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Writer's pictureTurner Powers

5 Easy Family-Friendly Casserole Recipes (Perfect for Picky Eaters!)


Casseroles—are you a fan or do you avoid them? In my house, it’s a bit of a mixed bag. I absolutely love them; they’re my go-to for quick, delicious family meals. My husband? Not so much. He’s not big on the idea of casseroles, but here’s a secret: most of the meals he devours come straight from a casserole dish—he just doesn’t know it! (Let’s keep that between us.)


What makes casseroles so great? They’re easy to prepare, often involve minimal cleanup, and they make feeding the whole family a breeze, with leftovers that taste just as good the next day. And let’s be real, there’s nothing worse than reheating leftovers only for them to taste lackluster. With these recipes, you’ll never have that problem.

Here are five casserole recipes that are not only healthy and family-friendly but also reheat beautifully. Perfect for busy weeknights, these dishes are sure to become regulars at your dinner table—whether you’re a casserole lover or not.


1. Taco Casserole


This taco casserole combines all the best parts of taco night—savory meat, black beans, cheese, and crispy tortillas—into one easy-to-bake dish. It's a surefire hit for picky eaters and adults alike.


Ingredients:

  • 1 lb ground beef or turkey

  • 1 packet taco seasoning

  • 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed

  • 1 cup salsa

  • 2 cups crushed tortilla chips

  • 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or Mexican blend)

  • 1 cup corn (optional)

  • Sour cream, avocado, and lettuce for serving

Instructions:

  1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).

  2. In a skillet, cook the ground beef or turkey until browned. Stir in taco seasoning according to the package instructions.

  3. In a greased casserole dish, layer half the crushed tortilla chips, followed by the cooked meat, black beans, salsa, and corn (if using).

  4. Top with the remaining tortilla chips and shredded cheese.

  5. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

  6. Serve with sour cream, avocado, and lettuce for a complete taco experience.



2. Chicken Cheddar Broccoli and Quinoa Casserole


This protein-packed casserole blends tender chicken, nutritious quinoa, and fiber-rich broccoli in a cheesy sauce for a meal that’s as comforting as it is wholesome.


Ingredients:

  • 1 cup quinoa, rinsed

  • 2 cups chicken broth

  • 2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded

  • 2 cups broccoli florets

  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

  • 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt

  • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard

  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

  1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).

  2. Cook the quinoa in chicken broth according to package instructions.

  3. Steam the broccoli until tender.

  4. In a large bowl, mix the cooked quinoa, chicken, broccoli, Greek yogurt, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.

  5. Transfer the mixture to a greased casserole dish and top with shredded cheddar cheese.

  6. Bake for 20-25 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly.



3. Spaghetti Squash & Meatball Casserole


Looking for a low-carb alternative to traditional pasta? This spaghetti squash casserole with meatballs is light, flavorful, and satisfying without the extra carbs.


Ingredients:

  • 1 large spaghetti squash

  • 1 lb ground turkey or beef

  • 1/2 cup breadcrumbs

  • 1 egg

  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

  • 1 jar marinara sauce

  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

Instructions:

  1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Cut the spaghetti squash in half and remove the seeds. Place it cut-side down on a baking sheet and roast for 35-40 minutes.

  2. While the squash is roasting, mix the ground meat, breadcrumbs, egg, Parmesan, and Italian seasoning in a bowl. Form into small meatballs.

  3. In a skillet, cook the meatballs until browned on all sides.

  4. Once the spaghetti squash is done, scrape out the flesh with a fork to create "noodles."

  5. In a greased casserole dish, layer the spaghetti squash, meatballs, and marinara sauce. Top with shredded mozzarella cheese.

  6. Bake for 20 minutes, until the cheese is melted and golden.



4. Philly Cheesesteak Casserole with Veggies


This lighter take on a Philly cheesesteak swaps the bread for veggies, making it a healthier yet hearty casserole. Packed with bell peppers, onions, and tender beef, it's a winner for the whole family.


Ingredients:

  • 1 lb thinly sliced beef (ribeye or flank steak works well)

  • 1 green bell pepper, sliced

  • 1 red bell pepper, sliced

  • 1 onion, sliced

  • 1 cup mushrooms, sliced

  • 1 cup shredded provolone cheese

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil

  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder

  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

  1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).

  2. In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the onions, bell peppers, and mushrooms, and sauté until softened.

  3. In the same skillet, cook the sliced beef until browned.

  4. In a greased casserole dish, layer the sautéed veggies and beef. Sprinkle with garlic powder, salt, and pepper.

  5. Top with shredded provolone cheese and bake for 15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.



5. Shepherd’s Pie Casserole


This healthy twist on shepherd’s pie swaps regular mashed potatoes for sweet potatoes, making it lighter but just as comforting. It's the perfect balance of savory meat and creamy potatoes.


Ingredients:

  • 1 lb ground turkey or beef

  • 1 onion, diced

  • 2 carrots, diced

  • 1/2 cup peas

  • 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed

  • 1/4 cup milk (dairy or plant-based)

  • 1 tablespoon butter or olive oil

  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder

  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

  1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).

  2. Boil the sweet potatoes in salted water until tender. Mash with milk, butter, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.

  3. In a skillet, cook the ground meat and onions until browned. Stir in the carrots and peas, and cook until tender.

  4. Transfer the meat mixture to a greased casserole dish, and spread the mashed sweet potatoes on top.

  5. Bake for 20-25 minutes, until the top is golden and slightly crispy.



These easy and healthy casserole recipes prove that even a casserole skeptic can be won over. Whether you're sneaking them into the weekly menu or proudly making them a family staple, these dishes are packed with flavor and nutrition—plus, they reheat beautifully for next-day lunches or dinners!


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