Our Top 10 Most Saved Casserole Recipes: Comfort Food Classics You’ll Love

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Our Top 10 Most Saved Casserole Recipes: Comfort Food Classics You’ll Love

Casseroles: the ultimate comfort food, weeknight dinner savior, and potluck superstar. They’re easy to assemble, endlessly customizable, and always a crowd-pleaser. But with so many casserole recipes out there, how do you choose the best? Look no further! We’ve compiled our top 10 most saved casserole recipes, based on your clicks, shares, and rave reviews. These are the tried-and-true dishes that you keep coming back to, the ones that earn you compliments every time, and the recipes that will become staples in your kitchen. So, grab your favorite casserole dish and get ready to dive into a world of cheesy, creamy, and utterly delicious goodness!

Why Casseroles are a Kitchen Staple

Before we jump into the recipes, let’s talk about why casseroles are so beloved. Here are a few key reasons:

* **Convenience:** Casseroles are incredibly convenient. You can often prep them ahead of time, making them perfect for busy weeknights. Just assemble everything, pop it in the oven when you’re ready to eat, and dinner is served.
* **Versatility:** The possibilities are endless! You can customize casseroles with your favorite meats, vegetables, cheeses, and sauces. They’re a great way to use up leftover ingredients and create something new and exciting.
* **Comfort Food Factor:** There’s just something inherently comforting about a warm, cheesy casserole. They’re perfect for chilly evenings or when you need a little pick-me-up.
* **Crowd-Pleasing:** Casseroles are always a hit at potlucks, family gatherings, and holiday meals. They’re easy to transport and serve, and everyone loves them.
* **Budget-Friendly:** Many casserole recipes are budget-friendly, especially if you use seasonal vegetables or cheaper cuts of meat.

Now, without further ado, let’s get to our top 10 most saved casserole recipes:

1. Creamy Chicken and Rice Casserole

This classic comfort food is a perennial favorite for a reason. It’s creamy, cheesy, and packed with tender chicken and fluffy rice. It’s easy to make and always a crowd-pleaser.

**Ingredients:**

* 1 tablespoon olive oil
* 1 onion, chopped
* 2 cloves garlic, minced
* 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
* 1 (10.75 ounce) can condensed cream of mushroom soup
* 1 (10.75 ounce) can condensed cream of chicken soup
* 1 cup milk
* 1 cup cooked rice
* 1/2 cup frozen peas
* 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese
* Salt and pepper to taste

**Instructions:**

1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C).
2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add onion and garlic and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add chicken and cook until browned on all sides. Season with salt and pepper.
4. In a large bowl, combine cream of mushroom soup, cream of chicken soup, and milk.
5. Stir in cooked rice, frozen peas, and chicken mixture.
6. Pour mixture into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish.
7. Sprinkle with cheddar cheese.
8. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until golden brown and bubbly.
9. Let stand for 10 minutes before serving.

**Tips and Variations:**

* Use rotisserie chicken for a shortcut.
* Add other vegetables like carrots, celery, or broccoli.
* Substitute wild rice or brown rice for white rice.
* Top with breadcrumbs for a crispy crust.
* Add a dash of hot sauce for a little kick.

2. Tater Tot Casserole

This kid-friendly casserole is always a hit. It’s simple, satisfying, and loaded with crispy tater tots. It’s perfect for a quick and easy weeknight dinner.

**Ingredients:**

* 1 pound ground beef
* 1 onion, chopped
* 1 (10.75 ounce) can condensed cream of mushroom soup
* 1 cup milk
* 1 teaspoon garlic powder
* 1/2 teaspoon salt
* 1/4 teaspoon pepper
* 1 (32 ounce) bag frozen tater tots
* 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

**Instructions:**

1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C).
2. In a large skillet, brown ground beef over medium heat. Drain off any excess grease.
3. Add onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
4. Stir in cream of mushroom soup, milk, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
5. Pour mixture into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish.
6. Arrange tater tots in a single layer over the meat mixture.
7. Sprinkle with cheddar cheese.
8. Bake for 30-40 minutes, or until tater tots are golden brown and crispy.
9. Let stand for 5 minutes before serving.

**Tips and Variations:**

* Use ground turkey or sausage instead of ground beef.
* Add corn, green beans, or other vegetables.
* Top with bacon bits or sour cream.
* Use different types of cheese, like Monterey Jack or pepper jack.
* For a spicier version, add a can of diced tomatoes with green chilies.

3. Cheesy Tuna Noodle Casserole

This classic casserole is a budget-friendly and comforting meal. It’s made with canned tuna, egg noodles, creamy sauce, and lots of cheese. It’s a simple yet satisfying dish that’s perfect for any night of the week.

**Ingredients:**

* 1 (12 ounce) package egg noodles
* 2 (5 ounce) cans tuna, drained
* 1/2 cup butter
* 1/2 cup flour
* 3 cups milk
* 1 teaspoon salt
* 1/2 teaspoon pepper
* 1/4 teaspoon paprika
* 1 cup frozen peas
* 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese, divided
* 1/2 cup crushed potato chips (optional)

**Instructions:**

1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C).
2. Cook egg noodles according to package directions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Stir in flour and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
4. Gradually whisk in milk until smooth. Bring to a simmer, stirring constantly.
5. Reduce heat and simmer for 5 minutes, or until sauce has thickened.
6. Stir in salt, pepper, and paprika.
7. Remove from heat and stir in tuna, cooked noodles, peas, and 1/2 cup of cheddar cheese.
8. Pour mixture into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish.
9. Sprinkle with remaining cheddar cheese and crushed potato chips (if using).
10. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown and bubbly.
11. Let stand for 5 minutes before serving.

**Tips and Variations:**

* Add chopped celery or onion to the sauce.
* Use different types of cheese, like Gruyere or Swiss.
* Substitute cream of mushroom soup for part of the milk.
* Add a sprinkle of dried parsley for added flavor and color.
* Use whole wheat egg noodles for a healthier option.

4. Shepherd’s Pie Casserole

This hearty casserole is a delicious twist on the classic Shepherd’s Pie. It features a savory meat filling topped with a creamy mashed potato crust. It’s the ultimate comfort food on a cold night.

**Ingredients:**

* 1 tablespoon olive oil
* 1 onion, chopped
* 1 pound ground beef
* 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables
* 1 (14.5 ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
* 1 cup beef broth
* 1 teaspoon dried thyme
* 1/2 teaspoon salt
* 1/4 teaspoon pepper
* 4 cups mashed potatoes (prepared from scratch or instant)
* 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)

**Instructions:**

1. Preheat oven to 375 degrees F (190 degrees C).
2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon. Drain off any excess grease.
4. Stir in frozen mixed vegetables, diced tomatoes, beef broth, thyme, salt, and pepper.
5. Bring to a simmer and cook for 10 minutes, or until vegetables are tender.
6. Pour mixture into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish.
7. Spread mashed potatoes evenly over the meat mixture.
8. Sprinkle with cheddar cheese (if using).
9. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown and bubbly.
10. Let stand for 5 minutes before serving.

**Tips and Variations:**

* Use ground lamb instead of ground beef for a more traditional Shepherd’s Pie.
* Add a layer of shredded cheese between the meat and potatoes.
* Top with breadcrumbs for a crispy crust.
* Use sweet potatoes instead of white potatoes for the topping.
* Add a tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce to the meat filling for added flavor.

5. Baked Ziti Casserole

This Italian-inspired casserole is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. It’s made with ziti pasta, tomato sauce, ricotta cheese, and mozzarella cheese. It’s a hearty and satisfying dish that’s perfect for family gatherings.

**Ingredients:**

* 1 pound ziti pasta
* 1 pound ground beef or Italian sausage
* 1 onion, chopped
* 2 cloves garlic, minced
* 1 (28 ounce) can crushed tomatoes
* 1 (15 ounce) can tomato sauce
* 1 teaspoon dried oregano
* 1/2 teaspoon salt
* 1/4 teaspoon pepper
* 1 (15 ounce) container ricotta cheese
* 1 egg, lightly beaten
* 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
* 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
* 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

**Instructions:**

1. Preheat oven to 375 degrees F (190 degrees C).
2. Cook ziti pasta according to package directions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, brown ground beef or Italian sausage over medium heat. Drain off any excess grease.
4. Add onion and garlic and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
5. Stir in crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, oregano, salt, and pepper.
6. Bring to a simmer and cook for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
7. In a medium bowl, combine ricotta cheese, egg, and parsley.
8. In a large bowl, combine cooked ziti pasta, meat sauce, and ricotta cheese mixture.
9. Pour half of the mixture into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish.
10. Sprinkle with 1 cup of mozzarella cheese.
11. Top with remaining ziti mixture and remaining mozzarella cheese.
12. Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese.
13. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown and bubbly.
14. Let stand for 10 minutes before serving.

**Tips and Variations:**

* Add vegetables like mushrooms, peppers, or zucchini to the sauce.
* Use different types of cheese, like provolone or Asiago.
* Add a layer of spinach between the pasta and sauce.
* Substitute marinara sauce for crushed tomatoes and tomato sauce.
* For a spicier version, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce.

6. Green Bean Casserole

No holiday gathering is complete without this classic side dish. It’s made with green beans, creamy mushroom soup, and crispy fried onions. It’s a simple yet satisfying casserole that everyone loves.

**Ingredients:**

* 2 (14.5 ounce) cans cut green beans, drained
* 1 (10.75 ounce) can condensed cream of mushroom soup
* 1/2 cup milk
* 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
* 1 1/3 cups French fried onions, divided

**Instructions:**

1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C).
2. In a medium bowl, combine green beans, cream of mushroom soup, milk, pepper, and 2/3 cup French fried onions.
3. Pour mixture into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish.
4. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until heated through.
5. Top with remaining 2/3 cup French fried onions.
6. Bake for 5 minutes more, or until onions are golden brown.
7. Let stand for 5 minutes before serving.

**Tips and Variations:**

* Use fresh green beans instead of canned for a fresher flavor.
* Add sautéed mushrooms to the casserole.
* Top with bacon bits for added flavor.
* Use different types of creamed soup, like cream of celery or cream of chicken.
* For a homemade version, make your own cream sauce instead of using canned soup.

7. Breakfast Casserole

Start your day off right with this hearty and delicious breakfast casserole. It’s made with bread, eggs, cheese, and your favorite breakfast meats. It’s perfect for feeding a crowd or for meal prepping for the week.

**Ingredients:**

* 6 slices bread, cubed
* 1 pound breakfast sausage, cooked and crumbled
* 6 eggs
* 2 cups milk
* 1 teaspoon dry mustard
* 1/2 teaspoon salt
* 1/4 teaspoon pepper
* 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

**Instructions:**

1. Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
2. Spread bread cubes evenly in the bottom of the dish.
3. Sprinkle cooked sausage over the bread cubes.
4. In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, dry mustard, salt, and pepper.
5. Pour egg mixture over the bread and sausage.
6. Sprinkle with cheddar cheese.
7. Cover and refrigerate overnight.
8. Preheat oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C).
9. Bake uncovered for 45-50 minutes, or until golden brown and set.
10. Let stand for 10 minutes before serving.

**Tips and Variations:**

* Use croissants or brioche bread for a richer flavor.
* Add vegetables like mushrooms, peppers, or spinach.
* Use different types of cheese, like Monterey Jack or Gruyere.
* Add ham, bacon, or chorizo instead of sausage.
* For a sweeter version, add a sprinkle of brown sugar and cinnamon.

8. Chicken Enchilada Casserole

This Mexican-inspired casserole is a fiesta in a dish! It’s made with tortillas, shredded chicken, cheese, and enchilada sauce. It’s a flavorful and satisfying meal that’s perfect for any occasion.

**Ingredients:**

* 1 tablespoon olive oil
* 1 onion, chopped
* 2 cloves garlic, minced
* 1 (10 ounce) can enchilada sauce, divided
* 1 (15 ounce) can black beans, rinsed and drained
* 1 (15 ounce) can corn, drained
* 2 cups shredded cooked chicken
* 8 (6 inch) corn tortillas
* 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided

**Instructions:**

1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C).
2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add onion and garlic and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Stir in 1/2 cup enchilada sauce, black beans, and corn.
4. Bring to a simmer and cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
5. In a medium bowl, combine chicken and bean mixture.
6. Spread a thin layer of enchilada sauce in the bottom of a greased 9×13 inch baking dish.
7. Dip each tortilla in enchilada sauce and place in the baking dish, overlapping as needed.
8. Spread half of the chicken mixture over the tortillas.
9. Sprinkle with 1 cup of cheddar cheese.
10. Repeat layers with remaining tortillas, chicken mixture, and cheddar cheese.
11. Pour remaining enchilada sauce over the top.
12. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until heated through and cheese is melted.
13. Let stand for 10 minutes before serving.

**Tips and Variations:**

* Add diced tomatoes or green chilies to the filling.
* Use different types of cheese, like Monterey Jack or pepper jack.
* Add sour cream or guacamole as a topping.
* Use rotisserie chicken for a shortcut.
* For a spicier version, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the filling.

9. Sweet Potato Casserole

This festive casserole is a holiday staple. It’s made with mashed sweet potatoes, butter, brown sugar, and a pecan streusel topping. It’s a sweet and savory dish that’s perfect for Thanksgiving or Christmas.

**Ingredients:**

* 4 cups cooked and mashed sweet potatoes
* 1/2 cup butter, melted
* 1/2 cup granulated sugar
* 1/4 cup milk
* 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
* 1/2 teaspoon salt

**Topping:**

* 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
* 1/2 cup packed brown sugar
* 1/4 cup butter, cold and cubed
* 1/2 cup chopped pecans

**Instructions:**

1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C).
2. In a large bowl, combine mashed sweet potatoes, melted butter, granulated sugar, milk, vanilla extract, and salt.
3. Pour mixture into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish.
4. In a medium bowl, combine flour, brown sugar, and cold butter. Cut in butter with a pastry blender or your fingers until mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
5. Stir in chopped pecans.
6. Sprinkle topping evenly over the sweet potato mixture.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown and bubbly.
8. Let stand for 10 minutes before serving.

**Tips and Variations:**

* Use canned sweet potatoes in syrup for a sweeter casserole.
* Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the sweet potato mixture.
* Substitute walnuts or almonds for pecans in the topping.
* Top with marshmallows for a classic sweet potato casserole.
* For a healthier version, use less sugar and butter.

10. Corn Casserole

This creamy and cheesy corn casserole is a simple yet satisfying side dish. It’s made with corn, creamed corn, sour cream, and cheddar cheese. It’s perfect for potlucks, barbecues, or any weeknight meal.

**Ingredients:**

* 1 (15 ounce) can corn, drained
* 1 (14.75 ounce) can creamed corn
* 1 cup sour cream
* 1/2 cup butter, melted
* 1 (8.5 ounce) package corn muffin mix
* 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

**Instructions:**

1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C).
2. In a large bowl, combine corn, creamed corn, sour cream, melted butter, and corn muffin mix.
3. Stir until well combined.
4. Stir in cheddar cheese.
5. Pour mixture into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish.
6. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until golden brown and set.
7. Let stand for 10 minutes before serving.

**Tips and Variations:**

* Add chopped jalapeños for a spicy kick.
* Use different types of cheese, like Monterey Jack or pepper jack.
* Add bacon bits for added flavor.
* Substitute Greek yogurt for sour cream for a healthier option.
* For a sweeter version, add a tablespoon of sugar to the batter.

Conclusion: Casseroles for Every Occasion

There you have it – our top 10 most saved casserole recipes! From creamy chicken and rice to cheesy tuna noodle to sweet potato perfection, there’s a casserole here for every taste and occasion. These recipes are tried, tested, and loved by our readers, so you can be confident that they’ll be a hit with your family and friends. So, get cooking and enjoy the comfort and convenience of these classic casserole recipes. Don’t forget to save your favorites and share them with your loved ones! Happy Casserole-ing!

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