20 Delicious Cheap Casserole Recipes Budget-Friendly

Who says delicious has to be expensive? Dive into our roundup of 20 Delicious Cheap Casserole Recipes that promise to keep both your stomach and wallet full! Perfect for busy weeknights or cozy weekends, these budget-friendly dishes are all about comfort, simplicity, and flavor. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just craving some homestyle goodness, we’ve got a casserole for every occasion. Let’s get cooking!

Tuna Noodle Casserole

There’s something undeniably comforting about a classic Tuna Noodle Casserole, and this version is sure to become a weeknight favorite with its creamy texture and crispy topping.

Ingredients

• 8 oz egg noodles
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 cups milk
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 1/2 tsp dried thyme
• 2 (5 oz) cans tuna, drained
• 1 cup frozen peas
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 375°F and grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
2. Cook egg noodles according to package instructions until al dente; drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add onion and garlic, sautéing until soft, about 3 minutes.
4. Stir in flour and cook for 1 minute. Gradually whisk in milk and chicken broth, then add salt, pepper, and thyme. Cook until thickened, about 5 minutes.
5. Remove from heat and stir in tuna, peas, and cooked noodles. Transfer to the prepared baking dish.
6. Sprinkle with cheddar cheese and breadcrumbs. Bake for 20 minutes until bubbly and golden.

The secret to this casserole’s irresistible appeal lies in the perfect balance of creamy sauce and crunchy topping, making every bite a delightful contrast.

Tip: For an extra crispy top, broil the casserole for the last 2 minutes of baking.

Chicken and Rice Casserole

This Chicken and Rice Casserole is the ultimate comfort food, combining tender chicken, fluffy rice, and a creamy sauce all baked to perfection.

Ingredients

• 1.5 cups long-grain white rice
• 3 cups chicken broth
• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp onion powder
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1/4 tsp paprika

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F and grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
2. In a large bowl, combine the rice, chicken broth, heavy cream, cheddar cheese, Parmesan cheese, olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and paprika. Mix well.
3. Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and arrange the chicken pieces on top, pressing them slightly into the rice.
4. Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 45 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the chicken is cooked through.
5. Let the casserole stand for 5 minutes before serving to allow the sauce to thicken slightly.

The magic of this casserole lies in the creamy sauce that forms as it bakes, enveloping the chicken and rice in rich, cheesy goodness.

Tip: For a golden, crispy top, broil the casserole for the last 2-3 minutes of baking.

Beef and Potato Casserole

This Beef and Potato Casserole is the ultimate comfort food, combining hearty ingredients in one delicious bake that’s sure to please the whole family.

Ingredients

• 1 lb ground beef
• 4 cups peeled and diced potatoes
• 1 cup diced onion
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup sour cream
• 1/4 cup milk
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1/2 tsp paprika

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F and grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
2. In a large skillet over medium heat, heat the olive oil. Add the ground beef, onion, and garlic, cooking until the beef is browned and the onion is translucent, about 5-7 minutes. Drain any excess fat.
3. In the prepared baking dish, layer the diced potatoes, followed by the cooked beef mixture. Sprinkle with salt, black pepper, and paprika.
4. In a small bowl, mix together the sour cream and milk, then pour over the beef and potatoes. Top with shredded cheddar cheese.
5. Cover with foil and bake for 45 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and the cheese is bubbly and golden.

The magic of this casserole lies in the creamy sour cream layer that seeps into the potatoes, creating a rich and comforting texture that’s hard to resist.

Tip: For an extra crispy top, broil the casserole for the last 2-3 minutes of baking.

Vegetable Lasagna Casserole

This Vegetable Lasagna Casserole is a hearty, comforting dish that layers rich flavors and textures, perfect for a cozy family dinner.

Ingredients

• 9 lasagna noodles, uncooked
• 2 cups ricotta cheese
• 1 large egg
• 3 cups marinara sauce
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 small onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 zucchini, sliced
• 1 yellow squash, sliced
• 1 cup spinach leaves
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1 tsp dried basil

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 375°F. Cook lasagna noodles according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
2. In a bowl, mix ricotta cheese, egg, 1 tsp salt, 1/2 tsp black pepper, and 1 tsp dried basil until well combined.
3. Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a pan over medium heat. Add 1 small diced onion and 2 cloves minced garlic; sauté until soft, about 5 minutes.
4. Add sliced zucchini and yellow squash to the pan; cook for another 5 minutes until slightly tender. Stir in 1 cup spinach leaves until wilted.
5. Spread 1 cup marinara sauce at the bottom of a 9×13 inch baking dish. Layer 3 lasagna noodles, half the ricotta mixture, half the vegetable mixture, and 1 cup mozzarella cheese. Repeat layers, ending with noodles. Top with remaining 1 cup marinara sauce, 1 cup mozzarella, and 1 cup Parmesan cheese.
6. Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove foil and bake for another 10 minutes until cheese is bubbly and golden.

The layers of tender vegetables, creamy ricotta, and melted cheeses create a lasagna that’s both satisfying and packed with garden-fresh flavors.

Tip: Let the casserole sit for 10 minutes before slicing to ensure neat servings.

Macaroni and Cheese Casserole

Nothing says comfort like a creamy, cheesy macaroni and cheese casserole, baked to golden perfection. This version is a crowd-pleaser, with a crispy top that gives way to a velvety center.

Ingredients

• 8 oz elbow macaroni
• 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 2 cups whole milk
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1/2 tsp paprika
• 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F and grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
2. Cook the elbow macaroni according to package instructions until al dente, then drain and set aside.
3. In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Whisk in the flour, salt, black pepper, and paprika until smooth, about 1 minute.
4. Gradually add the milk, whisking constantly until the mixture thickens, about 5 minutes.
5. Remove from heat and stir in the cheddar and mozzarella cheeses until melted and smooth.
6. Combine the cheese sauce with the cooked macaroni, then pour into the prepared baking dish.
7. Sprinkle the panko breadcrumbs evenly over the top.
8. Bake for 25 minutes, or until the top is golden and the edges are bubbly.

The secret to this mac and cheese’s irresistible texture? A combination of sharp cheddar for depth and mozzarella for that perfect stretch.

Tip: For an extra crispy top, broil the casserole for the last 2 minutes of baking.

Broccoli Cheese Casserole

This Broccoli Cheese Casserole is the ultimate comfort food, combining tender broccoli with a creamy, cheesy sauce that’s baked to perfection.

Ingredients

• 4 cups fresh broccoli florets
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 cup mayonnaise
• 1/2 cup milk
• 1/2 cup crushed crackers
• 1 tablespoon butter, melted
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F and lightly grease a baking dish.
2. In a large bowl, mix together the broccoli florets, 1 1/2 cups of cheddar cheese, mayonnaise, milk, salt, and black pepper until well combined.
3. Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish and sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of cheddar cheese on top.
4. In a small bowl, mix the crushed crackers with the melted butter and sprinkle over the cheese layer.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly.

The cracker topping adds a delightful crunch to this creamy, cheesy casserole, making it a hit at any dinner table.

Tip: For an extra flavor boost, try adding a pinch of garlic powder to the cheese mixture before baking.

Spaghetti Casserole

This Spaghetti Casserole is the ultimate comfort food, combining hearty pasta with a rich, cheesy topping that’s sure to please the whole family.

Ingredients

• 8 oz spaghetti
• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 small onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 (24 oz) jar marinara sauce
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 tbsp olive oil

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F and grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with olive oil.
2. Cook spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente, then drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef with onion and garlic until the beef is no longer pink, about 5 minutes. Drain excess fat.
4. Stir in the marinara sauce, salt, black pepper, and dried oregano. Simmer for 5 minutes to blend the flavors.
5. Combine the cooked spaghetti with the meat sauce and spread evenly into the prepared baking dish.
6. Sprinkle the top with mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses.
7. Bake for 20 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.

The magic of this casserole lies in the crispy, cheesy crust that forms on top, contrasting beautifully with the tender pasta underneath.

Tip: For an extra crispy top, broil the casserole for the last 2-3 minutes of baking.

Eggplant Parmesan Casserole

Dive into the comforting layers of this Eggplant Parmesan Casserole, where crispy eggplant meets melted cheese in a dish that’s as satisfying to make as it is to eat.

Ingredients

• 2 large eggplants, sliced into 1/2-inch rounds
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 3 large eggs, beaten
• 2 cups Italian-style breadcrumbs
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 cups marinara sauce
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
• 2 tablespoons olive oil

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 375°F. Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with olive oil.
2. Season the eggplant slices with 1/2 teaspoon salt and 1/4 teaspoon black pepper. Dredge each slice in flour, dip in beaten eggs, then coat with a mixture of breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese.
3. Heat 2 tablespoons olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Fry the eggplant in batches until golden brown, about 3 minutes per side. Drain on paper towels.
4. Spread 1 cup marinara sauce in the bottom of the prepared dish. Layer half of the eggplant slices over the sauce, top with 1 cup mozzarella, and sprinkle with 1/2 teaspoon salt and 1/4 teaspoon black pepper. Repeat the layers with the remaining ingredients.
5. Bake for 25 minutes, until the cheese is bubbly and golden. Let stand for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh basil.

The secret to this casserole’s irresistible texture? Frying the eggplant before baking ensures each bite is perfectly crisp. Tip: For a lighter version, you can bake the breaded eggplant slices at 400°F for 20 minutes instead of frying.

Mexican Cornbread Casserole

This Mexican Cornbread Casserole is a hearty, flavorful dish that combines the sweetness of cornbread with the bold spices of Mexican cuisine, perfect for a cozy family dinner.

Ingredients

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 cup diced onion
• 1 cup diced bell pepper
• 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
• 1 cup corn kernels (fresh, frozen, or canned)
• 1 tbsp chili powder
• 1 tsp ground cumin
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 1 box (8.5 oz) cornbread mix
• 1/3 cup milk
• 1 egg
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 375°F. In a large skillet over medium heat, cook ground beef until browned. Add onion and bell pepper, cooking until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Stir in black beans, diced tomatoes, corn, 1 tbsp chili powder, 1 tsp ground cumin, 1/2 tsp salt, and 1/4 tsp black pepper. Simmer for 5 minutes, then transfer to a greased 9×13 inch baking dish.
3. In a bowl, prepare cornbread mix according to package instructions, using 1/3 cup milk and 1 egg. Pour over the beef mixture in the baking dish.
4. Sprinkle 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese on top. Bake at 375°F for 25 minutes, or until the cornbread is golden and a toothpick inserted comes out clean.

The contrast between the moist, spicy beef layer and the sweet, fluffy cornbread topping makes this casserole a standout dish that’s sure to please.

Tip: For an extra kick, add a diced jalapeño to the beef mixture or serve with a dollop of sour cream on top.

Chili Cheese Dog Casserole

Transform your game day spread into a cozy comfort food feast with this Chili Cheese Dog Casserole, a hearty twist on the classic ballpark favorite.

Ingredients

• 8 hot dogs
• 1 can (15 oz) chili, no beans
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 tube (8 oz) refrigerated crescent rolls
• 1/4 cup diced onions
• 1 tbsp mustard
• 1 tbsp ketchup

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F and lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
2. Unroll the crescent dough and press it into the bottom of the prepared dish, sealing any perforations.
3. Spread the mustard and ketchup evenly over the dough, then sprinkle the diced onions on top.
4. Arrange the hot dogs over the dough in a single layer, then pour the chili evenly over the hot dogs.
5. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the chili, covering it completely.
6. Bake for 25 minutes, or until the crust is golden and the cheese is bubbly.

The magic of this dish lies in the crescent roll crust, which soaks up the chili and cheese flavors while staying perfectly crisp on the edges.

Tip: For an extra kick, mix a teaspoon of chili powder into the chili before layering it over the hot dogs.

Shepherd’s Pie Casserole

Nothing says comfort food quite like a hearty Shepherd’s Pie Casserole, with its savory filling and fluffy mashed potato topping. It’s the perfect dish to warm up your weeknight dinner routine.

Ingredients

• 1 lb ground lamb
• 1 cup diced onions
• 1 cup diced carrots
• 1 cup frozen peas
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tbsp tomato paste
• 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1/2 tsp dried rosemary
• 4 cups mashed potatoes (prepared)
• 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F and lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
2. In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground lamb until browned, about 5 minutes. Drain excess fat.
3. Add the onions, carrots, peas, and garlic to the skillet. Cook for 5 minutes until vegetables begin to soften.
4. Stir in the tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, salt, pepper, and rosemary. Cook for another 2 minutes, then spread the mixture into the prepared baking dish.
5. Spread the mashed potatoes evenly over the lamb mixture. Sprinkle with cheddar cheese.
6. Bake for 25 minutes until the topping is golden and the edges are bubbly.

The secret to this Shepherd’s Pie Casserole is the Worcestershire sauce in the filling, which adds a deep, umami richness that complements the sweetness of the peas and carrots.

Tip: For a crispy potato topping, broil the casserole for the last 2-3 minutes of baking.

Green Bean Casserole

Nothing says comfort like a creamy, crunchy green bean casserole. This classic dish is a must-have at any gathering, and it’s easier to make than you might think!

Ingredients

• 1 can (10.5 oz) condensed cream of mushroom soup
• 1/2 cup milk
• 1 tsp soy sauce
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 4 cups cooked green beans (fresh, frozen, or canned)
• 1 1/3 cups French fried onions

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F and grease a 1 1/2-quart baking dish.
2. In a large bowl, mix the condensed cream of mushroom soup, milk, soy sauce, and black pepper until well combined.
3. Stir in the green beans and 2/3 cup of the French fried onions until everything is evenly coated.
4. Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and bake for 25 minutes.
5. Remove from the oven, sprinkle the remaining 2/3 cup French fried onions on top, and bake for another 5 minutes until the onions are golden and crispy.

The magic of this casserole lies in the contrast between the creamy green beans and the crispy onions, creating a texture that’s irresistibly satisfying.

Tip: For an extra crunch, toast the French fried onions in a dry skillet for a minute before sprinkling them on top.

Sweet Potato Casserole

This Sweet Potato Casserole is a cozy, comforting dish that brings a perfect balance of sweetness and spice to your table, making it a hit at any gathering.

Ingredients

• 3 large sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1/4 cup milk
• 2 large eggs
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
• 1 cup pecans, chopped
• 1/2 cup brown sugar
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter, softened

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F and grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
2. Boil the sweet potatoes in a large pot of water until tender, about 15 minutes. Drain and mash in a large bowl.
3. Stir in the melted butter, granulated sugar, milk, eggs, vanilla extract, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg until well combined. Spread the mixture into the prepared baking dish.
4. In a small bowl, mix together the pecans, brown sugar, flour, and softened butter until crumbly. Sprinkle evenly over the sweet potato mixture.
5. Bake for 25 minutes, or until the topping is golden and crispy.

The crunchy pecan topping contrasts beautifully with the creamy sweet potato base, creating a dish that’s as pleasing to the palate as it is to the eye.

Tip: For an extra touch of warmth, add a pinch of ground cloves to the sweet potato mixture before baking.

Zucchini and Tomato Casserole

This Zucchini and Tomato Casserole is a vibrant, veggie-packed dish that brings the garden to your table with minimal fuss and maximum flavor.

Ingredients

• 2 medium zucchinis, sliced into 1/4-inch rounds
• 3 large tomatoes, sliced into 1/4-inch rounds
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp dried basil
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F and lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with olive oil.
2. Arrange the zucchini and tomato slices in alternating layers in the prepared dish, slightly overlapping for a beautiful presentation.
3. Drizzle the layers with 2 tbsp olive oil, then sprinkle evenly with 1 tsp garlic powder, 1 tsp dried basil, 1/2 tsp salt, and 1/4 tsp black pepper.
4. Top with 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese and 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese.
5. Bake at 375°F for 25 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.

The magic of this casserole lies in the way the zucchini and tomatoes meld together under a blanket of cheese, creating a dish that’s as comforting as it is colorful.

Tip: For an extra crispy top, broil the casserole for the last 2-3 minutes of baking.

Pasta Bake Casserole

This Pasta Bake Casserole is the ultimate comfort food, combining creamy cheese, hearty pasta, and a crispy top that everyone will love.

Ingredients

• 12 oz penne pasta
• 2 cups marinara sauce
• 1 cup ricotta cheese
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp dried basil
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F and grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with the olive oil.
2. Cook the penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente, then drain and return to the pot.
3. Stir in the marinara sauce, ricotta cheese, 1 cup of mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, dried basil, salt, and black pepper until well combined.
4. Transfer the pasta mixture to the prepared baking dish and sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of mozzarella cheese on top.
5. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.

The magic of this dish lies in the layers of cheese that create a gooey center and a crispy, golden top. It’s a crowd-pleaser that’s as fun to make as it is to eat.

Tip: For an extra crispy top, broil the casserole for the last 2-3 minutes of baking.

Corn and Black Bean Casserole

This Corn and Black Bean Casserole is a hearty, flavorful dish that brings a little spice and a lot of comfort to your table. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a potluck, it’s sure to be a hit with its vibrant colors and satisfying textures.

Ingredients

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 red bell pepper, diced
• 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 can (15 oz) corn kernels, drained
• 1 can (10 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup sour cream
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F and lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion, garlic, and red bell pepper, cooking until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Stir in the black beans, corn, diced tomatoes with green chilies, ground cumin, chili powder, and salt. Cook for another 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
4. Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top.
5. Bake for 20 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and lightly golden.
6. Remove from the oven and let it cool for 5 minutes. Dollop with sour cream and sprinkle with chopped cilantro before serving.

The combination of creamy sour cream, sharp cheddar, and fresh cilantro on top of the spicy, hearty base makes every bite a delightful contrast of flavors and textures.

Tip: For an extra kick, add a diced jalapeño to the skillet with the onions and peppers.

Chicken Alfredo Casserole

This Chicken Alfredo Casserole is the ultimate comfort food, combining creamy Alfredo sauce with tender chicken and pasta for a dish that’s sure to please.

Ingredients

• 2 cups uncooked penne pasta
• 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
• 1 (15 oz) jar Alfredo sauce
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp onion powder
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 1 tbsp olive oil

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F and grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with the olive oil.
2. Cook the penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente, then drain and set aside.
3. In a large bowl, mix the cooked pasta, shredded chicken, Alfredo sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper until well combined.
4. Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish and sprinkle the top evenly with mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses.
5. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.

The magic of this casserole lies in the crispy cheese topping that contrasts beautifully with the creamy Alfredo sauce beneath. It’s a texture lover’s dream!

Tip: For an extra crispy top, broil the casserole for the last 2-3 minutes of baking.

Pumpkin and Sage Casserole

This Pumpkin and Sage Casserole is a cozy, flavorful dish that brings the essence of autumn to your table with minimal fuss.

Ingredients

• 1 small sugar pumpkin (about 2 lbs), peeled and cubed
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tbsp fresh sage, finely chopped
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 cup breadcrumbs

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F and lightly grease a casserole dish.
2. In a large bowl, toss the pumpkin cubes with olive oil, fresh sage, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper until evenly coated.
3. Spread the pumpkin mixture in the prepared casserole dish and bake for 20 minutes, or until the pumpkin starts to soften.
4. Pour the heavy cream over the pumpkin and sprinkle with Parmesan cheese and breadcrumbs.
5. Return to the oven and bake for another 15 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly.

The magic of this dish lies in the creamy texture of the pumpkin paired with the crispy, cheesy topping—a contrast that’s sure to delight.

Tip: For an extra crispy top, broil the casserole for the last 2 minutes of baking.

Rice and Bean Casserole

Warm up your kitchen with this hearty Rice and Bean Casserole, a comforting dish that’s as nutritious as it is delicious.

Ingredients

• 1 cup long-grain white rice
• 2 cups water
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 bell pepper, diced
• 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F and lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
2. In a medium saucepan, bring the water to a boil. Add the rice, reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 18 minutes until the rice is tender.
3. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the onion, garlic, and bell pepper, cooking for 5 minutes until softened.
4. Stir in the black beans, diced tomatoes, cumin, chili powder, salt, and black pepper. Cook for another 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
5. Combine the cooked rice and the bean mixture in the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle the cheddar cheese evenly over the top.
6. Bake for 20 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and lightly golden.
7. Garnish with chopped cilantro before serving.

The magic of this casserole lies in the perfect harmony of spices and the creamy texture of melted cheese atop a hearty base. It’s a crowd-pleaser that brings a little fiesta to your dinner table.

Tip: For an extra kick, add a diced jalapeño to the skillet with the onions and peppers.

Lentil and Vegetable Casserole

Warm up your kitchen with this hearty Lentil and Vegetable Casserole, a comforting dish that’s as nutritious as it is delicious.

Ingredients

• 1 cup dried green lentils, rinsed
• 2 cups vegetable broth
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 2 carrots, diced
• 2 celery stalks, diced
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F and lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine the lentils and vegetable broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 20 minutes until the lentils are tender but still hold their shape.
3. While the lentils cook, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the onion, carrots, and celery, cooking for 5 minutes until softened. Stir in the garlic, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper, cooking for another minute until fragrant.
4. Add the diced tomatoes and cooked lentils to the skillet, stirring to combine. Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish and sprinkle the mozzarella cheese evenly over the top.
5. Bake for 20 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and lightly golden. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

The smoked paprika and cumin give this casserole a depth of flavor that pairs wonderfully with the creamy mozzarella topping, making it a standout dish for any gathering.

Tip: For an extra crunch, sprinkle some breadcrumbs mixed with a little olive oil over the cheese before baking.

Conclusion

We hope this roundup of 20 delicious, budget-friendly casserole recipes inspires your next meal! Perfect for home cooks looking to save without sacrificing flavor, these dishes are sure to please. Don’t forget to try them out, share your favorites in the comments, and pin this article on Pinterest for your next cooking adventure. Happy cooking!

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