9 Dump-and-Bake Easy Casserole Recipes for Weeknight Dinners

In the hustle and bustle of modern life, finding time to prepare a wholesome, delicious dinner can be a challenge. That’s where dump-and-bake casseroles come to the rescue! These recipes are not only convenient but also packed with flavor, making them perfect for busy weeknights. With minimal prep time and simple ingredients, you can have a satisfying meal on the table without breaking a sweat. Let’s dive into these 9 easy casserole recipes that will make your weeknight dinners a breeze.

Chicken Alfredo and Rice Casserole

Ingredients

• 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
• 2 cups cooked rice
• 1 jar (16 oz) Alfredo pasta sauce
• 1 cup frozen peas
• 1 cup roasted red bell peppers, chopped
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• Salt and pepper to taste

Preparation Steps

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken, cooked rice, Alfredo sauce, peas, and roasted red bell peppers.
3. Season with salt and pepper, and mix well.
4. Transfer the mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
5. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the top.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
7. Serve hot and enjoy a kid-pleasing, flavorful, and nutritious meal.

Nutritional Benefits

This casserole is packed with protein from the chicken and rice, while the Alfredo sauce and cheese add a creamy texture that’s hard to resist. The addition of peas and red bell peppers not only enhances the flavor but also provides essential vitamins and minerals.

Hot Chicken Salad Casserole

Ingredients

• 2 cups cooked chicken, diced
• 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
• 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
• 1 cup crushed cornflakes
• 1/2 cup sliced almonds
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• Salt and pepper to taste

Preparation Steps

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine the diced chicken, cream of chicken soup, and Greek yogurt.
3. Season with salt and pepper, and mix well.
4. Transfer the mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
5. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the top.
6. Top with crushed cornflakes and sliced almonds.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the casserole is heated through.
8. Serve hot and enjoy a warm, cheesy twist on chicken salad.

Taste and Texture

This casserole offers a delightful combination of creamy, crunchy, and cheesy elements. The crushed cornflakes and sliced almonds provide a satisfying crunch, while the creamy base and melted cheese make it a comforting dish perfect for any weeknight.

Twice Baked Potato Dump Casserole

Ingredients

• 4 large baking potatoes, cooked and mashed
• 1 cup sour cream
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup cooked bacon, crumbled
• 1/2 cup chopped green onions
• Salt and pepper to taste

Preparation Steps

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine the mashed potatoes, sour cream, cheddar cheese, bacon, and green onions.
3. Season with salt and pepper, and mix well.
4. Transfer the mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
5. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the casserole is heated through.
6. Serve hot and enjoy a gooey, cheesy, and bacon-filled delight.

Ideal Occasions to Serve

This twice baked potato casserole is perfect for holiday meals, potlucks, or any occasion where you want to impress your guests with minimal effort. Its rich, comforting flavors are sure to leave no leftovers.

Smoky Cheesy Chicken-Potato Casserole

Ingredients

• 2 cups cooked smoked or roasted chicken, shredded
• 3 cups hash brown potatoes
• 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
• 1 cup smoked cheddar cheese, shredded
• 1 cup croutons (optional)
• Salt and pepper to taste

Preparation Steps

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken, hash brown potatoes, cream of chicken soup, and smoked cheddar cheese.
3. Season with salt and pepper, and mix well.
4. Transfer the mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
5. Top with croutons, if desired.
6. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the casserole is heated through.
7. Serve hot and enjoy a hearty, smoky, and cheesy meal.

Variations and Tips

Feel free to substitute the smoked cheddar with regular cheddar or any other cheese you prefer. For added flavor, mix in some sautéed onions or bell peppers.

Hot and Cheesy Chicken Casserole

Ingredients

• 2 cups cooked chicken, diced
• 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
• 1 can (10.5 oz) nacho cheese soup
• 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables
• 1 cup shredded Mexican cheese blend
• Salt and pepper to taste

Preparation Steps

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine the diced chicken, cream of chicken soup, nacho cheese soup, and frozen mixed vegetables.
3. Season with salt and pepper, and mix well.
4. Transfer the mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
5. Sprinkle the shredded Mexican cheese blend over the top.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
7. Serve hot and enjoy an easy, cheesy dinner.

Family-Friendly Appeal

This casserole is a hit with kids and adults alike. The combination of creamy soups and melted cheese makes it a comforting and satisfying meal that everyone will love.

Shawarma Casserole

Ingredients

• 1 lb ground turkey
• 1 cup cooked rice
• 1 tablespoon shawarma seasoning
• 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
• 1 cup pita chips, crushed
• 1/2 cup Greek yogurt
• Lemon wedges and fresh herbs for garnish

Preparation Steps

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large skillet, cook the ground turkey over medium heat until browned. Drain any excess fat.
3. Add the shawarma seasoning and cook for another minute.
4. In a large bowl, combine the cooked turkey, cooked rice, and chickpeas.
5. Transfer the mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
6. Top with crushed pita chips.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the casserole is heated through.
8. Serve hot, garnished with Greek yogurt, lemon wedges, and fresh herbs.

Flavor Profile

This casserole offers a unique, aromatic twist on a traditional dish. The shawarma seasoning brings a burst of Middle Eastern flavors, while the crushed pita chips add a delightful crunch.

Denver Potato Casserole

Ingredients

• 2 cups frozen hash brown potatoes
• 1 cup diced ham
• 1 green bell pepper, chopped
• 1 yellow onion, chopped
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• Salt and pepper to taste

Preparation Steps

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine the hash brown potatoes, diced ham, green bell pepper, yellow onion, and cheddar cheese.
3. Season with salt and pepper, and mix well.
4. Transfer the mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
5. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the casserole is heated through.
6. Serve hot and enjoy a simple, delicious meal.

Versatility

This casserole is perfect for breakfast, brunch, or dinner. Its combination of ham, cheese, and vegetables makes it a versatile dish that can be enjoyed any time of day.

Easy Huevos Rancheros Casserole

Ingredients

• 6 large eggs
• 2 cups frozen hash brown potatoes
• 1 cup chunky salsa
• 1 cup shredded Mexican cheese blend
• Salt and pepper to taste

Preparation Steps

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk the eggs and season with salt and pepper.
3. Add the hash brown potatoes, chunky salsa, and half of the shredded cheese. Mix well.
4. Transfer the mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
5. Sprinkle the remaining cheese over the top.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the eggs are set and the top is golden brown.
7. Serve hot with your favorite toppings like avocado, sour cream, or extra salsa.

Serving Suggestions

This spicy egg and potato dish is perfect for a zesty breakfast, brunch, or even dinner. The combination of eggs, potatoes, and salsa provides a flavorful kick that will wake up your taste buds.

Hash Brown Casserole

Ingredients

• 3 cups frozen hash brown potatoes
• 1 cup diced ham
• 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
• 1 cup sour cream
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Topping options: French-fried onions, crushed potato chips, or cornflakes

Preparation Steps

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine the hash brown potatoes, diced ham, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, and cheddar cheese.
3. Season with salt and pepper, and mix well.
4. Transfer the mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
5. Top with your choice of French-fried onions, crushed potato chips, or cornflakes.
6. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the casserole is heated through.
7. Serve hot and enjoy a hearty, customizable meal.

Customization Options

Feel free to get creative with the toppings on this casserole. Whether you prefer the classic cornflakes, crispy potato chips, or savory French-fried onions, each option adds a unique texture and flavor to this delicious dish.