As the temperatures rise and the days grow longer, there’s nothing quite like a refreshing summer casserole to satisfy your cravings. Gone are the hearty stews and comforting casseroles of winter; in their place, we have a new crop of light, flavorful dishes that showcase the best of summer’s bounty.
From classic combinations like zucchini and corn to more adventurous pairings like peach and pork chop, these 18 refreshing summer casserole recipes are sure to delight. Whether you’re looking for a quick and easy weeknight dinner or a show-stopping centerpiece for your next barbecue or potluck, we’ve got you covered.
In the following pages, we’ll explore the world of summer casseroles, highlighting the freshest flavors and most creative combinations that will keep you cool all season long. So go ahead, fire up the oven, and get ready to savor the taste of summer!
Zucchini and Corn Summer Casserole
Beat the heat with this refreshing summer casserole that combines the flavors of zucchini, corn, and melted cheese. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a potluck gathering.
Ingredients:
– 2 medium zucchinis, sliced
– 1 cup frozen corn kernels, thawed
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup breadcrumbs
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high. Add zucchini slices and cook until tender, about 3-4 minutes per side.
3. In a separate bowl, combine corn kernels, milk, salt, and pepper. Stir well.
4. In a 9×13-inch baking dish, arrange cooked zucchini slices in an even layer.
5. Top with the corn mixture, then sprinkle shredded cheese evenly.
6. Sprinkle breadcrumbs over the top.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the casserole is golden brown and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Tomato Basil Chicken Casserole
A classic comfort food dish that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion, this casserole combines the flavors of juicy chicken, sweet tomatoes, and fresh basil in a creamy sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
– 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup cooked pasta (such as penne or fusilli)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large skillet, cook chicken over medium-high heat until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
3. In a separate bowl, combine diced tomatoes, basil, cheddar cheese, heavy cream, oregano, salt, and pepper.
4. In a 9×13-inch baking dish, arrange pasta in an even layer. Top with chicken, then pour tomato-basil mixture over the top.
5. Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes.
6. Remove foil and continue baking for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until casserole is hot and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Lemon Garlic Shrimp and Rice Casserole
A flavorful and comforting casserole that combines succulent shrimp with creamy lemon garlic sauce, served over a bed of fluffy rice. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 cups cooked white rice
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 tablespoon butter
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (bell peppers, carrots, green beans)
– 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, sauté garlic and shrimp in butter until pink.
3. Add mixed vegetables and cook until tender.
4. Stir in lemon juice and cooked rice.
5. Transfer mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish.
6. Top with cheddar cheese and bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Summer Squash and Sausage Bake
This hearty summer squash and sausage bake is a perfect way to enjoy the flavors of the season. With minimal prep work, this dish comes together quickly and is sure to please even the pickiest eaters.
Ingredients:
– 2 medium-sized yellow summer squash, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– 1 pound sweet Italian sausage, casings removed
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large skillet, cook sausage over medium-high heat until browned, breaking into small pieces as it cooks.
3. Add sliced summer squash, chopped onion, and minced garlic to the skillet. Cook for an additional 5-7 minutes or until squash is tender.
4. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish. Top with shredded cheddar cheese.
5. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
6. Sprinkle chopped parsley on top (if using) and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Mediterranean Vegetable Casserole
A hearty and flavorful casserole that combines the rich flavors of the Mediterranean with tender vegetables, creamy cheese, and crispy crust.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked brown rice
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 red bell pepper, sliced
– 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced
– 1 small eggplant, sliced
– 1 zucchini, sliced
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large bowl, combine cooked rice, diced tomatoes, bell peppers, eggplant, zucchini, feta cheese, and Parmesan cheese. Mix well.
3. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish and drizzle with olive oil.
4. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until the vegetables are tender and the top is golden brown.
5. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Cheesy Broccoli and Cauliflower Summer Bake
A delicious summer twist on a classic casserole, this recipe combines the flavors of broccoli and cauliflower with melted cheese and a crispy breadcrumb topping.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of broccoli, florets only
– 1 head of cauliflower, florets only
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup grated mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss broccoli and cauliflower with olive oil, salt, and pepper until well coated.
3. In a separate bowl, combine cheddar and mozzarella cheese.
4. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray.
5. Add the broccoli-cauliflower mixture to the baking dish, followed by the cheesy topping.
6. Sprinkle breadcrumbs over the top.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Peach and Pork Chop Casserole
This sweet and savory casserole combines tender pork chops with juicy peaches and a crunchy biscuit topping for a delicious twist on traditional comfort food. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion, this recipe is sure to please even the pickiest eaters.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound pork chops
– 2 cups sliced fresh peaches
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 cup biscuit mix
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– 1 egg, beaten
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Season pork chops with salt and pepper.
3. In a separate pan, cook pork chops over medium-high heat until browned, about 5 minutes per side. Set aside.
4. In a large mixing bowl, combine peaches, brown sugar, and olive oil. Toss to coat.
5. In a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, arrange cooked pork chops in a single layer. Top with peach mixture.
6. In a small bowl, mix biscuit mix, heavy cream, and beaten egg. Spread evenly over casserole.
7. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until internal temperature of pork reaches 145°F (63°C).
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Caprese Pasta Casserole
This casserole combines the flavors of Italy’s famous Caprese salad with the comfort of pasta, resulting in a creamy and satisfying dish perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta (such as penne or rigatoni)
– 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1 cup fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp dried basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, combine cherry tomatoes, olive oil, garlic, and basil. Cook over medium heat for 5-7 minutes or until the tomatoes release their juices.
4. In a separate bowl, combine cooked pasta, tomato mixture, and mozzarella cheese.
5. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and top with Parmesan cheese.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Black Bean and Quinoa Summer Casserole
This vibrant casserole combines the nutty flavor of quinoa with the rich, earthy taste of black beans, all wrapped up in a refreshing summer package. Perfect for a light and satisfying dinner or potluck contribution.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked black beans
– 1 cup cooked quinoa
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 small onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup shredded reduced-fat cheddar cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large bowl, combine black beans, quinoa, red bell pepper, onion, and garlic.
3. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with cumin; season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish.
5. If using cheese, sprinkle on top of the casserole.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until heated through.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Spinach and Artichoke Chicken Casserole
A creamy, cheesy casserole that combines the flavors of spinach, artichokes, and chicken for a delicious weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 1 (14 oz) can artichoke hearts, drained and chopped
– 1 package frozen spinach, thawed and drained
– 1 cup cream of mushroom soup
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup frozen peas and carrots
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a large skillet, cook chicken until browned; set aside.
3. In a separate bowl, mix together cream of mushroom soup, mayonnaise, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
4. Combine cooked chicken, chopped artichoke hearts, spinach, peas and carrots, and cheese mixture in a 9×13 inch baking dish.
5. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until casserole is hot and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Grilled Vegetable and Mozzarella Casserole
Grilled Vegetable and Mozzarella Casserole: A flavorful and healthy twist on traditional casseroles, this dish combines the smoky sweetness of grilled vegetables with the creaminess of mozzarella cheese.
Ingredients:
– 1 red bell pepper, sliced
– 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced
– 1 zucchini, sliced
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 8 oz mozzarella cheese, shredded
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. Grill the bell peppers and zucchini for 3-4 minutes per side, or until tender.
3. In a large bowl, combine the grilled vegetables, cherry tomatoes, mozzarella cheese, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Toss to combine.
4. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
5. Garnish with fresh basil leaves and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Lemon Herb Salmon and Potato Bake
Lemon Herb Salmon and Potato Bake: A Bright and Flavorful Dish
This recipe combines the richness of salmon with the brightness of lemon and herbs, all wrapped up in a delicious potato bake. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 2 large potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
– 1/4 cup freshly chopped parsley
– 2 tbsp freshly chopped dill
– 2 lemons, juiced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
3. Arrange potato slices in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet.
4. Drizzle with olive oil, sprinkle with salt and pepper, and toss to coat.
5. Place salmon fillets on top of potatoes.
6. Mix lemon juice, parsley, dill, garlic, and a pinch of salt and pepper.
7. Spoon the herb mixture over the salmon.
8. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until salmon is cooked through and potatoes are tender.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Summer Ratatouille Casserole
A classic French vegetable stew gets a refreshing twist with this Summer Ratatouille Casserole, perfect for warm weather gatherings. This easy-to-make dish combines the flavors of roasted vegetables, creamy cheese, and crispy breadcrumbs.
Ingredients:
– 1 large eggplant, sliced
– 2 large zucchinis, sliced
– 1 red bell pepper, sliced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 1 small onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add eggplant, zucchinis, bell pepper, onion, and garlic. Cook until vegetables are tender, about 10-12 minutes.
3. Stir in diced tomatoes, thyme, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer and let cook for 5 minutes.
4. In a separate bowl, mix cheese and breadcrumbs.
5. Transfer the vegetable mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish. Top with the cheese-breadcrumb mixture.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
BBQ Pulled Pork and Sweet Potato Casserole
This hearty casserole combines the rich flavors of slow-cooked pulled pork with the comforting warmth of sweet potatoes. Perfect for a cozy night in or a crowd-pleasing gathering, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs boneless pork shoulder
– 1/4 cup BBQ sauce
– 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Slow cook the pork shoulder in BBQ sauce for 8 hours or overnight.
3. In a separate pot, boil the sweet potatoes until tender. Drain and set aside.
4. In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked sweet potatoes, chopped onion, minced garlic, shredded cheese, and heavy cream. Mix well.
5. Add the slow-cooked pulled pork to the sweet potato mixture and stir until combined.
6. Transfer the casserole to a 9×13 inch baking dish and bake for 30-40 minutes or until the casserole is golden brown.
Cooking Time: Approximately 2 hours (including slow cooking time)
Greek Orzo and Feta Casserole
A hearty and flavorful casserole that combines the comforting warmth of orzo pasta with the tanginess of feta cheese, perfect for a cozy evening meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup orzo pasta
– 2 cups water
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook orzo according to package instructions using 2 cups water. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Add minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked orzo, feta cheese, Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper. Stir until well combined.
5. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish and top with chopped parsley (if using).
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the casserole is lightly golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Pesto Chicken and Zucchini Bake
This recipe combines the flavors of pesto, chicken, and zucchini for a quick and satisfying meal. With just a few ingredients and simple preparation, you can have a flavorful and nutritious dinner on the table in under an hour.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 2 medium zucchinis, sliced
– 1/4 cup pesto
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together pesto, olive oil, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Add chicken breasts to the bowl and coat evenly with the pesto mixture.
4. Arrange zucchini slices in a single layer on a baking sheet.
5. Place the chicken breasts on top of the zucchini.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until chicken is cooked through.
7. Sprinkle with mozzarella cheese (if using) and return to oven for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until melted.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Southwest Chicken and Cornbread Casserole
This casserole combines the flavors of the Southwest with the warmth of cornbread, making it a perfect dish for a chilly evening or a casual gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups cooked chicken breast, diced
– 1 cup frozen corn kernels
– 1 cup cream-style corn
– 1 can (14.5 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1 tsp chili powder
– 1/2 tsp paprika
– 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper
– 1 cup cornbread mix
– 1/2 cup milk
– 2 tbsp melted butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large bowl, combine chicken, corn kernels, cream-style corn, black beans, cumin, chili powder, paprika, and cayenne pepper. Mix well.
3. Prepare cornbread mix according to package instructions. Add milk and melted butter; mix until combined.
4. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. Layer the chicken mixture, followed by the cornbread mixture.
5. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until the casserole is golden brown and the cornbread is set.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Balsamic Glazed Chicken and Veggie Casserole
Elevate your weeknight dinner routine with this sweet and savory casserole, featuring tender chicken, caramelized vegetables, and a rich balsamic glaze.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 large onion, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups mixed vegetables (such as bell peppers, zucchini, and mushrooms)
– 1 cup balsamic glaze (or 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar + 2 tbsp honey)
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8 oz pasta of your choice
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add sliced onion and minced garlic. Cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
4. Add mixed vegetables to the skillet and cook until tender, about 5-7 minutes.
5. In a large bowl, combine cooked chicken, vegetable mixture, balsamic glaze, thyme, salt, and pepper. Toss to coat.
6. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish and top with pasta of your choice.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until hot and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Summary
Beat the heat with these refreshing summer casserole recipes! From zucchini and corn to peach and pork chop, there’s something for everyone. Try the Mediterranean Vegetable Casserole for a flavorful twist on traditional veggie dishes. Or go for the Cheesy Broccoli and Cauliflower Summer Bake for a comforting side dish. If seafood is your thing, the Lemon Garlic Shrimp and Rice Casserole is a must-try. With over 18 recipes to choose from, you’ll be spoiled for choice this summer.