- What to cook in a casserole dish easily?

Casserole dishes are incredibly versatile. Some of the easiest things to cook include easy casserole recipes like baked pasta (ziti, mac and cheese), layered taco bakes, creamy chicken and rice, tuna noodle casserole, and eggplant parmesan. You can also make breakfast casseroles with eggs, cheese, and veggies, or even sweet options like baked French toast. Because the dish is oven-safe, you can mix raw or pre-cooked ingredients, top with cheese or breadcrumbs, and let everything bake together — no fuss, no extra pans.

- What are 5 components of a casserole?

A perfect casserole usually includes five essential parts: Protein – Chicken, beef, tuna, tofu, or beans. Vegetables – Broccoli, mushrooms, spinach, corn, etc. Starch – Pasta, rice, potatoes, or tortillas. Binder – Soup, cream sauce, tomato sauce, or eggs that hold everything together. Topping – Cheese, breadcrumbs, cracker crumbs, or even nuts for crunch. These five layers build the flavor, texture, and heartiness that define the best easy casserole recipes .

- What is the difference between a stew and a casserole?

While both are comforting and often feature similar ingredients, the cooking method sets them apart. Stews are cooked on the stove or in a slow cooker, usually with more liquid. Casseroles are baked in the oven and typically have less broth or sauce. Also, stews are often stirred during cooking, while casseroles are assembled and baked without much interference. Casseroles usually come with a golden top — thanks to cheese or breadcrumbs — that you don’t get with stews.

- What is a good casserole to take to someone?

The best casseroles to give as gifts are those that reheat well, transport easily, and suit a wide range of tastes. Great options include: Chicken and rice casserole Tuna noodle casserole Vegetarian lasagna Baked mac and cheese Broccoli and cheese casserole These types of easy casserole recipes are not only delicious but also comforting, making them perfect for sharing with someone who could use a little love in the form of food.

Easy Casserole Recipes – The Best 21 Comfort Meals You’ll Love

Ingredients

Scale

4 cups fresh or frozen broccoli florets
1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
1/2 cup sour cream
1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
1/4 tsp garlic powder
1/2 tsp salt
1/4 tsp black pepper
1/2 cup crushed buttery crackers (optional, for topping)
2 tbsp melted butter (optional, for topping)

Instructions

Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
Steam or blanch broccoli until just tender. Drain well.
In a large bowl, mix soup, sour cream, 1 cup cheese, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
Add broccoli and stir until evenly coated.
Transfer mixture to a greased 9×9 baking dish.
Top with remaining 1/2 cup cheese.
For a crunchy topping, mix crushed crackers with melted butter and sprinkle over the top.
Bake for 25–30 minutes, until bubbly and golden.
Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Notes

Use frozen broccoli for convenience. Swap cream of mushroom soup for cream of chicken if desired. This casserole reheats beautifully for next-day meals.

Author: Ava
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Category: Side Dish
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American
Diet: Vegetarian

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 cup
Calories: 210
Sugar: 3g
Sodium: 510mg
Fat: 15g
Saturated Fat: 8g
Unsaturated Fat: 6g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 10g
Fiber: 2g
Protein: 8g
Cholesterol: 35mg

Keywords: broccoli, cheese, casserole, comfort food, easy, baked, side dish