As the leaves start to change colors and the crisp autumn air sets in, there’s nothing quite like a warm, comforting casserole to bring people together. Whether you’re hosting a holiday gathering or just looking for a satisfying weeknight meal, these 20 cozy fall casseroles are sure to hit the spot. From classic comfort foods like mac and cheese and shepherd’s pie to innovative twists on traditional recipes, our list has something for everyone.
From pumpkin and sausage breakfast casserole to beef and mushroom shepherd’s pie casserole, we’ve rounded up the best of the season’s flavors in one place. So go ahead, get cozy, and let the aroma of these delicious casseroles fill your home with warmth and comfort this fall.
Pumpkin and sausage breakfast casserole
Pumpkin and Sausage Breakfast Casserole Recipe
This hearty breakfast casserole combines the warmth of pumpkin with the savory flavor of sausage, perfect for a chilly morning. With its golden-brown crust and tender filling, it’s sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound sweet Italian sausage, casings removed
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup canned pumpkin puree
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 4 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 6 slices white bread, cubed
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. Cook sausage in a skillet over medium-high heat, breaking up with spoon as it cooks, until browned and cooked through.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together pumpkin, heavy cream, eggs, salt, and pepper.
4. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and arrange half the bread cubes in the bottom.
5. Add cooked sausage, then pour in the pumpkin mixture, followed by the remaining bread cubes.
6. Sprinkle cheddar cheese on top and cover with aluminum foil for 30 minutes.
7. Remove foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Butternut squash and sage casserole
This comforting casserole is a perfect blend of sweet, savory, and earthy flavors, featuring roasted butternut squash and fragrant sage. A simple and satisfying side dish or main course for the fall season.
Ingredients:
– 1 large butternut squash (about 2 lbs), peeled, seeded, and cubed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups grated cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– 1 teaspoon dried sage
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh thyme leaves, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Toss squash with olive oil, onion, garlic, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast for 45 minutes or until tender.
3. In a large mixing bowl, combine roasted squash, cheddar cheese, heavy cream, and dried sage. Mix well to combine.
4. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish and bake for an additional 20-25 minutes, or until hot and bubbly.
5. Serve warm, garnished with fresh thyme leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
Sweet potato and black bean casserole
Sweet Potato and Black Bean Casserole: A Hearty, Plant-Based Delight
This casserole is a perfect blend of sweet and savory, featuring roasted sweet potatoes and black beans in a creamy sauce. It’s an excellent option for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup vegan cream cheese
– 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese (dairy-free)
– 1 tsp cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup cornbread mix
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Toss sweet potatoes with 2 tbsp olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until tender.
3. In a large skillet, cook onion and garlic over medium heat until softened. Add black beans, cumin, salt, and pepper. Cook for 5 minutes.
4. In a separate bowl, mix vegan cream cheese and shredded cheese until smooth.
5. Combine cooked sweet potatoes, black bean mixture, and cream cheese mixture in a 9×13-inch baking dish.
6. Top with cornbread mix and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Creamy chicken and wild rice casserole
A hearty, comforting casserole that combines the flavors of chicken, wild rice, and creamy sauce. Perfect for a family dinner or a weeknight meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups cooked wild rice
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed frozen vegetables (peas, carrots, corn)
– 1 can (10.5 oz) of cream of chicken soup
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1/4 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. Cook wild rice according to package instructions.
3. In a large skillet, sauté chicken, onion, and garlic until chicken is cooked through.
4. Add frozen vegetables, cream of chicken soup, and milk. Stir until combined.
5. Combine cooked wild rice, chicken mixture, and cheddar cheese in a 9×13 inch baking dish.
6. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until hot and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Apple and cinnamon French toast casserole
Start your day with a sweet and satisfying breakfast treat that combines the flavors of apples and cinnamon in a crispy French toast casserole. This recipe is perfect for a cozy morning with family or friends.
Ingredients:
– 12 slices of bread (white or whole wheat)
– 2 large eggs
– 1 cup milk
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– 1/2 cup diced apples (Granny Smith or Gala work well)
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a shallow dish, whisk together eggs, milk, sugar, cinnamon, and salt.
3. Dip each bread slice into the egg mixture, coating both sides evenly.
4. Place coated bread slices in a 9×13-inch baking dish.
5. Sprinkle diced apples over the bread.
6. Dot the top with melted butter.
7. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until golden brown and puffed.
8. Dust with confectioners’ sugar before serving.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Turkey and cranberry stuffing casserole
This recipe combines the comforting flavors of turkey stuffing with the sweetness of cranberries, perfect for a holiday gathering or special occasion. This casserole is an easy and delicious way to enjoy the traditional flavors of Thanksgiving in a new and exciting way.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cubed cooked turkey breast
– 1 package of stuffing mix (chicken or turkey flavor)
– 1/2 cup chopped fresh cranberries
– 1/4 cup melted butter
– 1/2 cup chicken broth
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked turkey, stuffing mix, and chopped cranberries.
3. Mix well until all ingredients are fully incorporated.
4. Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with melted butter.
5. Add the turkey-stuffing mixture to the prepared baking dish.
6. Pour in chicken broth and season with salt and pepper.
7. Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes.
8. Remove foil and continue baking for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until top is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Spiced pear and oat crumble casserole
Escape the chill of winter with this delightful casserole, featuring tender pears, crunchy oat topping, and a hint of warm spices. Perfect for a cozy night in or a family dinner.
Ingredients:
– 2 ripe pears (any variety), peeled and sliced
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup rolled oats
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1/2 cup chopped walnuts (optional)
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine pears, granulated sugar, honey, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
3. Transfer the pear mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish.
4. In another bowl, mix oats, brown sugar, and walnuts (if using). Add melted butter and stir until crumbly.
5. Top the pear mixture with the oat topping, spreading evenly.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until the fruit is tender and the topping golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Beef and mushroom shepherd’s pie casserole
A hearty and comforting casserole that combines the flavors of tender beef, sautéed mushrooms, and creamy mashed potatoes. Perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 cup sliced mushrooms (button or cremini)
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup beef broth
– 2 tbsp tomato paste
– 2 tsp Worcestershire sauce
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 cups mashed potatoes
– 1/4 cup grated cheddar cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a large skillet, cook ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking into small pieces as it cooks.
3. Add mushrooms, onion, and garlic; cook until vegetables are tender.
4. Stir in beef broth, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, and thyme. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. In a separate pot, boil diced potatoes until tender. Mash with butter and milk.
6. Assemble casserole by spreading meat mixture in a 9×13-inch dish, topping with mashed potatoes, and sprinkling with cheddar cheese (if using).
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until potatoes are golden brown.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Brussels sprouts and bacon casserole
A savory and satisfying side dish that combines the earthy flavor of Brussels sprouts with the smoky richness of bacon. This casserole is perfect for a family dinner or as a accompaniment to your favorite main course.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
– 6 slices of bacon, diced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup grated cheddar cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large skillet, cook the bacon over medium heat until crispy.
3. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened.
4. Add the Brussels sprouts and garlic; cook for 5 minutes or until slightly tender.
5. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and top with cheddar cheese.
6. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the sprouts are caramelized and the cheese is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Cornbread topped chili casserole
This comforting casserole combines the warmth of chili with the crunch of cornbread, perfect for a cozy night in. With minimal prep time and simple steps, this recipe is a great option for a weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 large onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 can (15 oz) red kidney beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 tsp chili powder
– 1/2 tsp ground cumin
– 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 8 oz cornbread mix
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. Cook ground beef in a large skillet over medium-high heat until browned, breaking into small pieces.
3. Add onion, garlic, chili powder, cumin, and cayenne pepper; cook until onion is translucent.
4. Stir in diced tomatoes and beans; season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Prepare cornbread mix according to package instructions.
6. Pour chili mixture into a 9×13-inch baking dish and top with prepared cornbread mix.
7. Sprinkle shredded cheese over the top.
8. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until cornbread is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Spinach and artichoke chicken casserole
A creamy and flavorful twist on traditional chicken casserole, this recipe combines the richness of artichokes with the nutrients of spinach. Perfect for a comforting dinner or brunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 1 (14 oz) can artichoke hearts, drained and chopped
– 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
– 1 cup cream of chicken soup
– 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a large skillet, cook chicken until browned and cooked through.
3. In a separate bowl, combine artichoke hearts, spinach, cream of chicken soup, cheddar cheese, Parmesan cheese, milk, thyme, salt, and pepper.
4. Add cooked chicken to the bowl and stir until coated with the sauce.
5. Transfer mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish and bake for 25-30 minutes or until hot and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Baked mac and cheese with caramelized onions
This classic comfort food gets a sweet and savory twist by adding caramelized onions to the mix. The result is a rich, creamy macaroni and cheese dish that’s sure to please even the pickiest of eaters.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz macaroni
– 2 large onions, thinly sliced
– 2 tbsp butter
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup grated mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 cups milk
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium-low heat. Add sliced onions and cook for 30-40 minutes, stirring occasionally, until caramelized and golden brown.
4. In a separate saucepan, whisk together flour and milk until smooth. Bring to a simmer and cook for 2-3 minutes, until thickened.
5. Combine cooked macaroni, cheese mixture, and caramelized onions in a large bowl. Mix well to combine.
6. Transfer the macaroni mixture to a baking dish and top with additional grated cheese if desired.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Lentil and roasted vegetable casserole
This plant-based casserole combines the comforting flavors of lentils and roasted vegetables, perfect for a cozy dinner or brunch. With its rich, savory taste and nutritious ingredients, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried green or brown lentils, rinsed and drained
– 2 cups water or vegetable broth
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 carrots, peeled and chopped
– 1 red bell pepper, seeded and chopped
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large pot, combine lentils and water or broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until lentils are tender.
3. Toss chopped onion, garlic, carrots, and bell pepper with olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast in the oven for 25-30 minutes or until vegetables are tender.
4. In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked lentils, roasted vegetables, diced tomatoes, and thyme. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Transfer mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish and top with shredded cheese (if using).
6. Bake for an additional 10-15 minutes or until heated through.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Parmesan garlic mashed potato casserole
Parmesan Garlic Mashed Potato Casserole: A savory twist on classic mashed potatoes, this casserole combines the comfort of a warm, cheesy potato dish with the pungency of garlic and the nutty flavor of Parmesan.
Ingredients:
– 3-4 large Russet potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Boil potatoes until tender, about 15-20 minutes.
3. Drain potatoes and mash with butter, Parmesan cheese, garlic, and heavy cream.
4. Transfer mashed potatoes to a 9×13-inch baking dish.
5. Sprinkle additional Parmesan cheese on top.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
7. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Ham and Swiss cheese potato casserole
A classic comfort food dish that combines the savory flavors of ham, cheese, and potatoes. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend brunch.
Ingredients:
– 2 large potatoes, thinly sliced
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 1/2 cup diced cooked ham
– 1 cup shredded Swiss cheese
– 1/2 cup milk
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine sliced potatoes, melted butter, chopped onion, and diced ham. Mix well.
3. Transfer the potato mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish.
4. Sprinkle shredded Swiss cheese evenly over the top of the potatoes.
5. Pour in milk and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until the potatoes are tender and the top is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Quinoa and roasted autumn vegetable casserole
This casserole is a perfect blend of nutty quinoa, sweet roasted autumn vegetables, and savory cheese. It’s an ideal comfort food for a cozy evening with family and friends.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup quinoa
– 2 cups water or vegetable broth
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 large butternut squash (about 2 lbs), peeled and cubed
– 2 medium-sized carrots, peeled and sliced
– 1 large red bell pepper, seeded and chopped
– 1 small onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook quinoa according to package instructions.
3. Toss squash, carrots, bell pepper, onion, and garlic with olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast for 30-40 minutes or until tender.
4. In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked quinoa, roasted vegetables, and grated cheese. Mix well.
5. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes or until heated through.
6. Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-55 minutes
Creamy Tuscan chicken and spinach casserole
Elevate your weeknight dinner game with this rich and flavorful casserole, featuring tender chicken, wilted spinach, and a creamy sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
– 1 onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tsp dried basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, cook chicken and onion over medium-high heat until browned.
3. Add garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Stir in heavy cream and Parmesan cheese; bring to a simmer.
5. Remove from heat and stir in basil.
6. In a separate pot, wilt spinach with 1 tablespoon of water; drain excess moisture.
7. Combine cooked chicken mixture with spinach in a 9×13 inch baking dish.
8. Sprinkle breadcrumbs on top.
9. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Baked cinnamon apple oatmeal casserole
Warm up your mornings with this delicious Baked Cinnamon Apple Oatmeal Casserole! A perfect blend of comforting oats, sweet apples, and warm spices, this recipe is sure to become a favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups rolled oats
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1/2 cup diced apples (about 2-3 medium-sized)
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– 1 egg, beaten
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine oats, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together milk, diced apples, and melted butter.
4. Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and stir until combined.
5. Pour into a 9×13-inch baking dish and bake for 35-40 minutes or until lightly golden brown.
6. Remove from oven and let cool for a few minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Green bean and mushroom casserole
A comforting, creamy casserole that combines tender green beans and earthy mushrooms with a rich, buttery sauce. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh green beans, trimmed
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 1 cup cream of mushroom soup
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. Cook green beans according to package instructions until tender; set aside.
3. In a large skillet, sauté mushrooms and onion in butter until tender. Add paprika and cook for an additional minute.
4. In a separate bowl, combine cream of mushroom soup, milk, salt, and pepper. Stir until smooth.
5. In a 9×13-inch baking dish, arrange green beans in an even layer. Top with mushroom mixture, then sprinkle cheese evenly.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until hot and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Pumpkin spice bread pudding casserole
Warm up to the flavors of fall with this pumpkin spice bread pudding casserole, perfect for a chilly evening or holiday gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 loaf stale pumpkin spice bread (about 1 pound), cut into 1-inch cubes
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 2 large eggs
– 1/2 cup chopped walnuts (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together melted butter, heavy cream, sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
3. Add bread cubes and stir until well coated.
4. Pour mixture into a 9×13-inch baking dish.
5. If using walnuts, sprinkle on top.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until golden brown and set.
7. Remove from oven and let cool slightly before serving.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Enjoy your warm and cozy pumpkin spice bread pudding casserole!
Summary
Get cozy this fall with these delicious casserole recipes! From breakfast to dinner, and even dessert, there’s something for everyone. Pumpkin and sausage, butternut squash and sage, sweet potato and black bean – these casseroles are packed with autumnal flavors. Try apple and cinnamon French toast or spiced pear and oat crumble for a sweet treat. For a savory option, go for creamy chicken and wild rice or beef and mushroom shepherd’s pie. Whether you’re in the mood for comfort food or a healthy meal, these 20 recipes will keep you warm and satisfied all season long.
