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25 Thanksgiving Casserole Ideas That Bring the Kind of Comfort Only Grandma Used to Make

If the words “pass the casserole” bring back vivid family memories, you’re not alone. Thanksgiving wouldn’t be complete without those classic dishes everyone claims are made exactly like grandma’s, but this list of 25 brings new levels of comfort without anyone having to wear an apron for three hours. The hardest part is picking which one to start with, and pretending you made it from scratch.

A Corn Pudding Casserole topped with chopped chives in a metal baking dish, with a portion being lifted out on a serving spatula.
Corn Pudding Casserole. Photo credit: Retro Recipe Book.

Broccoli Rice Casserole with No Canned Soup

A close-up of a spoon holding a portion of Broccoli Rice Casserole with No Canned Soup, topped with melted cheese, over a baking dish filled with the same dish.
Broccoli Rice Casserole with No Canned Soup. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

Family gatherings often call for comforting dishes like Broccoli Rice Casserole with No Canned Soup, where fresh ingredients blend with wholesome rice and tender broccoli for a texture that feels familiar in each spoonful. Melted cheese holds everything together, while sautéed onions and garlic provide subtle flavors that remind many of memories around the table.
Get the Recipe: Broccoli Rice Casserole with No Canned Soup

Turkey Stuffed Shells with Pesto

Turkey and Pesto Stuffed Pasta Shells in a black cast iron dish.
Turkey Stuffed Shells with Pesto. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Home cooks can count on Turkey Stuffed Shells with Pesto for a dish that layers hearty turkey, creamy ricotta, and fragrant basil pesto inside jumbo pasta shells. Baked until golden on top, this bake proves filling and flavorful, providing both protein and comfort in each serving. The mixture of lean turkey and herby pesto delivers a twist on traditional pasta, making it appeal to both new and experienced cooks.
Get the Recipe: Turkey Stuffed Shells with Pesto

31 of Chef Jenn's FAVE Casseroles!

Recipes for Comfort-Filled Family Meals

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Cinnamon Roll Casserole

A close-up of a slice of Cinnamon Roll Casserole topped with golden raisins on a white plate.
Cinnamon Roll Casserole. Photo credit: Bake What You Love.

Many breakfast tables find Cinnamon Roll Casserole to be a family-friendly dish that transforms cinnamon rolls into an easily shareable bake. Soft rolls soak up a creamy egg mixture topped with a hint of vanilla, and it comes out of the oven with a tender texture. Warm spices fill the kitchen with a nostalgic aroma that brings relatives together before the meal even begins.
Get the Recipe: Cinnamon Roll Casserole

Mexican Chicken Casserole

Mexican Chicken Casserole on a rectangular pan.
Mexican Chicken Casserole. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

On busy evenings, homes often serve Mexican Chicken Casserole for those seeking layers of chicken, beans, corn, and shredded cheese baked together. A homemade seasoning mix lends familiar flavors, while crushed tortilla chips on top deliver a lovely crunch. Both weeknight cooks and family hosts praise how quickly it comes together and how well it stores for leftovers the next day.
Get the Recipe: Mexican Chicken Casserole

Chicken Cobbler with Red Lobster Biscuits

A casserole dish of Chicken Cobbler with Red Lobster Biscuit.
Chicken Cobbler with Red Lobster Biscuits. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

Many potlucks see Chicken Cobbler with Red Lobster Biscuits taking center stage, with tender chicken and creamy sauce topped by golden biscuits inspired by a popular restaurant. Chopped vegetables underneath contribute texture, while garlic butter brushed onto biscuits brings added taste. Guests appreciate how the top layer stays light yet flavorful, making this dish memorable for both its heartiness and bakery-style finish.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Cobbler with Red Lobster Biscuits

Mom’s Meatball Casserole

A hand lifts a serving of meatball casserole from a rectangular baking dish, showing melted cheese stretching.
Mom’s Meatball Casserole. Photo credit: Retro Recipe Book.

Every family has stories passed through recipes like Mom’s Meatball Casserole, featuring homemade meatballs nestled in marinara sauce and blanketed by melting mozzarella. Pasta sits below, absorbing juices from the sauce and forming a tender base for each bite. The rich aroma fills the kitchen as it bakes, inviting everyone to linger for seconds. Moms everywhere love sharing this hearty dish as a centerpiece for reconnecting over food.
Get the Recipe: Mom’s Meatball Casserole

Chef Jenn’s Fully Loaded Sweet Potato Casserole

A white plate with loaded sweet potato casserole topped with sour cream, bacon, cheese, and green onions, set on a brown charger plate with a fork and cooking utensils in the background.
Chef Jenn’s Fully Loaded Sweet Potato Casserole. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Generational kitchens celebrate Chef Jenn’s Fully Loaded Sweet Potato Casserole, which packs every spoonful with roasted sweet potatoes, marshmallows, pecans, and buttery brown sugar. The crunchy topping contrasts with the smoothness of the sweet potatoes, creating a dish that satisfies a variety of tastes in one pan. People often appreciate that it uses classic ingredients with generous portions, ensuring each serving feels abundant.
Get the Recipe: Chef Jenn’s Fully Loaded Sweet Potato Casserole

Sweet Potato Casserole

A close-up of Sweet Potato Casserole on a white dish.
Sweet Potato Casserole. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Home chefs know Sweet Potato Casserole as a reliable dish, featuring mashed sweet potatoes flavored with hints of cinnamon and nutmeg beneath a layer of toasted marshmallows. This classic bake shines with a blend of buttery sweetness and contrasting textures, making it a dependable favorite at large gatherings. Its straightforward preparation allows cooks of all experience levels to recreate a time-honored taste.
Get the Recipe: Sweet Potato Casserole

Beefy Cabbage Roll Casserole

A slice of Beefy cabbage roll casserole on a black plate.
Beefy Cabbage Roll Casserole. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

Generations enjoy Beefy Cabbage Roll Casserole for its hearty combination of ground beef, rice, and cabbage layered in a flavorful tomato sauce. The baking process marries all ingredients into a soft, flavorful medley that makes mealtimes feel soothing and fulfilling. Those who love traditional stuffed cabbage appreciate how this casserole brings the same flavors with less effort.
Get the Recipe: Beefy Cabbage Roll Casserole

Mom’s Ritz Cracker Chicken Casserole with Cheese

A hand holds a spoonful of Ritz Cracker Chicken Casserole with Cheese, with the casserole dish in the background.
Mom’s Ritz Cracker Chicken Casserole with Cheese. Photo credit: Retro Recipe Book.

Many parents pass down Mom’s Ritz Cracker Chicken Casserole with Cheese, a dish where tender chicken and shredded cheese get covered with crumbled buttery crackers for a unique crunchy topping. A creamy sauce brings all ingredients together, resulting in a comforting bake that’s easy to serve in generous portions. This approachable recipe remains a staple in households that value warmth and togetherness.
Get the Recipe: Mom’s Ritz Cracker Chicken Casserole with Cheese

Cuban Sandwich Casserole

A piece of Cuban sandwich casserole on a plate with potato chips.
Cuban Sandwich Casserole. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Community tables feel complete with Cuban Sandwich Casserole, blending roasted pork, ham, Swiss cheese, pickles, and mustard in a layered bake inspired by a popular sandwich. Toasted bread adds textural contrast, making every bite familiar yet convenient for serving in larger portions. The tang of pickles and tasty meats combine in a way that encourages conversation about classic deli favorites. People appreciate how this casserole turns a well-loved sandwich into a shareable dish.
Get the Recipe: Cuban Sandwich Casserole

Grandma’s Mashed Potato Casserole

A close-up of Grandma's Mashed Potato Casserole with a serving spoon in the dish.
Grandma’s Mashed Potato Casserole. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

Give your table a sense of tradition with Grandma’s Mashed Potato Casserole, where silky potatoes get enriched with cream cheese, butter, and a hint of seasoning before baking to a golden finish. The result is a forgiving dish that can be made ahead of time and reheated without losing flavor or texture. Many hosts favor its ability to stretch their meal and please people of all ages. Kitchens everywhere embrace this recipe for its balance of simplicity and comfort in every serving.
Get the Recipe: Grandma’s Mashed Potato Casserole

Chicken Divan

A fork is lifting a portion of Chicken Divan from one of the bowls.
Chicken Divan. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

Longstanding gatherings showcase Chicken Divan, a classic casserole blending tender chicken, crisp broccoli, and creamy sauce under a layer of cheese. The combination makes for a dish that’s easy to serve and pleasing to guests who recognize old-fashioned kitchen methods. Baking brings all elements together, resulting in flavors that bridge childhood nostalgia and modern preferences. This reliable recipe finds its way onto tables where warmth and connection matter most.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Divan

Baked Bean Casserole

A wooden spoon holds a serving of Baked Bean Casserole above a pot filled with more bean casserole.
Baked Bean Casserole. Photo credit: Retro Recipe Book.

Family reunions often include Baked Bean Casserole, a mainstay featuring hearty beans baked with onions, bacon, and brown sugar until everything caramelizes. Slow-roasting brings out a deep sweetness and smoky undertones, helping create memorable moments at shared meals. Its uncomplicated preparation means more time for conversation and less time at the stove. This recipe’s simplicity keeps it on repeat in households looking to recreate classic flavors effortlessly.
Get the Recipe: Baked Bean Casserole

Chicken Spaghetti

A hand holding a fork with a serving of chicken spaghetti from a cast-iron skillet.
Chicken Spaghetti. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Generations share Chicken Spaghetti, a casserole that combines shredded chicken with pasta, diced tomatoes, and a creamy sauce for dependable comfort. Cheese melted on top draws people in, and the noodles absorb flavors that keep guests returning for second helpings. Its forgiving nature allows easy customization for picky eaters or large crowds. Mothers everywhere trust this recipe to please every relative, young or old.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Spaghetti

Sweet Potato Casserole with Pecan Streusel Topping

A slice of sweet potato casserole topped with pecan crumble on a white plate with a spoon, surrounded by pecans and sunflowers.
Sweet Potato Casserole with Pecan Streusel Topping. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Home bakers enjoy Sweet Potato Casserole with Pecan Streusel Topping, which features creamy mashed sweet potatoes beneath a crunchy mix of pecans, brown sugar, and butter. This combination highlights the contrast between soft and crisp, anchoring many tables with its recognizable taste. Simple steps and familiar ingredients make this casserole approachable for cooks at any skill level. Family members commonly request another serving of this dish whenever traditions are honored.
Get the Recipe: Sweet Potato Casserole with Pecan Streusel Topping

Tini’s Mac & Cheese with a Twist

A spoonful of Tini’s Mac & Cheese with a Twist is held above a square baking dish filled with the same dish.
Tini’s Mac & Cheese with a Twist. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Nostalgic kitchens welcome Tini’s Mac & Cheese with a Twist, with elbow macaroni covered in a blend of cheeses and a special ingredient for extra flair. Baking produces a slightly crisp top that plays well with the creamy noodles underneath, proving that comfort doesn’t require complicated steps. This dish stands out in recipe collections for its easy adaptation to different tastes, making it suitable for households with varying preferences.
Get the Recipe: Tini’s Mac & Cheese with a Twist

Beefy John Wayne Casserole

A slice of beefy John Wayne casserole on a plate.
Beefy John Wayne Casserole. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Community feasts highlight Beefy John Wayne Casserole, layering seasoned beef, tomatoes, peppers, and cheese atop a biscuit crust that holds everything together. Baking produces a hearty result that appeals to both adults and children for generous portions and familiar flavors. Cooks appreciate how this recipe manages to pack classic comfort into an easy one-pan dish. Its straightforward nature allows hosts to focus on gathering loved ones around the table.
Get the Recipe: Beefy John Wayne Casserole

Grandma’s Twice-Baked Potato Casserole

Grandma’s Twice-Baked Potato Casserole topped with chopped green onions and bacon, surrounded by fresh green onions.
Grandma’s Twice-Baked Potato Casserole. Photo credit: Retro Recipe Book.

Family chefs routinely prepare Grandma’s Twice-Baked Potato Casserole, which joins mashed potatoes, cheese, bacon, and green onions into an oven-baked dish with a golden top. The process enriches each ingredient through a second bake, resulting in a harmonious blend that people look forward to sharing. This casserole can be prepared in advance and easily reheated for convenience. Generations refer to this recipe when discussing favorite meals passed from one cook to another.
Get the Recipe: Grandma’s Twice-Baked Potato Casserole

Corned Beef Hash Casserole

Corned Beef Hash Casserole in a square baking dish.
Corned Beef Hash Casserole. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Many breakfast tables serve Corned Beef Hash Casserole, bringing together chunks of corned beef, potatoes, onions, and bell peppers in a single dish. Baking melds all ingredients, providing uniform flavor and warmth to fill hungry stomachs in the morning. With straightforward steps and a handful of pantry staples, home cooks can quickly create a fulfilling meal. A sprinkle of fresh herbs before serving allows each plate to feel part of tradition.
Get the Recipe: Corned Beef Hash Casserole

Sausage Hash Brown Breakfast Casserole

A square black baking dish filled with a baked casserole topped with melted cheese, containing visible pieces of meat and vegetables.
Sausage Hash Brown Breakfast Casserole. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Morning meals benefit from Sausage Hash Brown Breakfast Casserole, which layers shredded potatoes and spicy sausage beneath eggs and cheese for a simple, robust bake. The ingredients come together in one pan, making breakfast preparation accessible for all skill levels. It’s suited for feeding both small families and large groups without fuss. Guests look forward to how easily this dish can be reheated and served without loss of flavor or texture.
Get the Recipe: Sausage Hash Brown Breakfast Casserole

Tuna Noodle Casserole

A plate of tuna noodle casserole with more in a baking dish nearby.
Tuna Noodle Casserole. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

Generations enjoy Tuna Noodle Casserole, blending egg noodles, tuna, peas, and a creamy sauce topped with crunchy crumbs for a comforting result. Baking produces flavors reminiscent of bygone lunches and childhood kitchen memories. With simple instructions and pantry staples, busy home cooks make this meal in minutes with confidence. People appreciate how easily this recipe adapts to varied tastes using just a few staple ingredients.
Get the Recipe: Tuna Noodle Casserole

Smoked Mac & Cheese

A skillet filled with Smoked Mac & Cheese.
Smoked Mac & Cheese. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Large gatherings make room for Smoked Mac & Cheese, with pasta and cheese enveloped in a subtle smoky flavor that distinguishes it from the classic version. The baking process creates a crisp crust, finding balance with creamy noodles underneath. Many hosts appreciate the portability and easy portioning into single servings for guests. Cooks rely on this recipe to bring depth and a slight twist to familiar tables.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Mac & Cheese

Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole

Chicken cordon bleu casserole on a black plate with a fork.
Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Homemade meals become memorable with Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole, combining layers of chicken, ham, Swiss cheese, and a light breadcrumb topping. The oven melds all flavors into a cohesive bake that feels both hearty and easy to serve. Many cooks appreciate its resemblance to the classic dish, simplified for busy nights or larger crowds. Every family enjoys how it draws conversation about shared meals and cherished recipes.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole

Squash Casserole

A serving of squash casserole with a crumb topping is plated on a white dish.
Squash Casserole. Photo credit: The Bite Stuff.

Everyday kitchens feature Squash Casserole, blending tender squash slices with a rich mixture of eggs, onions, and cheddar cheese in a simple bake. A crispy cracker crumb layer tops the dish, contrasting with the creamy filling below. This recipe stands out for its easy customization using different squashes and cheeses according to preference. Hosts find it effortless to prepare and a reliable centerpiece for gatherings both large and small.
Get the Recipe: Squash Casserole

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