What did we make for dinner before casseroles? Seriously. They are simple to throw together and are a hearty, comforting dinner option when the weather is colder. Here are a few recipes that your family will give two thumbs up – and ask for seconds.
For me, the king of all casseroles is macaroni and cheese. Cheryl Kemptner’s (Rancho Mirage, CA) Redneck Mac ‘n Cheese Casserole has two ingredients I’d never tried together in mac and cheese – pimentos and onion. I love pimento cheese spread, so I knew I had to try the recipe.
“Now, before y’all start complaining about not liking pimentos, the taste is very mild and really spruces up the recipe to make it the biggest hit at any table,” says Cheryl. “Redneck Mac ‘n Cheese Casserole is like no other you’ve ever tried.”
This really is not your typical mac and cheese. If you’re not familiar with pimentos, they’re a small pepper (you’ll find them stuffed in green olives) sometimes known as a cherry pepper. Typically, they’re sweeter than a bell pepper. Pimentos and onions add tons of flavor. The mac and cheese is rich and creamy from the cream of mushroom/mayo mixture. Make sure to add the Ritz crackers with the cheese – it’s a delicious topping.
Another classic dinner casserole is a hamburger casserole. Jeanne Gliddon (Los Banos, CA) adds her twist in her Cheesy Hamburger Casserole. Plus, it’s all made in one pot which makes clean-up a breeze.
“My mother made this recipe when I was a little girl and it has always been a favorite of mine,” shares Jeanne. “It is my go-to recipe when I can’t think of anything to make and it works great for a potluck party or a casual meal for company.”
Oh gosh, this cheesy, ooey gooey casserole recipe is fantastic. It’s the perfect dish for a quick and tasty meal. I love the flavor the fresh veggies (like peppers, celery, and tomato) add. Tons of cheese on top pulls the dinner together and gives the dish that casserole feel. Serve with a loaf of bread and a side salad for a great dinner on a busy night.
Shelley Simpson’s (Swartz Creek, MI) Chinese-Style Hamburger Casserole is an easy, easy, easy family dinner. Did I mention it’s easy? Once you brown the beef, everything else is a breeze.
“This was one of mamma’s recipes,” reveals Shelley. “And one of our favorite wholesome meals growing up.” Soy sauce really gives this dish Asian flavors. The casserole is super creamy and hearty.
If Mexican flavors are what your family loves, try Kathy Sandoz’s (Nederland, TX) Enchilacomalejita Casserole (Mexican Casserole). “I didn’t have all the ingredients to make any one whole recipe, so I decided to improvise,” explains Kathy. “Necessity is the mother of invention… We weren’t disappointed.”
Pronounced ENCHILada-tACO-taMALE-faJITA, it’s a mouthful to say but simple to make. You have all the flavor of the taco seasoning and then the enchilada sauce the slight crunch from the chips and over course topped with cheese. Yum!
“Unbelievably easy to make, unbelievably delicious to eat,” is how Debbie Quimby (Vicksburg, MS) describes her Taco Casserole Ole. “You won’t have leftovers when you serve this dish to family and friends.”
Seriously creamy, I loved this casserole. It has a bit of heat. If your family likes things more mild cut back on the heat by adjusting the jalapenos. It will still be a super tasty casserole. The taco seasoning really punches up the flavor.
Is there a go-to casserole recipe your family loves? Make sure to share your recipe. Happy Pinching!