Casserole Recipes

A casserole refers both to the deep, oven-safe dish used and the baked meal prepared within it. In the U.S., casseroles typically consist of a protein (like chicken, beef, or beans), starch (such as pasta, rice, or potatoes), vegetables, a binder (sauce or soup), and often a crunchy or cheesy topping, all baked together.

Some beloved classics include green bean casserole (made with cream of mushroom soup and topped with fried onions), chicken tetrazzini (a creamy poultry-pasta bake), porcupine meatballs (ground beef mixed with rice in tomato sauce), and chicken divan (broccoli and chicken in a cheesy Mornay sauce).

Yes! Many casseroles, including Ree Drummond’s Chicken Spaghetti, freeze exceptionally well. You can assemble them, wrap them in foil, and freeze them for up to six months. To serve, thaw in the fridge for 24 hours, then bake per recipe instructions. 

Avoid sogginess by using the correct baking dish size and shape, managing sauce quantities carefully, and draining high-moisture veggies before adding them. Par-cooking hearty vegetables like carrots also helps ensure even cooking without excess moisture. 

They became staples in mid-20th-century U.S. kitchens for their simplicity, affordability, convenience, and comfort, especially as many recipes utilized pantry staples like canned soups. Their one-dish nature and broad appeal make them a dependable go-to for family meals and gatherings.