Comfort food at its finest! There’s something special about a warm, hearty Italian casserole on a chilly day. The combination of savory meats, rich cheeses, and al dente pasta or vegetables is sure to hit the spot. In this collection of 18 delicious Italian casseroles, we’ve got everything from classic sausage and pepper combinations to creamy lasagna and innovative twists like roasted red peppers and goat cheese. Whether you’re a fan of meatballs, sautéed mushrooms, or sun-dried tomatoes, there’s something for everyone in these satisfying, comforting recipes.
Let us transport you to the Tuscan countryside with our first recipe, Classic Italian Sausage and Peppers Casserole, featuring sweet Italian sausage, colorful bell peppers, and a blend of melted mozzarella and parmesan cheese. Or, if you’re craving something rich and creamy, try our Creamy Four-Cheese Lasagna Casserole. With so many options to choose from, your taste buds are in for a treat!
Read on to discover more mouthwatering Italian casseroles that will become new family favorites.
Classic Italian Sausage and Peppers Casserole
This hearty casserole combines sweet bell peppers with savory Italian sausage, onions, and pasta in a rich tomato sauce. A perfect comfort food for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound Italian sausage, casings removed
– 2 large onions, chopped
– 4 large bell peppers (any color), sliced
– 8 oz penne pasta
– 2 cups marinara sauce
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Olive oil for greasing the baking dish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook pasta according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, cook sausage over medium-high heat until browned, breaking up with a spoon as it cooks.
4. Add onions and bell peppers to the skillet; cook until vegetables are tender.
5. Combine cooked pasta, sausage mixture, marinara sauce, mozzarella cheese, and Parmesan cheese in a 9×13-inch baking dish.
6. Grease the dish with olive oil and cover with aluminum foil.
7. Bake for 30 minutes, then remove foil and bake an additional 10-15 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Creamy Four-Cheese Lasagna Casserole
This rich and creamy casserole is a twist on the classic lasagna, featuring four different types of cheese and a velvety sauce. Perfect for a cozy night in or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 8 lasagna noodles
– 1 cup ricotta cheese
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh basil leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook lasagna noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, combine crushed tomatoes, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer over medium heat.
4. In a separate bowl, combine ricotta cheese, mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, and feta cheese. Mix well.
5. Assemble the casserole by spreading tomato sauce in the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish, followed by layers of noodles, cheese mixture, and shredded mozzarella cheese. Repeat two more times, finishing with a layer of cheese on top.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until golden brown and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Eggplant Parmesan Bake with Mozzarella
This classic Italian-American dish is a staple for any occasion. With tender eggplant slices, rich tomato sauce, and melted mozzarella cheese, this recipe is sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 2 large eggplants, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– 1 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 cup tomato sauce
– 8 oz fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil leaves, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a shallow dish, mix together breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese.
3. Dip each eggplant slice into the breadcrumb mixture, coating both sides evenly.
4. Place coated eggplant slices on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
5. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
6. Spread tomato sauce over the cooked eggplant slices.
7. Top with mozzarella cheese slices.
8. Return to oven for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
9. Garnish with chopped fresh basil leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 40-50 minutes
Chicken Alfredo Zucchini Casserole
This comforting casserole combines the rich flavors of chicken alfredo with the sweetness of zucchini and a crispy topping. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 medium zucchinis, sliced
– 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tsp dried basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook chicken, zucchini, and butter in a large skillet until the chicken is cooked through.
3. In a separate pot, combine flour and heavy cream. Bring to a simmer over medium heat.
4. Add Parmesan cheese, basil, salt, and pepper to the cream mixture. Stir until combined.
5. In a 9×13-inch baking dish, layer the cooked chicken and zucchini mixture, followed by the cream sauce, and finally the shredded mozzarella cheese.
6. Top with breadcrumbs and bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Shells Bake
A classic Italian-inspired casserole filled with tender shells, creamy ricotta, and nutritious spinach.
Ingredients:
– 12-15 jumbo pasta shells
– 1 package frozen chopped spinach, thawed and drained
– 16 oz ricotta cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 egg, beaten
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook shells according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a medium bowl, combine spinach, ricotta, Parmesan, and egg. Mix well.
4. Stuff each shell with the spinach-ricotta mixture, placing them in a 9×13-inch baking dish as you go.
5. Drizzle olive oil over the shells, then sprinkle mozzarella cheese evenly.
6. Cover dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes.
7. Remove foil and continue baking for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Meatball and Polenta Casserole
A hearty and comforting casserole that combines the flavors of tender meatballs with creamy polenta and rich tomato sauce. Perfect for a chilly evening or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 1 cup polenta
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh basil leaves, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper. Mix well with your hands until just combined.
3. Form into meatballs and place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until cooked through.
4. Cook polenta according to package instructions. Stir in chicken broth and olive oil.
5. In a 9×13-inch baking dish, spread half of the polenta mixture. Arrange meatballs on top.
6. Pour crushed tomatoes over the meatballs. Top with remaining polenta mixture.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until hot and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 40-50 minutes
Pesto Chicken and Sun-Dried Tomato Casserole
This creamy and flavorful casserole combines the richness of pesto with the brightness of sun-dried tomatoes, all wrapped up in a satisfying chicken dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 1/2 cup pesto sauce
– 1 cup cooked penne pasta
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped sun-dried tomatoes
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook pasta according to package instructions; set aside.
3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-6 minutes per side.
4. In a separate bowl, combine pesto sauce, cooked pasta, and sun-dried tomatoes. Mix well to combine.
5. In a 9×13 inch baking dish, arrange the cooked chicken in an even layer. Top with the pesto-pasta mixture, followed by mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 45 minutes
Baked Ziti with Italian Sausage
A hearty, comforting casserole perfect for a chilly evening or a crowd-pleasing dinner party.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound Italian sausage, casings removed
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup ziti pasta
– 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 1 cup grated mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 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. Cook ziti pasta according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, cook Italian sausage over medium-high heat until browned, breaking apart with a spoon as it cooks.
4. Add chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet; cook until onion is translucent.
5. Combine cooked ziti, sausage mixture, crushed tomatoes, mozzarella cheese, and Parmesan cheese in a 9×13-inch baking dish.
6. Drizzle olive oil over the top and season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Tuscan White Bean and Kale Casserole
This hearty casserole combines the comforting flavors of Italy with the nutritional benefits of kale, making it a perfect weeknight dinner solution. With its creamy white beans and crispy breadcrumbs on top, this dish is sure to please even the pickiest eaters.
Ingredients:
– 1 (15 oz) can cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
– 2 cups curly kale, stems removed and chopped
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large skillet, sauté onion and garlic until softened. Add kale and cook until wilted.
3. In a separate bowl, mix beans, Parmesan cheese, and breadcrumbs.
4. Combine the cooked kale mixture with the bean mixture and stir well.
5. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
6. Pour chicken broth into the dish and top with additional Parmesan cheese if desired.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Spaghetti Pie with Garlic Bread Crust
Elevate your pasta game with this creative twist on classic spaghetti: a savory pie filled with spaghetti, meat sauce, and melted mozzarella. The crispy garlic bread crust adds an extra layer of flavor and texture.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound spaghetti
– 1 cup ground beef
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup marinara sauce
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced (for crust)
– 1 loaf Italian bread, cubed
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. Cook spaghetti according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, cook ground beef, onion, and garlic until browned. Add marinara sauce and simmer for 5 minutes.
4. Combine cooked spaghetti, meat sauce, and mozzarella cheese in a bowl.
5. Prepare crust by mixing minced garlic with olive oil. Spread on bread cubes and bake at 350°F for 10-12 minutes or until crispy.
6. Pour spaghetti mixture into a 9×13 inch baking dish. Top with Parmesan cheese and crust.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Artichoke and Spinach Tortellini Bake
A creamy, cheesy casserole that combines the flavors of artichoke hearts, spinach, and tender tortellini.
Ingredients:
– 1 (14 oz) package cheese-filled tortellini
– 2 cups frozen chopped spinach, thawed and drained
– 1 cup artichoke hearts, canned or fresh, chopped
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook tortellini according to package instructions; set aside.
3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened.
4. Stir in spinach, artichoke hearts, salt, and pepper. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until heated through.
5. In a large bowl, combine cooked tortellini, spinach-artichoke mixture, cheddar cheese, and Parmesan cheese.
6. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish; cover with aluminum foil.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until hot and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Italian Sausage and Mushroom Risotto Casserole
Italian Sausage and Mushroom Risotto Casserole Recipe
This hearty casserole combines the rich flavors of Italian sausage, sautéed mushrooms, and creamy risotto with a crispy breadcrumb topping. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound sweet Italian sausage, casings removed
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 4 cups cooked white rice (cooked according to package instructions)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook the Italian sausage in a large skillet over medium-high heat, breaking apart with a spoon as it cooks.
3. Add mushrooms, onion, and garlic to the skillet; cook until the vegetables are tender.
4. Stir in cooked rice, chicken broth, Parmesan cheese, thyme, salt, and pepper.
5. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish.
6. Top with breadcrumbs and drizzle with olive oil.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the top is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Chicken Cacciatore Casserole with Olives
A hearty, flavorful casserole that combines the classic Italian dish with the comforting ease of a one-dish meal. This Chicken Cacciatore Casserole with Olives is perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed olives, pitted
– 1 cup mushrooms (button or cremini), sliced
– 1 cup canned crushed tomatoes
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 8 oz penne pasta
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook penne pasta according to package directions; set aside.
3. In a large skillet, sauté chicken, onion, and garlic until the chicken is cooked through.
4. Add mushrooms, olives, crushed tomatoes, oregano, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Simmer for 5 minutes.
5. Combine cooked pasta and cacciatore mixture in a 9×13 inch baking dish.
6. Top with mozzarella cheese and bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Three-Cheese Ravioli Bake
A creamy, cheesy twist on a classic comfort food, this Three-Cheese Ravioli Bake is perfect for a cozy night in. With store-bought ravioli and a blend of melted mozzarella, Parmesan, and ricotta cheese, it’s easy to prepare and sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 package frozen three-cheese ravioli
– 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup ricotta cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook ravioli according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add cooked ravioli and stir until coated with oil.
4. In a separate bowl, combine mozzarella, Parmesan, and ricotta cheese. Stir until well combined.
5. Add the cheese mixture to the ravioli and stir until coated.
6. Transfer the ravioli mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish. Sprinkle with parsley and season with salt and pepper.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Roasted Red Pepper and Goat Cheese Lasagna
Roasted Red Pepper and Goat Cheese Lasagna Recipe
Summary:
This recipe combines the sweetness of roasted red peppers with the tanginess of goat cheese, layered between fresh pasta sheets for a unique and flavorful lasagna.
Ingredients:
– 8-10 lasagna noodles
– 2 large red bell peppers
– 1/4 cup goat cheese (chèvre), crumbled
– 1 cup grated mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Olive oil, for brushing
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Roast the red peppers: Place the peppers on a baking sheet, drizzle with olive oil, and season with salt and pepper. Roast for 30-40 minutes or until the skin is blistered and charred.
3. Prepare the cheese mixture: In a bowl, combine the crumbled goat cheese and grated mozzarella cheese.
4. Assemble the lasagna: Cook the pasta noodles according to package instructions. Brush a 9×13-inch baking dish with olive oil. Arrange a layer of noodles, followed by a layer of roasted peppers, then a layer of the cheese mixture. Repeat this process until all ingredients are used, finishing with a layer of cheese on top.
5. Bake and serve: Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes. Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 10-15 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Prosciutto and Asparagus Pasta Casserole
This creamy casserole combines the sweetness of asparagus with the salty, savory flavor of prosciutto and a hint of parmesan cheese. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion, this recipe is sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz pasta (such as pappardelle or fettuccine)
– 1 lb fresh asparagus, trimmed
– 6 slices prosciutto, chopped
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, sauté asparagus in butter until tender. Add prosciutto and cook for an additional minute.
4. In a separate pot, combine heavy cream and parmesan cheese. Heat over medium heat until melted and smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Combine cooked pasta, asparagus mixture, and creamy sauce in a 9×13 inch baking dish. Top with additional parmesan cheese if desired.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Caprese Chicken and Orzo Bake
Elevate your dinner game with this easy-to-make, flavorful Caprese-inspired dish that combines juicy chicken, creamy mozzarella, and nutty orzo in a satisfying casserole.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1 cup orzo pasta
– 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
– 8 ounces fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil leaves, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook orzo according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.
4. In the same skillet, add garlic and cook for 1 minute. Add cherry tomatoes and cook until they release their juices and start to soften, about 3-4 minutes.
5. In a large bowl, combine cooked orzo, chicken, tomato mixture, and mozzarella cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Garlic Butter Shrimp and Farro Casserole
This casserole is a perfect combination of succulent shrimp, nutty farro, and savory garlic butter. It’s an easy and impressive dish to serve for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1 cup farro
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook farro according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium-high heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
4. Add shrimp and cook until pink and just done, about 2-3 minutes per side.
5. In a separate bowl, combine cooked farro, chicken broth, and Parmesan cheese. Stir to combine.
6. In a large casserole dish, arrange the shrimp mixture, followed by the farro mixture.
7. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until the casserole is golden brown and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Summary
Get ready to indulge in a taste of Italy with these 18 hearty casserole recipes! From classic sausage and peppers to creamy lasagna and stuffed shells, there’s something for every comfort food lover. These satisfying dishes are perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or cozy nights in. With a variety of ingredients like mozzarella, ricotta, and parmesan cheese, you’ll find inspiration for any occasion. Treat your taste buds to a culinary journey through Italy with these comforting casserole recipes.
