As a parent, finding recipes that please even the pickiest eaters can be a challenge. But what if we told you there’s a solution that’s not only delicious but also ridiculously easy to make? Enter: casserole heaven! These 18 kid-friendly casserole recipes are sure to become a staple in your household, with flavors ranging from classic comfort foods to fun twists on favorite dishes.
From cheesy taco casseroles to sweet potato masterpieces, we’ve got you covered. Whether you’re a busy parent looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a meal-prepper extraordinaire, these casserole recipes are sure to please even the most discerning young palates.
Cheesy Taco Casserole with Ground Beef
Elevate your taco Tuesday game with this hearty, comforting casserole that combines the flavors of ground beef, cheese, and tacos. This recipe is a crowd-pleaser for any occasion!
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 1 packet of taco seasoning
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies
– 8 oz macaroni
– 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
– 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. Cook ground beef in a large skillet over medium-high heat, breaking it up into small pieces. Drain excess fat.
3. Add diced onion and taco seasoning; cook until onion is translucent.
4. In a separate pot, boil macaroni until al dente. Drain and set aside.
5. Combine cooked macaroni, ground beef mixture, diced tomatoes with green chilies in a 9×13 inch baking dish.
6. Top with shredded cheese and chopped cilantro.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Chicken and Broccoli Rice Casserole
A hearty and comforting casserole that combines the flavors of chicken, broccoli, and rice, perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups uncooked white rice
– 3 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 4 cups broccoli florets
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook rice according to package instructions.
3. In a large skillet, sauté chicken, onion, and garlic until chicken is cooked through.
4. Add broccoli to the skillet and cook until tender.
5. In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked rice, chicken mixture, chicken broth, milk, thyme, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
6. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish and top with shredded cheese.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until casserole is hot and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Mac and Cheese Casserole with Hidden Veggies
A classic comfort food with a twist! This creamy macaroni and cheese casserole is packed with hidden veggies, making it a nutritious and delicious meal for the whole family.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz macaroni
– 2 cups mixed veggies (steamed broccoli, carrots, and bell peppers)
– 2 cups milk
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup grated mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup butter
– 1 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook macaroni according to package instructions.
3. In a separate pot, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour to create a roux. Gradually add milk, whisking continuously. Bring to a simmer and cook for 5 minutes or until thickened.
4. Stir in cheddar and mozzarella cheese until melted and smooth. Add paprika, salt, and pepper to taste.
5. Combine cooked macaroni and veggie mixture into the cheese sauce. Mix well.
6. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and top with additional grated cheese (optional).
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Pizza Pasta Casserole with Pepperoni
This hearty casserole combines the best of both worlds – pasta and pizza! A flavorful blend of spaghetti, tomato sauce, pepperoni, and melted mozzarella cheese, this dish is perfect for a family dinner or potluck.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound spaghetti
– 2 cups marinara sauce
– 12 slices pepperoni
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Cook spaghetti according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, combine marinara sauce and olive oil. Bring to a simmer over medium heat.
4. Add cooked spaghetti to the skillet and toss to coat with the sauce.
5. In a separate baking dish, arrange half of the spaghetti mixture followed by half of the pepperoni slices.
6. Sprinkle with half of the mozzarella cheese and Parmesan cheese.
7. Repeat the layers, ending with a layer of mozzarella cheese on top.
8. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
BBQ Chicken Sweet Potato Casserole
This BBQ chicken sweet potato casserole is a perfect blend of smoky, savory, and sweet flavors that will leave you wanting more. With only 7 ingredients, this dish is easy to prepare and can be served as a main course or a side dish.
Ingredients:
– 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and sliced into 1/4-inch rounds
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1 cup BBQ sauce
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro (optional)
– 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Line a 9×13-inch baking dish with parchment paper or aluminum foil, leaving some overhang for easy removal.
3. Arrange sweet potato slices in the prepared baking dish.
4. In a separate bowl, mix together chicken, BBQ sauce, brown sugar, and smoked paprika. Pour mixture over sweet potatoes.
5. Top with shredded cheese and chopped cilantro (if using).
6. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until sweet potatoes are tender and top is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Turkey and Stuffing Casserole
This comforting casserole combines the flavors of roasted turkey with a savory stuffing and melted cheese, perfect for a cozy family dinner or holiday meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups cooked turkey breast, diced
– 1 cup stale bread, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 2 tablespoons butter, melted
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon poultry seasoning
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large skillet, sauté the chopped onion and minced garlic until softened.
3. Add the melted butter, poultry seasoning, salt, and pepper to the skillet and stir to combine.
4. Stir in the bread cubes until they are evenly coated with the mixture.
5. In a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, arrange half of the bread mixture followed by the diced turkey, then top with the remaining bread mixture.
6. Sprinkle the shredded cheese over the top and bake for 30-40 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Ham and Cheese Potato Casserole
This comforting casserole combines tender potatoes, savory ham, and melted cheese for a satisfying side dish or main course. With its easy preparation and flavorful combination of ingredients, this recipe is perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 2 large potatoes, thinly sliced
– 1 cup diced cooked ham
– 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup milk
– 1 tablespoon butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine sliced potatoes, diced ham, cheddar cheese, Parmesan cheese, and salt and pepper to taste.
3. Pour in milk and melted butter; stir until potatoes are well coated.
4. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish and smooth out the top.
5. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until potatoes are tender and golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Tater Tot Breakfast Casserole
Start your day off right with a hearty breakfast casserole featuring crispy Tater Tots, scrambled eggs, and savory sausage.
Ingredients:
– 1 (32 oz) bag of Tater Tots
– 6 eggs
– 1 lb sweet Italian sausage, casings removed
– 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup milk
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. Cook the Tater Tots according to package instructions until crispy. Drain on paper towels.
3. In a large skillet, cook the sausage over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together eggs and milk. Add salt and pepper to taste.
5. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray. Layer the cooked Tater Tots, scrambled eggs, and sausage mixture in that order.
6. Top with shredded cheese and bake for 25-30 minutes or until the eggs are set and the cheese is melted.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Spaghetti Pie Casserole
This casserole combines the comfort of spaghetti with the ease of a pie, perfect for a family dinner or potluck. With its layers of pasta, sauce, and melted mozzarella, you’ll want to make it again and again.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 1 cup spaghetti
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 egg, beaten
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. Cook spaghetti according to package directions; drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, brown ground beef with onion and garlic until cooked through. Add crushed tomatoes and stir to combine.
4. In a separate bowl, combine cooked spaghetti, mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, and beaten egg. Mix well.
5. In a 9×13-inch baking dish, spread half of the meat sauce on the bottom. Top with half of the spaghetti mixture, then repeat layers.
6. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly. Sprinkle with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Cheeseburger Casserole with Pickles
This creamy, cheesy casserole combines the flavors of a cheeseburger with the tanginess of pickles. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or game-day gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup milk
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup crushed pickle slices
– 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8 oz macaroni
– 1 cup frozen peas
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. Cook pasta according to package directions; set aside.
3. In a large skillet, cook ground beef, onion, and garlic until browned; drain excess fat.
4. Stir in milk, cheddar cheese, pickle slices, Worcestershire sauce, paprika, salt, and pepper.
5. Combine cooked pasta and meat mixture; transfer to a 9×13-inch baking dish.
6. Top with additional shredded cheese (optional).
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Chicken Alfredo Zucchini Casserole
Elevate your weeknight dinner with this creamy, comforting casserole that combines the flavors of chicken alfredo and zucchini. This easy-to-make recipe is perfect for a quick and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cooked and diced
– 2 medium zucchinis, sliced
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 cup cooked fettuccine noodles
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. Cook zucchinis in boiling water until tender; drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add flour and whisk together to make a roux; cook for 1 minute.
4. Gradually add heavy cream, whisking constantly; bring to a simmer.
5. Stir in Parmesan cheese until melted; season with salt and pepper.
6. Combine cooked chicken, zucchinis, fettuccine noodles, and sauce in a large bowl.
7. Transfer mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish and bake for 25-30 minutes or until hot and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Mini Corn Dog Casserole
This sweet and savory casserole is a fun twist on traditional corn dogs, featuring bite-sized mini hot dogs wrapped in crispy cornmeal batter and baked to perfection.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of mini hot dogs
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup cornmeal
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup milk
– 2 large eggs, beaten
– Vegetable oil for greasing the casserole dish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch casserole dish with vegetable oil.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, cornmeal, sugar, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together milk and eggs. Add the dry ingredients and mix until just combined.
4. Cut the mini hot dogs into halves or quarters, depending on size preference. Wrap each piece with a small amount of batter, making sure to cover the entire hot dog.
5. Arrange the coated hot dogs in the prepared casserole dish, leaving some space between each one.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cornmeal is golden brown and the hot dogs are cooked through.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Broccoli Cheese and Rice Casserole
A comforting and flavorful casserole perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. This recipe combines the richness of cheese, the crunch of broccoli, and the comfort of rice in a simple and satisfying dish.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked white rice
– 3 cups broccoli florets
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup milk
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 teaspoon onion powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a large skillet, sauté broccoli and onion powder in butter until tender.
3. In a separate bowl, mix cooked rice, milk, and cheddar cheese.
4. Combine the broccoli mixture with the rice mixture and season with salt and pepper.
5. Transfer to a 9×13 inch baking dish and top with additional grated cheese if desired.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Mexican Tortilla Casserole
This hearty casserole combines the flavors of Mexico with the comfort of a classic tortilla dish. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering, this recipe is easy to make and sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– 1 lb ground beef (or ground turkey, chicken, or beans for a vegetarian option)
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies
– 1 tsp cumin
– 1/2 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup shredded cheese (Cheddar or Monterey Jack work well)
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– Cooking spray or oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. Cook ground beef in a large skillet, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
3. Add onion and garlic to the skillet; cook until onion is translucent.
4. Stir in cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper.
5. In a separate pan, warm tortillas over medium heat for about 30 seconds on each side.
6. Assemble the casserole: spread half of the beef mixture in a 9×13 inch baking dish, followed by half of the tortillas, half of the cheese, and half of the cilantro. Repeat the layers.
7. Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes.
8. Remove foil and continue baking for an additional 15-20 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Pumpkin French Toast Casserole
Start your day with a warm and comforting pumpkin-infused twist on traditional French toast casserole. This recipe combines the flavors of pumpkin, cinnamon, and nutmeg with crispy bread and creamy custard.
Ingredients:
– 12 slices of bread (white or challah work well)
– 1/2 cup pure pumpkin puree
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 2 large eggs
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, melted
– Maple syrup or whipped cream for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a shallow dish, whisk together pumpkin puree, sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
3. Dip each bread slice into the pumpkin mixture, coating both sides evenly.
4. Place coated bread slices in a 9×13-inch baking dish.
5. In a separate bowl, whisk together eggs, heavy cream, and melted butter.
6. Pour the egg mixture over the bread slices.
7. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until puffed and golden brown.
8. Serve warm with maple syrup or whipped cream if desired.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Peanut Butter Banana Oatmeal Casserole
Peanut Butter Banana Oatmeal Casserole Recipe
Summary: This casserole combines the creamy goodness of peanut butter, the sweetness of banana, and the wholesome taste of oatmeal for a delicious breakfast or brunch option.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups rolled oats
– 1 cup milk
– 1/4 cup creamy peanut butter
– 1 ripe banana, sliced
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 cup chopped walnuts (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine oats, milk, peanut butter, and honey. Mix until smooth.
3. Add sliced banana and mix well.
4. Pour the mixture into a 9×13-inch baking dish.
5. Sprinkle chopped walnuts on top (if using).
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the casserole is lightly golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Hidden Veggie Lasagna Casserole
This classic lasagna casserole gets a healthy boost with the addition of finely chopped vegetables, making it a great option for picky eaters or those looking to sneak in some extra nutrients. The best part? No one will even notice!
Ingredients:
– 8-10 lasagna noodles
– 1 cup grated mozzarella cheese
– 1/2 cup grated ricotta cheese
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup frozen spinach, thawed and drained
– 1 cup sliced mushrooms
– 1 cup diced bell peppers
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. Cook lasagna noodles according to package instructions.
3. In a large skillet, cook ground beef until browned; add chopped onion, garlic, spinach, mushrooms, and bell peppers. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. In a separate bowl, combine ricotta cheese and egg. Mix well.
5. Assemble casserole by spreading meat mixture on the bottom layer of lasagna noodles, followed by ricotta-egg mixture, then mozzarella cheese. Repeat for 2-3 layers, finishing with mozzarella on top.
6. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Sweet and Sour Meatball Casserole
Sweet and Sour Meatball Casserole Recipe
A twist on classic meatball casserole, this sweet and sour version is a delightful combination of tangy and savory flavors.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 can (14.5 oz) sweetened condensed milk
– 1 cup grape juice
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 1/2 cup ketchup
– 1/4 cup chopped green onions for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, Worcestershire sauce, oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix well with your hands until just combined.
3. Form into meatballs (about 12-15). Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until cooked through.
5. In a separate bowl, whisk together sweetened condensed milk, grape juice, brown sugar, and ketchup.
6. Arrange the baked meatballs in a 9×13-inch baking dish. Pour the sweet and sour sauce over the top.
7. Bake for an additional 20-25 minutes or until the casserole is bubbly and golden brown.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Summary
Discover 18 easy and delicious kid-friendly casserole recipes that are perfect for family meals or snacks. From classic mac and cheese to tacos, pizza, and more, these casseroles are sure to please even the pickiest eaters. With hidden veggies and clever twists, you’ll find something for every taste bud. Try Cheesy Taco Casserole with Ground Beef, Chicken and Broccoli Rice Casserole, or Mac and Cheese Casserole with Hidden Veggies – and many more! These recipes are easy to make and perfect for busy families on-the-go.