 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
Shrimp pairs beautifully with the herbs, salsa and three kinds of cheese in this baked angel hair pasta casserole. The shrimp make this dish special enough for a guests, but your family is sure to enjoy it, too. —Susan Davidson, Elm Grove, Wisconsin
Nutrition Facts:
1-1/4 cups: 340 calories, 13g fat (7g saturated fat), 203mg cholesterol, 593mg sodium, 25g carbohydrate (5g sugars, 1g fiber), 27g protein.
6/39
Inspired BY: Macaroni and Cheese
Total Time
30 min
Servings
6 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
I've been working to perfect a creamy, spicy mac and cheese for years. After adding smoky bacon, jalapenos and spicy cheese, this is the ultimate side dish! —Sarah Gilbert, Aloha, Oregon
Nutrition Facts:
1 cup: 673 calories, 50g fat (28g saturated fat), 175mg cholesterol, 705mg sodium, 26g carbohydrate (3g sugars, 1g fiber), 32g protein.
7/39
Inspired By: Chop Suey
Total Time
1 hour
Servings
8 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
Crispy chow mein noodles top this twist on chop suey that’s sure to be a family favorite. Willie DeWaard - Coralville, IA
Nutrition Facts:
1 cup: 461 calories, 18g fat (7g saturated fat), 59mg cholesterol, 1233mg sodium, 44g carbohydrate (4g sugars, 5g fiber), 28g protein.
8/39
Inspired by: Cabbage Rolls
Total Time
1 hour 15 min
Servings
8 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
I layer cabbage with tomato sauce and ground beef lasagna-style to create a hearty casserole that tastes like cabbage rolls but without all the work. —Doreen Martin, Kitimat, British Columbia
Nutrition Facts:
1-1/3 cups: 384 calories, 19g fat (7g saturated fat), 83mg cholesterol, 813mg sodium, 26g carbohydrate (6g sugars, 5g fiber), 29g protein.
9/39
Inspired by: Supreme Pizza
Total Time
25 min
Servings
10 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
I discovered this recipe in the reader's exchange page of our local electric cooperative's magazine. Serve it whenever you've got a crowd to please!—Judy Chandler, Franklin, Kentucky
Nutrition Facts:
1 serving: 422 calories, 25g fat (14g saturated fat), 83mg cholesterol, 764mg sodium, 21g carbohydrate (4g sugars, 2g fiber), 28g protein.
10/39
Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole
Total Time
1 hour
Servings
8 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
This dish always gets rave reviews! Using rotisserie chicken makes it super easy to assemble and gives it an extra boost in flavor. Sometimes I like to add smoked paprika to the sauce and a little seasoned salt to the bread crumbs. —Mary Brehm, Cape Coral, Florida
Nutrition Facts:
1 cup: 489 calories, 29g fat (15g saturated fat), 156mg cholesterol, 899mg sodium, 15g carbohydrate (4g sugars, 1g fiber), 41g protein.
11/39
Inspired by: Cheeseburgers & Fries
Total Time
1 hour
Servings
8 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
Kids love this casserole because it combines two of their favorite fast foods. And I like the fact that I can whip it up with just a few ingredients and little prep time. It's a win-win for all! —Karen Owen, Rising Sun, Indiana
Nutrition Facts:
1-1/2 cups: 352 calories, 17g fat (5g saturated fat), 62mg cholesterol, 668mg sodium, 25g carbohydrate (1g sugars, 2g fiber), 25g protein.
12/39
Meatball Submarine Casserole
Total Time
30 min
Servings
4 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
We were hosting a bunch of friends, and after a comedy of errors, I had to come up with a plan B for dinner. I realized that much-loved meatball subs are even better as a hearty casserole—so delicious! —Rick Friedman, Palm Springs, California
Nutrition Facts:
1 serving: 417 calories, 28g fat (13g saturated fat), 59mg cholesterol, 1243mg sodium, 22g carbohydrate (8g sugars, 3g fiber), 23g protein.
13/39
Reuben Bread Pudding
Total Time
55 min
Servings
6 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
Our Aunt Renee always brought this casserole to family picnics in Chicago.
It became so popular that she started bringing two or three. I have also made
it using dark rye bread or marbled rye, and ham instead of corned beef—all the variations are delicious! —Johnna Johnson, Scottsdale, Arizona
Nutrition Facts:
1 piece: 390 calories, 25g fat (10g saturated fat), 165mg cholesterol, 1295mg sodium, 21g carbohydrate (7g sugars, 3g fiber), 19g protein.
14/39
Inspired by: Chicken Potpie
Total Time
55 min
Servings
8 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
I always have leftover chicken broth on hand and use it for many things, including this comforting family favorite. You can bake your own biscuits as I do or buy them at the store. I like to bake extra biscuits to eat with butter and jam. —Liliane Jahnke, Cypress, Texas
Nutrition Facts:
1 serving: 488 calories, 26g fat (14g saturated fat), 117mg cholesterol, 910mg sodium, 36g carbohydrate (6g sugars, 3g fiber), 27g protein.
15/39
Grilled Cheese & Tomato Soup Bake
Total Time
50 min
Servings
6 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
This casserole brings together two classic comfort foods: grilled cheese sandwiches and tomato soup. There’s no need for your hands to get messy dipping bread into a bowl of hot soup! Best of all, my picky-eater husband devours every bite. —Megan Kuns, Perrysburg, Ohio
Nutrition Facts:
1 sandwich: 485 calories, 29g fat (17g saturated fat), 137mg cholesterol, 918mg sodium, 33g carbohydrate (7g sugars, 2g fiber), 23g protein.
16/39
Taco Salad Casserole
Total Time
40 min
Servings
4 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
This taco casserole recipe tastes like a taco salad and is a breeze to assemble. I crush tortilla chips to form a bottom layer, then spread on refried beans, a spicy meat mixture and cheese. —Rhonda McKee, Greensburg, Kansas
Nutrition Facts:
1 cup: 527 calories, 28g fat (12g saturated fat), 98mg cholesterol, 1529mg sodium, 35g carbohydrate (1g sugars, 5g fiber), 33g protein.
17/39
Oven-Baked Shrimp & Grits
Total Time
1 hour
Servings
6 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
On chilly days, I doctor up grits and top them with shrimp for a comfy meal. If you’re not a seafood lover, use chicken, ham or both. —Jerri Gradert, Lincoln, Nebraska
Nutrition Facts:
1-2/3 cups: 360 calories, 18g fat (10g saturated fat), 141mg cholesterol, 1199mg sodium, 26g carbohydrate (2g sugars, 2g fiber), 25g protein.
18/39
Kentucky Hot Brown
Total Time
35 min
Servings
2 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
The Kentucky Hot Brown is the best sandwich you will ever eat with a knife and fork. This epic open-faced delight has thick slices of bread, turkey, bacon, tomato and cheese, all bathed in a rich, irresistible sauce. —Kristina Vanni, North Hollywood, California
Nutrition Facts:
1 serving: 1073 calories, 52g fat (28g saturated fat), 289mg cholesterol, 1822mg sodium, 57g carbohydrate (11g sugars, 3g fiber), 93g protein.
19/39
Unstuffed Peppers
Total Time
30 min
Servings
6 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
If you like stuffed peppers, you'll love this speedy version. It offers all the comforting flavor of the original, but takes just half an hour. Instead of cooking the instant rice, you can use 2 cups leftover cooked rice if you have it on hand. —Beth Dewyer, Du Bois, Pennsylvania
Nutrition Facts:
1 serving: 343 calories, 12g fat (5g saturated fat), 43mg cholesterol, 469mg sodium, 38g carbohydrate (12g sugars, 3g fiber), 20g protein.
20/39
Chicken Pasta Casserole
Total Time
1 hour 20 min
Servings
4 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
This is my family’s favorite every week or two and we never tire of it. I like that I can put it together and relax while it bakes. —Carmen Vanosch, Vernon, British Columbia
Nutrition Facts:
1-1/2 cups: 579 calories, 28g fat (12g saturated fat), 128mg cholesterol, 1357mg sodium, 36g carbohydrate (9g sugars, 4g fiber), 47g protein.
21/39
Inspired by: Enchiladas Verdes
Total Time
1 hour 10 min
Servings
10 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
Your family is going to gobble up this cheesy, southwestern and easy chicken enchilada casserole…and will ask for it again and again. It’s real comfort food! —Melanie Burns, Pueblo West, Colorado
Nutrition Facts:
1 cup: 428 calories, 27g fat (14g saturated fat), 103mg cholesterol, 709mg sodium, 16g carbohydrate (3g sugars, 1g fiber), 32g protein.
22/39
Chicken and Dumpling Casserole
Total Time
1 hour 10 min
Servings
8 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
This classic, savory casserole is one of my husband's favorites. He loves the fluffy dumplings with plenty of gravy. The basil adds just the right flavor and makes the whole house smell so good while this dish bakes. —Sue Mackey, Jackson, Wisconsin
Nutrition Facts:
1 serving: 393 calories, 17g fat (7g saturated fat), 80mg cholesterol, 1313mg sodium, 33g carbohydrate (6g sugars, 3g fiber), 27g protein.
23/39
Inspired by: Lemon Pepper Chicken
Total Time
1 hour 10 min
Servings
2 casseroles (4 servings each)
From the Recipe Creator:
I couldn’t say who loves this recipe best, because it gets raves every time I serve it! Occasionally I even get a phone call or email from a friend requesting the recipe, and it's certainly a favorite for my grown children and 15 grandchildren. —Maryalice Wood, Langley, British Columbia
Nutrition Facts:
2 chicken thighs with 3/4 cup rice mixture: 624 calories, 26g fat (6g saturated fat), 173mg cholesterol, 754mg sodium, 41g carbohydrate (1g sugars, 1g fiber), 53g protein.
24/39
Inspired by: Pasta With Meat Sauce
Total Time
50 min
Servings
6 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
It takes a little longer to make baked spaghetti, but the difference in taste, texture and richness is well worth the time. I serve this lasagna-style dish with a tossed green salad and breadsticks for a hearty, healthy meal. —Betty Rabe, Mahtomedi, Minnesota
Nutrition Facts:
1 serving: 343 calories, 10g fat (3g saturated fat), 87mg cholesterol, 616mg sodium, 39g carbohydrate (9g sugars, 3g fiber), 23g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 2 starch, 2 medium-fat meat, 1 vegetable.
25/39
Fold-Over Tortilla Bake
Total Time
40 min
Servings
6 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
Here’s something a little different to shake up taco night. But don’t reserve this zippy dish for a weeknight—it’s perfect for potlucks and serving company, too. something a little different from the usual tacos. It's special enough for potlucks or dinner guests. —Deborah Smith, DeWitt, Nebraska
Nutrition Facts:
2 tortillas: 473 calories, 25g fat (10g saturated fat), 69mg cholesterol, 1138mg sodium, 38g carbohydrate (7g sugars, 2g fiber), 27g protein.
26/39
Artichoke Ratatouille Chicken
Total Time
1 hour 25 min
Servings
6 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
I loaded all the fresh produce I could find into this speedy chicken dinner. Serve it on its own or over pasta. —Judy Armstrong, Prairieville, Louisiana
Nutrition Facts:
1-2/3 cups: 252 calories, 9g fat (2g saturated fat), 67mg cholesterol, 468mg sodium, 15g carbohydrate (4g sugars, 4g fiber), 28g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 3 lean meat, 1 starch, 1 fat.
27/39
Pork Chops with Apples and Stuffing
Total Time
1 hour
Servings
6 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
The heartwarming taste of cinnamon and apples is the perfect accompaniment for these tender pork chops. The dish is always a winner with my family. Because it calls for only four ingredients, it's a main course I can serve with little preparation. —Joan Hamilton, Worcester, Massachusetts
Nutrition Facts:
1 serving: 527 calories, 21g fat (9g saturated fat), 102mg cholesterol, 550mg sodium, 48g carbohydrate (15g sugars, 3g fiber), 36g protein.
28/39
Chicken Tamale Casserole
Total Time
35 min
Servings
8 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
When I serve this Mexican-style casserole, everyone scrapes the plate clean. Offer fresh toppings like green onions, tomatoes and avocado. —Jennifer Stowell, Smithville, Missouri
Nutrition Facts:
1 piece: 364 calories, 17g fat (7g saturated fat), 81mg cholesterol, 851mg sodium, 35g carbohydrate (9g sugars, 4g fiber), 21g protein.
29/39
Inspired by: Pasta Fagioli
Total Time
1 hour 5 min
Servings
8 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
The name of this Italian-inspired dish means "baked pasta with beans." But my busy family translates it as "super satisfying dinner." —Cindy Preller, Grayslake, Illinois
Nutrition Facts:
1 serving: 440 calories, 23g fat (10g saturated fat), 66mg cholesterol, 1029mg sodium, 37g carbohydrate (5g sugars, 6g fiber), 22g protein.
30/39
Inspired by: Oysters Rockefeller
Total Time
45 min
Servings
6 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
I oversee the gardens at Colonial Williamsburg. We've learned that the colonists had a ready source of oysters from Chesapeake Bay. I enjoy this rich, creamy casserole, a special dish from this area's holiday recipe collection. —Susan Dippre, Williamsburg, Virginia
Nutrition Facts:
1 serving: 639 calories, 44g fat (23g saturated fat), 297mg cholesterol, 1024mg sodium, 42g carbohydrate (9g sugars, 2g fiber), 17g protein.
31/39
Inspired by: Roast Lamb
Total Time
1 hour 55 min
Servings
8 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
This dish is hearty and perfect for warming up on a chilly winter evening. The aroma is almost as delightful as the dish itself. —Frank Grady, Fort Kent, Maine
Nutrition Facts:
1 piece: 356 calories, 13g fat (5g saturated fat), 82mg cholesterol, 631mg sodium, 34g carbohydrate (4g sugars, 4g fiber), 25g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 3 starch, 3 lean meat, 1-1/2 fat.
32/39
Inspired by: Chiles Rellenos
Total Time
55 min
Servings
8 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
My husband likes Mexican food and casseroles, so I combined the two. This chicken with poblanos and chiles satisfies our craving for dinner at a Mexican restaurant. —Erica Ingram, Lakewood, Ohio
Nutrition Facts:
1 serving: 610 calories, 34g fat (16g saturated fat), 151mg cholesterol, 987mg sodium, 51g carbohydrate (16g sugars, 5g fiber), 27g protein.
33/39
German Schnitzel and Potatoes with Gorgonzola Cream
Total Time
4 hours 20 min
Servings
4 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
I lived in Germany for five years and developed a fondness for traditional schnitzel. It’s a labor of love, so I came up with this easy, clever way to make it in a slow cooker. —Beth Taylor, Pleasant Grove, Utah
Nutrition Facts:
3 pieces pork with 1 cup potato mixture: 926 calories, 54g fat (33g saturated fat), 216mg cholesterol, 1132mg sodium, 73g carbohydrate (9g sugars, 5g fiber), 38g protein.
34/39
Eggplant Parmesan
Total Time
1 hour 5 min
Servings
8 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
Because my recipe calls for baking the eggplant instead of frying it, it’s much healthier than other versions of this dish! The prep time is a little longer than for some recipes, but the Italian flavors and rustic elegance are well worth it. —Laci Hooten, McKinney, Texas
Nutrition Facts:
1 serving: 305 calories, 12g fat (5g saturated fat), 102mg cholesterol, 912mg sodium, 32g carbohydrate (12g sugars, 9g fiber), 18g protein.
35/39
Short Rib Cobbler
Total Time
3 hours 45 min
Servings
8 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
This recipe was inspired by my family's love of two things—beef stew and biscuits. After years of making the two separately, I put the biscuits on top of the stew like a cobbler. This supper's as down-home as it gets. —Janine Talley, Orlando, Florida
Nutrition Facts:
1 serving: 452 calories, 22g fat (6g saturated fat), 48mg cholesterol, 929mg sodium, 40g carbohydrate (9g sugars, 3g fiber), 23g protein.
36/39
Chicken Club Casseroles
Total Time
55 min
Servings
2 casseroles (5 servings each)
From the Recipe Creator:
This chicken club casserole freezer meal is a warm, welcoming casserole that tastes as fresh and creamy after it's frozen as it does right out of the oven! — Janine Smith, Columbia, South Carolina
Nutrition Facts:
1-1/3 cups: 584 calories, 34g fat (10g saturated fat), 93mg cholesterol, 1161mg sodium, 36g carbohydrate (5g sugars, 2g fiber), 33g protein.
37/39
Inspired by: Chili Mac
Total Time
45 min
Servings
10 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
This cheesy casserole uses several of my family's favorite ingredients, including macaroni, kidney beans, tomatoes and cheese. Just add a leafy salad for a complete meal. —Marlene Wilson, Rolla, North Dakota
Nutrition Facts:
1 cup: 313 calories, 13g fat (6g saturated fat), 69mg cholesterol, 758mg sodium, 22g carbohydrate (6g sugars, 5g fiber), 30g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 3 lean meat, 1-1/2 starch, 1 fat.
38/39
Inspired by: Chicken Mole
Total Time
1 hour 30 min
Servings
8 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
My southwestern chicken casserole makes the perfect party dish when you're looking for something a little out of the ordinary. The mole sauce lends an authentic flavor, and folks are always pleasantly surprised to taste a little sweetness from the chocolate. —Barbara White, Livingston, Texas
Nutrition Facts:
1 serving: 640 calories, 36g fat (14g saturated fat), 144mg cholesterol, 1483mg sodium, 32g carbohydrate (4g sugars, 5g fiber), 50g protein.
39/39
Mini Scallop Casseroles
Total Time
50 min
Servings
4 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
Tiny and tender bay scallops take center stage in these miniature dishes. They're reminiscent of potpies, very creamy and packed with flavorful veggies in every bite. —Vivian Manary, Nepean, Ontario
Nutrition Facts:
1 serving: 332 calories, 12g fat (7g saturated fat), 70mg cholesterol, 588mg sodium, 27g carbohydrate (9g sugars, 2g fiber), 28g protein.
