December, a month synonymous with twinkling lights, crackling fireplaces, and heartwarming gatherings, calls for comfort food that nourishes both body and soul. What better way to embrace the season than with a selection of delicious casseroles? Easy to prepare, endlessly customizable, and perfect for feeding a crowd (or enjoying leftovers!), casseroles are the unsung heroes of holiday cooking. This blog post explores a variety of delectable December casserole recipes, complete with detailed steps and instructions, ensuring your holiday meals are both stress-free and unforgettable.
**Why Casseroles are Perfect for December**
Before we dive into the recipes, let’s appreciate why casseroles are the ideal choice for December gatherings:
* **Make-Ahead Magic:** Casseroles can often be assembled ahead of time, freeing you up to focus on other holiday preparations. Simply assemble, refrigerate, and bake when needed.
* **Crowd-Pleasers:** They are designed to feed a group, making them perfect for potlucks, family dinners, and holiday parties.
* **Customizable:** Casseroles are incredibly versatile. You can easily adapt recipes to suit dietary restrictions, preferences, and the ingredients you have on hand.
* **Warm and Comforting:** The warm, bubbly texture and rich flavors of casseroles are inherently comforting, making them a welcome addition to any winter meal.
* **Economical:** Casseroles can be a budget-friendly way to feed a crowd, especially when incorporating seasonal vegetables and pantry staples.
**Essential Tips for Casserole Success**
Before embarking on your casserole journey, keep these essential tips in mind:
* **Proper Preparation:** Ensure all ingredients are cooked thoroughly before adding them to the casserole dish. This is especially important for meats and vegetables.
* **Even Distribution:** Distribute ingredients evenly throughout the casserole to ensure consistent cooking and flavor in every bite.
* **Cheese Placement:** If using cheese, consider layering it throughout the casserole as well as on top to create a melty, gooey texture from the inside out.
* **Baking Time and Temperature:** Follow the recipe’s baking instructions carefully. Overbaking can result in a dry casserole, while underbaking can leave ingredients uncooked.
* **Resting Time:** Allow the casserole to rest for a few minutes after baking before serving. This allows the flavors to meld together and the casserole to set properly.
* **Pan Size Matters:** Ensure you are using the correct size baking dish as specified in the recipe. Using the wrong size can affect baking time and the overall texture of the casserole.
**Recipe 1: Creamy Sausage and Wild Rice Casserole**
This savory casserole is a hearty and flavorful option for a holiday brunch or dinner. The combination of sausage, wild rice, and creamy sauce is both comforting and satisfying.
**Ingredients:**
* 1 pound Italian sausage, removed from casings
* 1 cup wild rice, cooked according to package directions
* 1 medium onion, chopped
* 2 cloves garlic, minced
* 8 ounces sliced mushrooms
* 1/2 cup chopped celery
* 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
* 3 cups chicken broth
* 1 cup heavy cream
* 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
* 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
* Salt and pepper to taste
* 1 tablespoon olive oil
* Optional: 1/2 cup cranberries for a festive touch
**Instructions:**
1. **Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).** Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
2. **Cook the sausage:** In a large skillet, brown the sausage over medium heat, breaking it up with a spoon. Drain off any excess grease and set the sausage aside.
3. **Sauté the vegetables:** In the same skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion, garlic, celery, and mushrooms and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes.
4. **Make the sauce:** Sprinkle the flour over the vegetables and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly. Gradually whisk in the chicken broth until smooth. Bring to a simmer, then reduce heat and cook for 5 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened slightly.
5. **Add the cream and cheese:** Stir in the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth.
6. **Combine the ingredients:** In a large bowl, combine the cooked sausage, wild rice, sautéed vegetables, and creamy sauce. Stir in the parsley and cranberries (if using). Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. **Assemble the casserole:** Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish.
8. **Bake:** Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and golden brown.
9. **Rest:** Let the casserole rest for 5-10 minutes before serving.
**Recipe 2: Cheesy Broccoli and Rice Casserole**
This classic casserole is a comforting and family-friendly option, perfect as a side dish or a light meal. The combination of broccoli, rice, and cheese is simply irresistible.
**Ingredients:**
* 2 cups cooked rice (white or brown)
* 2 cups frozen broccoli florets, thawed
* 1 (10.75 ounce) can condensed cream of mushroom soup
* 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
* 1/2 cup milk
* 1/4 cup chopped onion
* 1/4 cup butter, melted
* 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
* Salt and pepper to taste
* Optional: 1/4 cup bread crumbs for topping
**Instructions:**
1. **Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).** Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
2. **Combine the ingredients:** In a large bowl, combine the cooked rice, thawed broccoli florets, cream of mushroom soup, cheddar cheese, milk, chopped onion, melted butter, and garlic powder. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. **Assemble the casserole:** Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish.
4. **Top with bread crumbs (optional):** If desired, sprinkle the bread crumbs evenly over the top of the casserole.
5. **Bake:** Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and the cheese is melted and golden brown.
6. **Rest:** Let the casserole rest for 5-10 minutes before serving.
**Recipe 3: Sweet Potato and Cranberry Casserole**
For a sweeter and more festive option, try this sweet potato and cranberry casserole. The combination of sweet potatoes, cranberries, and pecans creates a delightful balance of flavors and textures.
**Ingredients:**
* 4 cups cooked and mashed sweet potatoes
* 1 cup fresh or frozen cranberries
* 1/2 cup brown sugar
* 1/4 cup butter, melted
* 1/4 cup chopped pecans
* 1/4 cup orange juice
* 1 teaspoon cinnamon
* 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg
* Pinch of salt
* Optional topping: 1/4 cup rolled oats mixed with 2 tablespoons brown sugar and 1 tablespoon melted butter
**Instructions:**
1. **Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).** Grease a 8×8 inch baking dish.
2. **Combine the ingredients:** In a large bowl, combine the mashed sweet potatoes, cranberries, brown sugar, melted butter, pecans, orange juice, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Mix well.
3. **Assemble the casserole:** Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish.
4. **Prepare topping (optional):** In a small bowl, combine rolled oats, brown sugar and melted butter.
5. **Top with oatmeal mixture (optional):** Sprinkle the oatmeal mixture evenly over the top of the casserole.
6. **Bake:** Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the casserole is heated through and the topping is golden brown (if used).
7. **Rest:** Let the casserole rest for 5-10 minutes before serving.
**Recipe 4: Turkey and Stuffing Casserole (Leftover Makeover!)**
Transform your Thanksgiving or Christmas leftovers into a comforting and flavorful casserole with this easy recipe. It’s a delicious way to give your turkey and stuffing a new life.
**Ingredients:**
* 4 cups cooked turkey, shredded or cubed
* 4 cups cooked stuffing
* 2 cups gravy (turkey or chicken)
* 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables, thawed
* 1/2 cup cranberry sauce
* Optional: 1/4 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or Swiss)
**Instructions:**
1. **Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).** Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
2. **Combine the ingredients:** In a large bowl, combine the cooked turkey, stuffing, gravy, mixed vegetables, and cranberry sauce. Mix well.
3. **Assemble the casserole:** Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish.
4. **Top with cheese (optional):** If desired, sprinkle the shredded cheese evenly over the top of the casserole.
5. **Bake:** Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the casserole is heated through and the cheese is melted (if used).
6. **Rest:** Let the casserole rest for 5-10 minutes before serving.
**Recipe 5: Ham and Scalloped Potato Casserole**
This rich and creamy casserole is a decadent and satisfying option for a special occasion. The combination of ham, potatoes, and creamy sauce is simply divine.
**Ingredients:**
* 6 cups peeled and thinly sliced potatoes (russet or Yukon gold)
* 2 cups cooked ham, diced
* 1 medium onion, chopped
* 1/4 cup butter
* 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
* 3 cups milk
* 1 teaspoon salt
* 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
* 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
* 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
**Instructions:**
1. **Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).** Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
2. **Sauté the onion:** In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. **Make the sauce:** Sprinkle the flour over the onion and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly. Gradually whisk in the milk until smooth. Bring to a simmer, then reduce heat and cook for 5 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened slightly. Season with salt, pepper, and nutmeg.
4. **Layer the ingredients:** In the prepared baking dish, layer half of the sliced potatoes, followed by half of the diced ham and half of the sauce. Repeat with the remaining potatoes, ham, and sauce.
5. **Top with cheese:** Sprinkle the shredded cheese evenly over the top of the casserole.
6. **Bake:** Bake for 50-60 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and the casserole is bubbly and golden brown.
7. **Rest:** Let the casserole rest for 10-15 minutes before serving.
**Recipe 6: Vegetarian Spinach and Artichoke Casserole**
For a delicious and healthy vegetarian option, try this spinach and artichoke casserole. It’s a flavorful blend of vegetables, cheese, and creamy sauce.
**Ingredients:**
* 1 (10 ounce) package frozen chopped spinach, thawed and squeezed dry
* 1 (14 ounce) can artichoke hearts, drained and chopped
* 1 cup ricotta cheese
* 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
* 1/4 cup mayonnaise
* 2 cloves garlic, minced
* 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
* Salt and pepper to taste
* Optional: Bread crumbs for topping
**Instructions:**
1. **Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).** Grease a 8×8 inch baking dish.
2. **Combine the ingredients:** In a large bowl, combine the thawed spinach, chopped artichoke hearts, ricotta cheese, Parmesan cheese, mayonnaise, minced garlic, and red pepper flakes (if using). Season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. **Assemble the casserole:** Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish.
4. **Top with breadcrumbs (optional):** Sprinkle bread crumbs evenly over the top.
5. **Bake:** Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the casserole is heated through and the top is lightly golden.
6. **Rest:** Let the casserole rest for 5-10 minutes before serving.
**Recipe 7: Corn and Chorizo Casserole**
Spice up your December with this flavorful corn and chorizo casserole! The smoky chorizo adds a delightful kick to the sweetness of the corn, making it a unique and satisfying dish.
**Ingredients:**
* 1 lb Mexican chorizo, removed from its casing
* 1 large onion, chopped
* 2 cloves garlic, minced
* 2 (15 oz) cans of corn, drained
* 1 (10 oz) can of diced tomatoes and green chiles, undrained (like Rotel)
* 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
* 1/2 cup sour cream
* 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
* Salt and pepper to taste
**Instructions:**
1. **Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).** Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
2. **Cook the chorizo:** In a large skillet, cook the chorizo over medium heat, breaking it up with a spoon until browned. Drain off any excess grease.
3. **Sauté the onion and garlic:** Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet with the chorizo. Cook until the onion is softened, about 5 minutes.
4. **Combine the ingredients:** In a large bowl, combine the cooked chorizo mixture, drained corn, diced tomatoes and green chiles, Monterey Jack cheese, sour cream, and chopped cilantro. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. **Assemble the casserole:** Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish.
6. **Bake:** Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the casserole is heated through and bubbly and the cheese is melted.
7. **Rest:** Let the casserole rest for 5-10 minutes before serving.
**Recipe 8: Green Bean Casserole from Scratch (Elevated Classic)**
Skip the canned soup and make a delicious green bean casserole from scratch! This version features fresh ingredients and a creamy, flavorful sauce.
**Ingredients:**
* 1.5 lbs fresh green beans, trimmed
* 4 tablespoons butter, divided
* 8 oz cremini mushrooms, sliced
* 1 medium onion, chopped
* 2 cloves garlic, minced
* 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
* 2 cups chicken broth
* 1 cup heavy cream
* 1/2 teaspoon salt
* 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
* Crispy fried onions (store-bought or homemade), for topping
**Instructions:**
1. **Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).** Lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
2. **Blanch the green beans:** Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the green beans and cook for 3-4 minutes, until bright green and slightly tender. Drain and set aside.
3. **Sauté the mushrooms and onion:** In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the sliced mushrooms and cook until softened and browned, about 8-10 minutes. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
4. **Sauté the onion and garlic:** In the same skillet, melt the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
5. **Make the sauce:** Sprinkle the flour over the onion and garlic and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly. Gradually whisk in the chicken broth until smooth. Bring to a simmer, then reduce heat and cook for 5 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened slightly. Stir in the heavy cream, salt, and pepper.
6. **Combine the ingredients:** Add the blanched green beans and sautéed mushrooms to the sauce. Stir to coat.
7. **Assemble the casserole:** Pour the green bean mixture into the prepared baking dish.
8. **Top with crispy fried onions:** Sprinkle the crispy fried onions evenly over the top of the casserole.
9. **Bake:** Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the casserole is heated through and the onions are golden brown.
10. **Rest:** Let the casserole rest for 5-10 minutes before serving.
**Recipe 9: Shepherd’s Pie Casserole (Winter Warmer)**
A hearty and comforting Shepherd’s Pie, made even easier as a casserole! This classic dish features a savory meat base topped with creamy mashed potatoes.
**Ingredients:**
* 1 lb ground beef or lamb
* 1 medium onion, chopped
* 2 cloves garlic, minced
* 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables
* 1 cup beef broth
* 2 tablespoons tomato paste
* 1 teaspoon dried thyme
* 1/2 teaspoon salt
* 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
* 4 cups mashed potatoes (homemade or store-bought)
* 2 tablespoons butter, melted (for potatoes)
* 1/4 cup milk or cream (for potatoes)
* Optional: Shredded cheese (cheddar or Parmesan) for topping
**Instructions:**
1. **Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).**
2. **Brown the meat:** In a large skillet, brown the ground beef or lamb over medium heat, breaking it up with a spoon. Drain off any excess grease.
3. **Sauté the onion and garlic:** Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet with the meat. Cook until the onion is softened, about 5 minutes.
4. **Add vegetables and sauce:** Stir in the frozen mixed vegetables, beef broth, tomato paste, thyme, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer, then reduce heat and cook for 10 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender and the sauce has thickened slightly.
5. **Prepare mashed potatoes:** If using store-bought mashed potatoes, warm them according to package directions. If making homemade, peel and boil potatoes until tender. Drain well and mash with melted butter and milk or cream until smooth and creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. **Assemble the casserole:** Pour the meat mixture into a 9×13 inch baking dish. Spread the mashed potatoes evenly over the meat mixture.
7. **Top with cheese (optional):** If desired, sprinkle shredded cheese over the mashed potatoes.
8. **Bake:** Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the mashed potatoes are lightly golden brown and the cheese is melted (if using).
9. **Rest:** Let the casserole rest for 5-10 minutes before serving.
**Recipe 10: Chicken Pot Pie Casserole (Easy Comfort)**
A simplified version of classic chicken pot pie, this casserole is packed with chicken, vegetables, and a creamy sauce, all topped with flaky biscuits.
**Ingredients:**
* 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or cubed
* 1 (10.75 ounce) can condensed cream of chicken soup
* 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables
* 1/2 cup milk
* 1/4 teaspoon salt
* 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
* 1 (16 ounce) can refrigerated biscuits
**Instructions:**
1. **Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).**
2. **Combine ingredients:** In a large bowl, combine the cooked chicken, cream of chicken soup, frozen mixed vegetables, milk, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
3. **Pour into dish:** Pour the chicken mixture into an ungreased 9×13 inch baking dish.
4. **Top with biscuits:** Arrange the biscuits evenly over the chicken mixture, slightly overlapping. You may need to cut the biscuits in half to fit.
5. **Bake:** Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the biscuits are golden brown and the filling is bubbly.
6. **Rest:** Let the casserole rest for 5-10 minutes before serving.
**Tips for Adapting These Recipes**
* **Dietary Restrictions:** Adapt these recipes to accommodate dietary restrictions. Use gluten-free flour, dairy-free milk, or vegetarian meat substitutes as needed.
* **Ingredient Substitutions:** Don’t be afraid to substitute ingredients based on what you have on hand or your personal preferences. For example, swap out cheddar cheese for mozzarella or use different vegetables.
* **Spice It Up:** Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for extra heat.
* **Fresh Herbs:** Enhance the flavor of your casseroles with fresh herbs like thyme, rosemary, or oregano.
* **Get Creative with Toppings:** Add a layer of bread crumbs, crushed crackers, or fried onions for extra texture and flavor.
**Serving Suggestions**
* **Salad:** Serve your casserole with a fresh green salad for a balanced meal.
* **Bread:** Offer warm bread or rolls to soak up the delicious sauces.
* **Side Dishes:** Complement your casserole with other side dishes like roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or cranberry sauce.
* **Wine Pairing:** Choose a wine that complements the flavors of your casserole. For example, a creamy casserole pairs well with a crisp white wine like Chardonnay, while a heartier casserole pairs well with a medium-bodied red wine like Pinot Noir.
**Storage Tips**
* **Refrigerating:** Store leftover casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
* **Freezing:** For longer storage, freeze the casserole in an airtight container for up to 2-3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
* **Reheating:** Reheat leftover casserole in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, or microwave individual portions.
**Conclusion**
This December, embrace the warmth and comfort of casseroles. With these delicious and easy-to-follow recipes, you’ll be able to create unforgettable holiday meals that will delight your family and friends. So gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to experience the magic of December casseroles! Happy cooking and happy holidays!