Tuck in to a hot, hearty meal with these diabetic-friendly casserole recipes. We have lightened-up versions of all of your favorites!
25 Delicious Casseroles for People with Diabetes
Updated on Jul. 28, 2022
Southwest Vegetarian Bake
This veggie-packed casserole hits the spot on chilly nights. It’s a healthy canned vegetable recipe that’s great for any time I have a taste for Mexican food with all the fixings. —Patricia Gale, Monticello, Illinois
1/25
2/25
Zucchini Lasagna
Total Time
1 hour
Servings
6 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
We plant zucchini every year and always seem to have more than we can use! This hearty zucchini lasagna is a delicious way to use an abundant crop. —Charlotte McDaniel, Williamsville, Illinois
Nutrition Facts:
1 serving: 273 calories, 13g fat (5g saturated fat), 92mg cholesterol, 725mg sodium, 14g carbohydrate (6g sugars, 3g fiber), 27g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 3 lean meat, 1 starch, 1 fat.
3/25
Ham and Spinach Pie
Total Time
1 hour 10 min
Servings
8 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
With the exception of the phyllo dough, which I always have on hand, this ham and spinach pie recipe is made entirely from Easter dinner leftovers. One of my neighbors traded me four freshly caught trout for a slice! —Teena Petrus, Johnstown, Pennsylvania
Nutrition Facts:
1 piece: 195 calories, 11g fat (6g saturated fat), 113mg cholesterol, 633mg sodium, 9g carbohydrate (2g sugars, 2g fiber), 16g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 2 fat, 1 lean meat, 1/2 starch.
4/25
Black Bean & White Cheddar Frittata
Total Time
35 min
Servings
6 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
This is one of my favorite comfort foods for breakfast or even a quick dinner. I like to make it with lime salsa. But if you're looking for something with more kick, use hot salsa or add some chipotle pepper. —Aysha Schurman, Ammon, Idaho
Nutrition Facts:
1 wedge (calculated without toppings): 183 calories, 10g fat (4g saturated fat), 196mg cholesterol, 378mg sodium, 9g carbohydrate (2g sugars, 2g fiber), 13g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 2 medium-fat meat, 1/2 starch, 1/2 fat.
5/25
Broccoli Tuna Casserole
Total Time
1 hour 35 min
Servings
8 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
When I was in the Navy, a co-worker's wife shared this recipe with me. I’ve tweaked it over the years, but it still brings back memories of my family away from home. —Yvonne Cook, Haskins, Ohio
Nutrition Facts:
1-1/4 cups: 271 calories, 8g fat (4g saturated fat), 38mg cholesterol, 601mg sodium, 30g carbohydrate (4g sugars, 4g fiber), 22g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 2 starch, 2 lean meat, 1/2 fat.
6/25
Pastry-Topped Turkey Casserole
Total Time
1 hour 5 min
Servings
6 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
My friends tell me this is the best potpie they've ever had. Hearty and full-flavored, my comforting classic never lets on that it’s also low in fat and a good source of fiber. —Agnes Ward, Stratford, Ontario
Nutrition Facts:
1 serving: 280 calories, 4g fat (1g saturated fat), 39mg cholesterol, 696mg sodium, 38g carbohydrate (9g sugars, 6g fiber), 23g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 2 starch, 2 lean meat, 1 vegetable, 1/2 fat.
7/25
Slow-Cooker Frittata Provencal
Total Time
3 hours 30 min
Servings
6 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
This recipe means that a delectable dinner is ready when I walk in the door from work. The meatless slow-cooker meal also makes an elegant brunch for lazy weekends. —Connie Eaton, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
Nutrition Facts:
1 serving: 245 calories, 14g fat (5g saturated fat), 385mg cholesterol, 338mg sodium, 12g carbohydrate (4g sugars, 2g fiber), 15g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 2 medium-fat meat, 1 starch, 1/2 fat.
8/25
Black Beans with Bell Peppers & Rice
Total Time
30 min
Servings
6 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
My meat and potatoes husband goes for this cheesy, hearty black beans and rice recipe, and the kids gobble it up. For extra kick, add a splash of hot sauce. —Stephanie Lambert, Moseley, Virgina
Nutrition Facts:
1 cup: 347 calories, 12g fat (6g saturated fat), 25mg cholesterol, 477mg sodium, 40g carbohydrate (4g sugars, 8g fiber), 15g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 2-1/2 starch, 2 lean meat, 1 fat.
9/25
Greek Breakfast Casserole
Total Time
1 hour 20 min
Servings
6 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
This is a great dish for a Sunday brunch, or you can cut it into six pieces and freeze it to have as a quick and easy breakfast any day of the week. I also like to make it with broccoli, carrots, green onions, Canadian bacon and sharp cheddar cheese; the variations are nearly endless! —Lauri Knox, Pine, Colorado
Nutrition Facts:
1 piece: 179 calories, 9g fat (3g saturated fat), 229mg cholesterol, 435mg sodium, 8g carbohydrate (2g sugars, 1g fiber), 17g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 2 medium-fat meat, 1 vegetable.
10/25
New England Lamb Bake
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.
11/25
Mexican Turkey Skillet
Total Time
50 min
Servings
8 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
This family-friendly main dish with turkey, black beans and vegetables has a rich Mexican flavor that may seem indulgent, but it’s delightfully light. Created by our Test Kitchen, it cooks in one skillet, so it’s a snap to clean up for a weeknight supper.
Nutrition Facts:
1 cup: 254 calories, 9g fat (3g saturated fat), 55mg cholesterol, 616mg sodium, 25g carbohydrate (4g sugars, 4g fiber), 19g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 2 lean meat, 1 starch, 1 vegetable, 1/2 fat.
12/25
Royal Broccoli Souffle
Total Time
1 hour
Servings
6 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
Talk about impressive! This side dish never fails to impress even the toughest of critics--my family. —Linda Evancoe-Coble, Leola, Pennsylvania
Nutrition Facts:
2/3 cup: 100 calories, 5g fat (3g saturated fat), 43mg cholesterol, 318mg sodium, 7g carbohydrate (2g sugars, 1g fiber), 6g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 1 fat, 1/2 starch.
13/25
Rustic Vegetable Frittata
Total Time
30 min
Servings
4 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
I love that this veggie-loaded frittata combines seriously nutritious ingredients into a filling dish I can serve as breakfast, lunch or dinner—and is still delicious even as leftovers! —Deborah Jamison, Austin, Texas
Nutrition Facts:
1 wedge: 259 calories, 14g fat (5g saturated fat), 340mg cholesterol, 448mg sodium, 16g carbohydrate (7g sugars, 2g fiber), 17g protein. Diabetic exchanges: 2 medium-fat meat, 1 starch.
14/25
Mushroom Turkey Tetrazzini
Total Time
1 hour
Servings
8 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
This creamy, comforting casserole makes a fantastic way to use up that leftover Thanksgiving turkey. And it’s a real family-pleaser! —Linda Howe, Lisle, Illinois.
Nutrition Facts:
1 cup: 357 calories, 7g fat (3g saturated fat), 71mg cholesterol, 717mg sodium, 38g carbohydrate (5g sugars, 3g fiber), 34g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 3 starch, 3 lean meat, 1/2 fat.
15/25
Chicken Brunch Bake
Total Time
1 hour 15 min
Servings
8 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
Chunks of tender chicken add heartiness to this appealing brunch casserole. This was my son's favorite hot lunch meal from high school. —DeLee Jochum, Dubuque, Iowa
Nutrition Facts:
1 serving: 233 calories, 6g fat (2g saturated fat), 62mg cholesterol, 458mg sodium, 18g carbohydrate (2g sugars, 3g fiber), 27g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 3 lean meat, 1 starch.
16/25
Mexicali Casserole
Total Time
1 hour 10 min
Servings
6 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
If you like Mexican food but are watching your diet, try this tasty bake. It takes advantage of ground turkey and reduced-fat cheese without sacrificing flavor. —Gertrudis C. Miller, Evansville, Indiana
Nutrition Facts:
1 serving: 331 calories, 9g fat (3g saturated fat), 59mg cholesterol, 604mg sodium, 38g carbohydrate (5g sugars, 6g fiber), 25g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 3 lean meat, 2 starch, 2 vegetable.
17/25
What's in the Fridge Frittata
Total Time
25 min
Servings
4 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
Great for a last-minute breakfast, brunch or lunch, this special frittata has a combination of crab and Swiss cheese that my guests rave about. I also like to use sausage and cheddar cheese with asparagus. —Deborah Posey, Virginia Beach, Virginia
Nutrition Facts:
1 wedge: 215 calories, 13g fat (4g saturated fat), 361mg cholesterol, 265mg sodium, 3g carbohydrate (2g sugars, 1g fiber), 21g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 3 lean meat, 1-1/2 fat.
18/25
Beef, Potato & Egg Bake
Total Time
1 hour 10 min
Servings
12 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
To keep my family going strong throughout the day, I start with lean ground beef and spices, then sneak some spinach into this protein-packed dish. —Jennifer Fisher, Austin, Texas
Nutrition Facts:
1 piece: 218 calories, 11g fat (5g saturated fat), 250mg cholesterol, 489mg sodium, 9g carbohydrate (2g sugars, 1g fiber), 20g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 3 lean meat, 1/2 starch.
19/25
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.
20/25
Turkey Spaghetti Casserole
Total Time
1 hour 45 min
Servings
6 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
My mom made this creamy and comforting dish while I was growing up. Whenever I have leftover chicken or turkey, I look forward to making this simple yet tasty meal. —Casandra Hetrick, Lindsey, Ohio
Nutrition Facts:
1 cup: 284 calories, 6g fat (3g saturated fat), 62mg cholesterol, 702mg sodium, 30g carbohydrate (4g sugars, 3g fiber), 26g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 3 lean meat, 1-1/2 starch, 1 vegetable, 1/2 fat.
21/25
Breakfast Casserole
Total Time
55 min
Servings
8 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
For the perfect combination of eggs, sausage, bread and cheese, this is the dish to try. My mom and I like this sausage breakfast casserole because it bakes up tender and golden, slices beautifully and goes over well whenever we serve it. —Gayle Grigg, Phoenix, Arizona
Nutrition Facts:
1 serving: 339 calories, 23g fat (9g saturated fat), 189mg cholesterol, 921mg sodium, 15g carbohydrate (4g sugars, 1g fiber), 18g protein.
22/25
Roasted Vegetable Strata
Total Time
1 hour 35 min
Servings
8 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
With the abundance of zucchini my family has in the fall, this is the perfect dish to use some of what we have. Cheesy and rich, the warm, classic breakfast dish is sure to please! —Colleen Doucette, Truro, Nova Scotia
Nutrition Facts:
1 piece: 349 calories, 14g fat (5g saturated fat), 154mg cholesterol, 642mg sodium, 40g carbohydrate (9g sugars, 4g fiber), 17g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 2 starch, 1 vegetable, 1 medium-fat meat, 1 fat.
23/25
Healthy Lasagna
Total Time
1 hour 55 min
Servings
12 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
I’ve never been quick to pass along my special recipes, but this one is so good that it’s become our family’s Christmas Eve tradition! —Michelle Behan, Littleton, Colorado
Nutrition Facts:
1 piece: 349 calories, 14g fat (7g saturated fat), 119mg cholesterol, 571mg sodium, 23g carbohydrate (9g sugars, 3g fiber), 30g protein.
24/25
Chicken-Stuffed Cubanelle Peppers
Total Time
1 hour 20 min
Servings
6 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
Here's a different take on traditional stuffed peppers. I substituted chicken for the beef and used Cubanelle peppers in place of the green peppers that are usually featured in such a dish. —Ron Burlingame, Canton, Ohio
Nutrition Facts:
1 stuffed pepper: 230 calories, 4g fat (1g saturated fat), 125mg cholesterol, 661mg sodium, 20g carbohydrate (7g sugars, 5g fiber), 26g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 3 lean meat, 2 vegetable, 1 starch.
25/25
Italian Hot Dish
Total Time
1 hour 10 min
Servings
4 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
My husband had a poor perception of healthy food until he tried this beefy casserole. The combination of pasta, oregano, mushrooms and green peppers makes it a favorite healthy pasta recipe in our house. —Theresa Smith, Sheboygan, Wisconsin
Nutrition Facts:
1 serving: 394 calories, 15g fat (6g saturated fat), 82mg cholesterol, 704mg sodium, 32g carbohydrate (5g sugars, 5g fiber), 34g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 3 lean meat, 2 starch, 2 vegetable, 1/2 fat.
