Casseroles are a go-to for easy, filling meals that remind us of family gatherings and cozy evenings. These 17 casserole recipes take a step away from what you’d usually expect, mixing in new ingredients for a fresh twist. While they might make Grandma raise an eyebrow, each one is still about bringing a hearty and satisfying dish to the table.
Vegan Pasta Primavera
Vegan Pasta Primavera is a vibrant dish that takes about 30 minutes to create. It’s packed with fresh vegetables like bell peppers, carrots, and peas, all tossed with pasta in a light, herby sauce. The flavors are a mix of savory and slightly sweet, making it a delightful plant-based twist on a classic Italian dish.
Get the Recipe: Vegan Pasta Primavera
Chicken Marbella
Chicken Marbella is a sweet and savory casserole that’s ready in about 1 hour. It features chicken thighs marinated with prunes, olives, and capers. The unique combination of ingredients produces a dish with a balance of flavors that’s both elegant and satisfying.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Marbella
Almond, cranberry and sweet potato stuffing
Almond, cranberry, and sweet potato stuffing is a unique blend of nutty and tart flavors, ready in about an hour. Sweet potatoes provide a creamy base, while almonds add crunch and cranberries offer a hint of sweetness. This dish brings a festive twist to traditional stuffing, suitable for any holiday table.
Get the Recipe: Almond, cranberry and sweet potato stuffing
Quinoa with kabocha squash and chickpeas in green tahini sauce
Quinoa with kabocha squash and chickpeas in green tahini sauce is a wholesome meal that can be enjoyed in roughly 45 minutes. The nutty quinoa, sweet squash, and hearty chickpeas are perfectly complemented by a zesty green tahini sauce. It’s a nutritious and flavorful option for those seeking a hearty, plant-based meal.
Get the Recipe: Quinoa with kabocha squash and chickpeas in green tahini sauce
Roasted cauliflower in green herb sauce
Roasted cauliflower in green herb sauce is a dish that takes about 40 minutes to prepare. The cauliflower becomes tender and slightly nutty when roasted, then it’s drizzled with a vibrant, herby sauce. This recipe offers a fresh and flavorful way to enjoy a vegetable-centric dish.
Get the Recipe: Roasted cauliflower in green herb sauce
Baked Feta Pasta
Baked Feta Pasta is a creamy, tangy dish that takes about 35 minutes to make. The combination of melty feta cheese and cherry tomatoes creates a luscious sauce that coats the pasta. This dish has become popular for its simplicity and bold flavors.
Get the Recipe: Baked Feta Pasta
Mushroom leek pasta kugel
Mushroom leek pasta kugel is a savory, satisfying dish that’s typically ready in about 1 hour and 15 minutes. It combines earthy mushrooms and sweet leeks with pasta in a creamy sauce. This kugel is a twist on the traditional Jewish noodle casserole, offering a hearty and comforting meal.
Get the Recipe: Mushroom leek pasta kugel
Greek Vegetarian Moussaka
Greek Vegetarian Moussaka is a layered dish that requires about 1 hour and 30 minutes to prepare. It features slices of eggplant and potatoes, with a rich lentil sauce, topped with a creamy béchamel. The flavors are deep and complex, making it a hearty vegetarian option that doesn’t skimp on taste.
Get the Recipe: Greek Vegetarian Moussaka
Roasted cauliflower with tomatoes and capers
Roasted cauliflower with tomatoes and capers is a simple dish that takes about 30 minutes to make. Cauliflower florets are roasted until golden and then tossed with a tangy mixture of tomatoes and capers. The result is a side dish with a robust flavor that can complement any main course.
Get the Recipe: Roasted cauliflower with tomatoes and capers
Cheesy Cabbage Beef Casserole
Cheesy Cabbage Beef Casserole is a hearty meal that can be on the table within an hour. It combines ground beef and cabbage in a cheesy sauce, offering a savory and slightly sweet taste. This casserole is a low-carb, comforting dish that’s perfect for a filling dinner.
Get the Recipe: Cheesy Cabbage Beef Casserole
Brioche French Toast Casserole
Brioche French Toast Casserole is a decadent breakfast option that’s ready in about an hour. It features custard-soaked brioche topped with a sweet, crumbly streusel. The result is a warm, custardy center with a delightful crunch on top, perfect for a leisurely brunch.
Get the Recipe: Brioche French Toast Casserole
Lamb Shepherd’s Pie
Lamb Shepherd’s Pie is a comforting classic that takes about 1 hour and 30 minutes to prepare. Ground lamb is cooked with vegetables and topped with a layer of creamy mashed potatoes. The pie is then baked until the potatoes are golden, creating a warm and savory dish with a satisfying texture.
Get the Recipe: Lamb Shepherd’s Pie
Cheesy Crack Chicken Casserole
Cheesy Crack Chicken Casserole is a rich and addictive dish ready in about 45 minutes. It combines chicken, bacon, and cheese in a creamy sauce, topped with more cheese for a gooey finish. This casserole is a crowd-pleaser, known for its indulgent taste and comforting qualities.
Get the Recipe: Cheesy Crack Chicken Casserole
Chicken Dorito Casserole
Chicken Dorito Casserole is a fun and flavorful dish that can be prepared in about 45 minutes. It layers shredded chicken with cheese, sour cream, and crushed Doritos, creating a cheesy, crunchy texture. The casserole has a bold taste that’s a hit with both kids and adults.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Dorito Casserole
Sweet Potato Casserole
Sweet Potato Casserole is a sweet and savory delight that typically requires about 1 hour and 30 minutes to prepare. With a base of creamy mashed sweet potatoes and a crunchy pecan topping, it’s a traditional favorite with a rich, comforting taste. This casserole is often a hit during the holidays, but it’s enjoyable any time of year.
Get the Recipe: Sweet Potato Casserole
Cowboy Cornbread Casserole
Cowboy Cornbread Casserole combines hearty ingredients into a one-dish wonder in just about 30 minutes. Ground beef, beans, and cheese are layered with cornbread to create a satisfying, savory flavor profile. It’s a rustic, filling dish that’s sure to please a crowd with its down-home comfort.
Get the Recipe: Cowboy Cornbread Casserole
Tex Mex Casserole
Tex Mex Casserole is a zesty dish that’s ready in about 50 minutes. Black beans, corn, and cheese are layered with tortilla chips, creating a satisfying crunch with every bite. The blend of spices and flavors makes it a festive and comforting meal with a Tex-Mex kick.
Get the Recipe: Tex Mex Casserole