Are you tired of breaking the bank on every meal? Look no further! Casseroles are a budget-friendly way to feed your family without sacrificing taste or quality. In this article, we’ll explore 18 easy and affordable casserole recipes that won’t blow your budget. From classic comfort food to international twists, these casseroles are sure to become new favorites.
Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a satisfying weekend meal, these recipes have got you covered. And the best part? They’re all easy on the wallet, making them perfect for families, students, and anyone else looking to stretch their food budget.
In the following pages, we’ll dive into each of these delicious casserole recipes, providing step-by-step instructions and helpful tips along the way. From Tuna Noodle Casserole with Creamy Mushroom Sauce to Spinach and Feta Casserole, there’s something for everyone on this list.
Tuna Noodle Casserole with Creamy Mushroom Sauce
A comforting and flavorful casserole that combines the richness of tuna, noodles, and creamy mushroom sauce. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or weekend lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 (12 oz) can of tuna in water, drained
– 8 oz egg noodles
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 onion, chopped
– 1 cup cream of mushroom soup
– 1/2 cup milk
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Cook egg noodles according to package instructions; set aside.
3. In a large skillet, sauté mushrooms and onion in butter until tender.
4. In a separate bowl, combine tuna, cream of mushroom soup, milk, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
5. Combine cooked noodles, mushroom mixture, and tuna mixture in a 9×13 inch baking dish.
6. Top with shredded cheddar cheese.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until casserole is hot and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Cheesy Chicken and Rice Casserole
This comforting casserole is a classic comfort food recipe that combines the flavors of chicken, rice, and cheese for a satisfying meal. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this dish is sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 cups cooked white rice
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1/4 cup butter, melted
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine chicken, rice, cheese, milk, and melted butter. Mix well.
3. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish.
4. Sprinkle thyme and salt and pepper to taste on top of the casserole.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until hot and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Ground Beef and Potato Casserole
A hearty, comforting casserole that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 2 medium potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
– 1 onion, chopped
– 1 cup frozen peas and carrots
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 2 tbsp butter
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large skillet, cook ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking into small pieces as it cooks.
3. Add chopped onion and cook until softened.
4. Stir in frozen peas and carrots, salt, and pepper.
5. In a separate pot, boil sliced potatoes until tender. Drain and set aside.
6. Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with butter.
7. Layer cooked ground beef mixture, potatoes, and shredded cheese in that order.
8. Pour in milk and dot top with butter.
9. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until hot and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Vegetable and Bean Casserole
A hearty, plant-based casserole that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend lunch. This flavorful dish is packed with sautéed vegetables, creamy beans, and a crispy cornbread topping.
Ingredients:
– 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables (such as peas, carrots, and corn)
– 2 medium zucchinis, sliced
– 1 medium bell pepper, diced
– 1 small onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup cornbread mix
– 1/4 cup water
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, sauté zucchini, bell pepper, onion, and garlic until tender.
3. Add black beans, mixed vegetables, and cornbread mix to the skillet. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
4. Pour mixture into a 9×13-inch baking dish.
5. Mix water and olive oil in a bowl. Pour over casserole.
6. Top with cornbread mix and water. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Broccoli and Cheese Casserole
A comforting and flavorful casserole that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering. This recipe combines the nutrients of broccoli with the richness of cheddar cheese, all wrapped up in a crispy breadcrumb topping.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh broccoli florets
– 2 cups grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 cup breadcrumbs
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, steam broccoli until tender.
3. In a separate bowl, mix cheddar cheese, milk, and melted butter.
4. In a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, arrange steamed broccoli in an even layer.
5. Pour the cheese mixture over the broccoli, followed by sprinkling breadcrumbs on top.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Eggplant and Tomato Casserole
This hearty casserole combines the flavors of roasted eggplant and fresh tomatoes with a crispy breadcrumb topping, perfect for a weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 2 large eggplants, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– 3 large tomatoes, diced
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil leaves, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Toss eggplant slices with olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast for 30 minutes or until tender.
3. In a large skillet, sauté onion and garlic until softened. Add diced tomatoes and cook until they release their juices and start to caramelize, about 10-12 minutes.
4. In a separate bowl, mix breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese.
5. To assemble the casserole, layer roasted eggplant, tomato mixture, and breadcrumb topping in a 9×13-inch baking dish.
6. Bake for an additional 20-25 minutes or until golden brown on top.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Mexican Cornbread Casserole
This casserole combines the flavors of traditional cornbread with the bold spices and textures of Mexico, resulting in a unique and mouthwatering dish perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup yellow cornmeal
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1 large egg
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies
– 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together cornmeal, flour, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a separate bowl, combine milk, egg, and melted butter.
4. Add wet ingredients to dry ingredients and stir until just combined.
5. Fold in diced tomatoes with green chilies, cheese, cilantro, and jalapeño pepper.
6. Pour mixture into a 9×13-inch baking dish and bake for 35-40 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Spaghetti Squash and Sausage Casserole
A hearty and flavorful casserole that combines the natural sweetness of spaghetti squash with savory sausage and melted cheese.
Ingredients:
– 2 medium spaghetti squash, cooked and shredded
– 1 pound sweet Italian sausage, casings removed
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup marinara sauce
– 1/2 cup grated mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook sausage in a large skillet, breaking up with a spoon as it cooks.
3. Add chopped onion and minced garlic; cook until onion is translucent.
4. Stir in marinara sauce; bring to a simmer.
5. In a separate bowl, combine cooked squash, mozzarella cheese, and Parmesan cheese.
6. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray.
7. Layer the casserole: sausage mixture, then squash mixture.
8. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Lentil and Rice Casserole
This comforting casserole is a perfect blend of protein-rich lentils, flavorful rice, and savory spices. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup brown or green lentils, rinsed and drained
– 2 cups cooked white rice
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, sauté onion, garlic, and red bell pepper until tender.
3. Add lentils, cooked rice, diced tomatoes, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir well.
4. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish.
5. Top with shredded cheese (if using).
6. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until the casserole is hot and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Chicken and Stuffing Casserole
A comforting, one-dish wonder that combines the flavors of chicken, stuffing, and vegetables in a rich, savory sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 cups stale white bread, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup frozen peas and carrots
– 1 cup cream of chicken soup
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1 teaspoon poultry seasoning
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons butter
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a large skillet, sauté the chicken, onion, and garlic until the chicken is cooked through.
3. Add the bread, peas and carrots, cream of chicken soup, milk, poultry seasoning, salt, and pepper. Stir until the bread is evenly coated.
4. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish and dot with butter.
5. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until the casserole is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Black Bean and Corn Casserole
This flavorful casserole combines the richness of black beans with the sweetness of corn, all wrapped up in a creamy sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked black beans
– 1 cup frozen corn kernels
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup cream
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 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. Add the onion and garlic; cook until the onion is translucent.
3. Stir in the black beans, corn kernels, salt, and pepper. Cook for 2-3 minutes.
4. In a separate bowl, combine the cheddar cheese and cream. Stir until smooth.
5. In a 9×13 inch baking dish, arrange half of the bean and corn mixture. Top with half of the cheese mixture. Repeat the layers.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the casserole is hot and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Zucchini and Ground Turkey Casserole
A delicious and healthy twist on traditional casserole recipes, this dish combines the flavors of zucchini and ground turkey with a crunchy breadcrumb topping. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground turkey
– 2 medium zucchinis, sliced
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large skillet, cook ground turkey over medium-high heat until browned, breaking up with spoon as it cooks.
3. Add sliced zucchinis, onion, garlic, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Cook until vegetables are tender.
4. In a separate bowl, mix breadcrumbs and cheese.
5. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and add turkey-zucchini mixture. Top with breadcrumb mixture.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Macaroni and Cheese Casserole with Hot Dogs
A comforting twist on a classic macaroni and cheese recipe, this casserole adds the nostalgia of hot dogs to create a satisfying and easy meal.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz macaroni
– 2 cups milk
– 2 cups grated cheddar cheese
– 1 cup grated mozzarella cheese
– 4 hot dogs, sliced
– 1/2 cup butter, melted
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 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 mixing bowl, combine milk, cheddar cheese, mozzarella cheese, and melted butter. Stir until smooth.
4. Add cooked macaroni, sliced hot dogs, paprika, salt, and pepper to the cheese mixture. Mix well.
5. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish and top with additional grated cheese if desired.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown and bubbly.
7. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Sweet Potato and Chickpea Casserole
A hearty, plant-based casserole that combines the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes with the nutty flavor of chickpeas. Perfect for a comforting side dish or main course.
Ingredients:
– 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1 can chickpeas (15 oz), drained and rinsed
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup vegetable broth
– 1/4 cup maple syrup
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, sauté onion and garlic until softened.
3. Add sweet potatoes, chickpeas, vegetable broth, maple syrup, olive oil, cumin, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20 minutes or until sweet potatoes are tender.
4. Transfer mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish. Top with shredded cheese (if using).
5. Bake for an additional 15-20 minutes or until the casserole is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Pasta and Tuna Casserole with Peas
A classic comfort food dish that’s easy to prepare and packed with protein and fiber. This recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend lunch.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz pasta of your choice
– 1 can (5 oz) tuna in water, drained and flaked
– 1 cup frozen peas
– 1 cup milk
– 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup butter, melted
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. Cook pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large mixing bowl, combine tuna, peas, milk, and cheese. Stir until well combined.
4. Add cooked pasta to the mixture and stir until coated.
5. Pour the mixture into a 9×13 inch baking dish.
6. Drizzle melted butter over the top.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until hot and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Green Bean and Hamburger Casserole
A classic comfort food recipe that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering. This casserole combines the flavors of green beans, ground beef, and pasta in a creamy sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup frozen green beans, thawed
– 1 cup cooked macaroni
– 1 can (10.5 oz) condensed cream of mushroom soup
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. Cook pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, cook ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking into small pieces as it cooks.
4. Add onion and garlic to the skillet and cook until the onion is translucent.
5. Stir in green beans, cream of mushroom soup, milk, and oregano. Bring mixture to a simmer.
6. In a 9×13 inch baking dish, combine cooked pasta, ground beef mixture, and shredded cheese.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the casserole is hot and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Spinach and Feta Casserole
This creamy casserole combines the richness of feta cheese with the nutritious goodness of spinach, perfect for a comforting weeknight dinner or a special occasion. With its simple preparation and flavorful ingredients, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 package frozen chopped spinach, thawed and drained
– 1 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg, beaten
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
3. Add spinach to the skillet and cook until wilted, about 3-4 minutes. Season with salt and pepper.
4. In a separate bowl, mix feta and cheddar cheese.
5. In a 9×13 inch baking dish, create a layer of spinach mixture, followed by a layer of cheese mixture, repeating twice.
6. Top the final layer of cheese with breadcrumbs and beaten egg.
7. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Tomato and Bread Casserole with Herbs
This hearty casserole combines the sweetness of fresh tomatoes, the warmth of toasted bread, and the brightness of herbs. Perfect for a cozy dinner or brunch, this recipe is easy to prepare and packed with flavor.
Ingredients:
– 3 cups mixed bread, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 2 large tomatoes, diced
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh rosemary
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
3. Add diced tomatoes and cook until they start to release their juices, about 5 minutes.
4. In a separate bowl, toss bread cubes with rosemary, thyme, salt, and pepper.
5. In a 9×13-inch baking dish, create a layer of bread mixture followed by a layer of tomato mixture. Repeat for two more layers, finishing with a bread layer on top.
6. If using Parmesan cheese, sprinkle it over the top layer.
7. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Summary
Get ready to delight your taste buds without breaking the bank! This article features 18 easy and affordable casserole recipes that are perfect for budget-friendly meals. From classic comfort food like Tuna Noodle Casserole with Creamy Mushroom Sauce and Cheesy Chicken and Rice Casserole, to hearty options like Ground Beef and Potato Casserole and Lentil and Rice Casserole, there’s something for everyone. These mouthwatering dishes are all easy on the wallet and packed with flavor. Try them out tonight!