7 Christmas Dinner Casseroles That Practically Cook Themselves

As the holiday season approaches, I often find myself searching for easy yet satisfying dishes for our Christmas dinner. Casseroles have become my go-to solution. They’re not only convenient but also allow for stress-free meal preparation. I’ve compiled a list of seven delightful casseroles that can cook themselves while you enjoy time with loved ones. Each has its own unique flavor profile, and the best part? You’re just a few steps away from making your dinner memorable.

Sale
Crock-Pot 7 Quart Oval Manual Slow Cooker, Stainless Steel (SCV700-S-BR), Versatile Cookware for...
  • Generous Capacity: 7-quart slow cooker that comfortably serves 9+ people or fits a 7-pound roast
  • Cooking Flexibility: High or low slow cooking settings, with convenient warm function for ideal serving...
  • Convenient: Set it and forget it feature enables you to cook while at work or performing daily tasks

Creamy Chicken and Mushroom Casserole

comforting creamy chicken casserole

Creamy Chicken and Mushroom Casserole is a comforting, hearty dish that brings together tender chicken, earthy mushrooms, and a rich, creamy sauce, all baked to golden perfection. This casserole is perfect for holiday gatherings or cozy family dinners, offering a satisfying blend of flavors that will warm you up from the inside out.

Ingredients Quantity
Cooked chicken, shredded 3 cups
Mushrooms, sliced 2 cups
Cream of mushroom soup 2 cans (10.5 oz)
Sour cream 1 cup
Chicken broth 1 cup
Cooked rice 2 cups
Cheddar cheese, shredded 1 cup
Olive oil 2 tablespoons
Onion, chopped 1 medium
Garlic, minced 2 cloves
Salt 1 teaspoon
Pepper ½ teaspoon
Paprika 1 teaspoon
Parsley, chopped (for garnish) Optional

Cooking Steps:

  1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Sauté the Vegetables: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for about 3 minutes until it becomes translucent. Then, add the sliced mushrooms and minced garlic, cooking for an additional 5-7 minutes until the mushrooms are tender and any liquid has evaporated.
  3. Combine the Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, sautéed mushroom mixture, cream of mushroom soup, sour cream, chicken broth, cooked rice, salt, pepper, and paprika. Stir everything together until well combined.
  4. Transfer to Baking Dish: Pour the mixture into a greased 9×13 inch (or similar size) baking dish, spreading it evenly.
  5. Add Cheese: Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top of the casserole.
  6. Bake: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and place it in the preheated oven. Bake for 25 minutes covered, then remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and lightly golden.
  7. Garnish and Serve: Once cooked, remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired, then serve warm and enjoy the comforting flavors!

This creamy chicken and mushroom casserole is sure to be a hit at any holiday meal or family gathering!

Sale
TrendPlain 16oz/470ml Glass Olive Oil Sprayer for Cooking – 2 in 1 Olive Oil Dispenser Bottle for...
  • Lifetime Assurance: We stand behind the quality of our oil dispenser for kitchen. If you experience any...
  • Dual Dispensing: This oil mister offers both spray and pour options for total control while cooking....
  • Precision Spray Nozzle: The olive oil spray bottle features a nozzle that delivers a fine mist or steady...

Cheesy Broccoli and Rice Casserole

cheesy broccoli rice casserole

Cheesy Broccoli and Rice Casserole is a delightful and nutritious dish that combines tender broccoli florets, fluffy rice, and a creamy cheese sauce, making it a perfect side dish or a comforting main course. This casserole not only satisfies the cravings for something creamy and cheesy, but it also packs in the goodness of vegetables, making it a tasty addition to your holiday feast or family dinners.

Ingredients Quantity
Broccoli florets 4 cups
Cooked rice 2 cups
Cheddar cheese, shredded 2 cups
Cream of mushroom soup 1 can (10.5 oz)
Milk 1 cup
Onion, chopped 1 medium
Garlic, minced 2 cloves
Olive oil 2 tablespoons
Salt 1 teaspoon
Pepper ½ teaspoon
Paprika 1 teaspoon
Breadcrumbs (optional) ½ cup
Butter (for breadcrumbs, optional) 2 tablespoons

Cooking Steps:

  1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Sauté the Vegetables: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for about 3 minutes until it becomes translucent. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
  3. Prepare the Broccoli: While sautéing the onions and garlic, blanch the broccoli florets in boiling water for about 3 minutes, then drain and rinse them under cold water to stop the cooking process. This keeps them bright green and tender but still crisp.
  4. Combine the Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked rice, blanched broccoli, sautéed onion and garlic, cream of mushroom soup, milk, salt, pepper, and paprika. Stir everything together until well mixed.
  5. Add Cheese: Fold in 1 ½ cups of the shredded cheddar cheese into the mixture and stir until combined.
  6. Transfer to Baking Dish: Pour the mixture into a greased 9×13 inch (or similar size) baking dish, spreading it evenly.
  7. Top with Remaining Cheese: Sprinkle the remaining ½ cup of shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top of the casserole. If desired, melt the butter and mix it with the breadcrumbs to create a crunchy topping. Sprinkle the buttery breadcrumbs over the cheese.
  8. Bake: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and the edges are golden.
  9. Serve: Once cooked, remove the casserole from the oven and allow it to cool for a few minutes. Serve warm and enjoy the creamy, cheesy goodness alongside your favorite holiday dishes!

This Cheesy Broccoli and Rice Casserole is sure to become a favorite for both its delightful flavors and its easy preparation!

Sale
Fullstar The Original Pro Chopper - Vegetable Chopper and Spiralizer, Food Chopper with Container,...
  • The Original Pro Chopper – TikTok’s favorite veggie slicer and one of the top-rated kitchen gadgets...
  • Easy Meal Prep with Rust-Resistant Blades – Perfect for those who want to eat healthier but don’t...
  • 5-Star Design for Everyday Cooking – Built for comfort and precision. The soft-grip TPU handle offers...

Traditional Turkey and Stuffing Bake

hearty turkey stuffing casserole

Traditional Turkey and Stuffing Bake is a hearty and comforting dish that brings together moist turkey, savory stuffing, and aromatic herbs, making it an ideal centerpiece for any holiday gathering. This casserole combines the best flavors of Thanksgiving into a single dish that’s easy to prepare and perfect for leftovers, ensuring everyone gets to enjoy the taste of turkey and stuffing in every bite.

Ingredients Quantity
Cooked turkey, shredded 4 cups
Stuffing mix 1 box (6 oz)
Chicken broth 2 cups
Celery, chopped 1 cup
Onion, chopped 1 cup
Butter 4 tablespoons
Dried thyme 1 teaspoon
Dried sage 1 teaspoon
Salt 1 teaspoon
Pepper ½ teaspoon
Egg 1 large
Cream of chicken soup 1 can (10.5 oz)
Gravy (optional) For serving

Cooking Steps:

  1. Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Sauté the Vegetables: In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and celery, and sauté for about 5 minutes until they are softened and fragrant.
  3. Prepare the Stuffing: In a large mixing bowl, combine the stuffing mix, sautéed onion and celery, dried thyme, dried sage, salt, and pepper. Pour in the chicken broth gradually, mixing until the stuffing is moist but not soggy.
  4. Add Turkey and Soup: Fold in the shredded turkey and the cream of chicken soup into the stuffing mixture until fully incorporated. If necessary, adjust the seasoning to taste.
  5. Transfer to Baking Dish: Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish. Spread the turkey and stuffing mixture evenly inside the dish.
  6. Prepare Egg Mixture: In a small bowl, beat the egg with the remaining 2 tablespoons of melted butter. Drizzle this mixture over the top of the casserole to help bind the dish as it bakes.
  7. Cover and Bake: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and place it in the preheated oven. Bake for 30 minutes.
  8. Uncover and Brown: After 30 minutes, remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the casserole is heated through.
  9. Serve: Once baked, let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving. Serve with warm gravy on the side, if desired.

Enjoy this delicious Traditional Turkey and Stuffing Bake as a wonderful addition to your holiday table!

CIRCLE JOY Gravity Electric Salt and Pepper Grinder Set Automatic Salt and Pepper Grinder Set with...
  • 【Automatic Operation】The gravity salt and pepper grinder set electric uses advanced technology for...
  • 【Adjustable Coarseness】This electric pepper grinder set can meet your grinding needs. Easily adjust...
  • 【Upgraded Salt and Pepper Set】The upgraded automatic salt and pepper grinder set has a long lifespan...

Sweet Potato and Marshmallow Delight

sweet potato marshmallow casserole

Sweet Potato and Marshmallow Delight is a delightful and indulgent casserole that perfectly balances the earthy sweetness of sweet potatoes with the gooey richness of marshmallows. This festive dish is a favorite at holiday gatherings, adding a touch of nostalgia and warmth to the Christmas dinner table, while also being simple to prepare and incredibly satisfying.

Ingredients Quantity
Sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed 4 cups
Brown sugar 1/2 cup
Butter 1/4 cup
Milk 1/2 cup
Vanilla extract 1 teaspoon
Eggs 2 large
Salt 1/2 teaspoon
Ground cinnamon 1/2 teaspoon
Mini marshmallows 2 cups

Cooking Steps:

  1. Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Cook the Sweet Potatoes: In a large pot, bring water to a boil. Add the cubed sweet potatoes and cook until they are tender, about 15-20 minutes. Drain and set aside to cool slightly.
  3. Mash the Sweet Potatoes: In a large mixing bowl, mash the cooked sweet potatoes until smooth.
  4. Mix in Ingredients: Add the brown sugar, melted butter, milk, vanilla extract, eggs, salt, and ground cinnamon to the mashed sweet potatoes. Mix well until all ingredients are fully combined and smooth.
  5. Transfer to Baking Dish: Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish. Pour the sweet potato mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread it out evenly.
  6. Add Mini Marshmallows: Sprinkle the mini marshmallows evenly over the top of the sweet potato mixture, covering it completely.
  7. Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 25-30 minutes, or until the marshmallows are puffed and golden brown.
  8. Serve: Once baked, remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Serve warm as a sweet side dish to complement your holiday feast. Enjoy!
Sale
Ninja Crispi 4-in-1 Portable Glass Air Fryer Cooking System, 1500W, 4QT & 6-Cup TempWare Glass...
  • ALL-IN-ONE SYSTEM: Includes the Ninja Crispi PowerPod, 4-qt and 6-cup CleanCrisp glass containers, and 2...
  • CRISPI POWERPOD: The power of a full-sized air fryer now in the palm of your hand
  • SMALL & LARGE BATCH CONTAINERS: 6-cup container cooks a personal sized meal in 7 mins while the 4 QT fits...

Savory Ham and Potato Bake

hearty ham and potato casserole

Savory Ham and Potato Bake is a hearty casserole that combines tender potatoes with rich, savory ham, topped with a creamy sauce and cheese. This comforting dish is perfect for holiday gatherings or family dinners, providing a satisfying and flavorful option that is both easy to prepare and absolutely delicious.

Ingredients Quantity
Diced cooked ham 2 cups
Potatoes, peeled and sliced 4 cups
Onion, chopped 1 medium
Cream of mushroom soup 1 can (10.5 oz)
Milk 1/2 cup
Shredded cheese (cheddar) 2 cups
Salt 1/2 teaspoon
Ground black pepper 1/4 teaspoon
Garlic powder 1/2 teaspoon
Olive oil 2 tablespoons
Fresh parsley (optional) For garnish

Cooking Steps:

  1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Prepare Potatoes: In a large pot, bring water to a boil. Add the sliced potatoes and cook them for about 5-7 minutes until they are slightly tender but not fully cooked. Drain and set aside.
  3. Sauté Onion: In a skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for about 3-4 minutes, or until they become soft and translucent.
  4. Mix Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the diced ham, partially cooked potatoes, sautéed onions, cream of mushroom soup, milk, salt, black pepper, and garlic powder. Stir well until everything is evenly mixed.
  5. Transfer to Baking Dish: Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish. Pour the ham and potato mixture into the prepared dish and spread it out evenly.
  6. Add Cheese: Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top of the mixture.
  7. Bake: Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes. After 25 minutes, remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the top is golden and the potatoes are fully cooked.
  8. Garnish and Serve: Once done, remove the casserole from the oven and allow it to cool for a few minutes. Optionally, garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving. Enjoy your savory ham and potato bake!
Elite Gourmet EGC115B Easy Egg Cooker Electric 7-Egg Capacity, Soft, Medium, Hard-Boiled Egg Cooker...
  • SEVEN EGG CAPACITY: Cook up to 7 eggs in soft, medium, or hard-boiled firmness, while saving time and...
  • EASE OF USE: Fill pre-marked measuring cup with water to desired doneness & add to the cooking plate,...
  • VERSATILITY: Whether pairing with avocado toast or preparing deviled eggs, the Elite Gourmet Easy Egg...

Cranberry Glazed Meatball Casserole

cranberry meatball casserole recipe

Cranberry Glazed Meatball Casserole is a delightful and festive dish that packs a punch of flavors with savory meatballs coated in a sweet and tangy cranberry sauce. The combination of tender meatballs and a rich glaze, topped with cheese and baked to perfection makes this casserole a perfect addition to your holiday gatherings or cozy dinners.

Ingredients Quantity
Frozen meatballs 1 pound
Cranberry sauce 1 can (15 oz)
Cream cheese 8 oz
Shredded mozzarella cheese 2 cups
Onion, chopped 1 medium
Olive oil 2 tablespoons
Garlic powder 1 teaspoon
Salt 1/2 teaspoon
Ground black pepper 1/4 teaspoon
Fresh parsley (optional) For garnish

Cooking Steps:

  1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Sauté Onion: In a skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for about 3-4 minutes, or until they are soft and translucent.
  3. Prepare Glaze: In a mixing bowl, combine the cranberry sauce, softened cream cheese, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Stir until smooth and well combined.
  4. Combine Meatballs and Sauce: In a large baking dish, place the frozen meatballs and pour the cranberry cream cheese mixture over them. Gently stir to coat the meatballs evenly with the sauce.
  5. Top with Cheese: Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese evenly on top of the meatballs and sauce mixture.
  6. Bake: Place the baking dish into the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the meatballs are heated through and the cheese is bubbly and golden.
  7. Garnish and Serve: Once done, carefully remove the casserole from the oven and let it sit for a few minutes. Optionally, sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over the top before serving. Enjoy your cranberry glazed meatball casserole!
Sale
AWLKIM Meat Thermometer Digital - Instant Read Waterproof Food Thermometer with Backlight for...
  • Ultra-Fast & Accurate Digital Meat Thermometer - Our instant-read meat thermometer features a 1.7mm...
  • Multi-Purpose Cooking Thermometer - Ideal for meats, liquids, candy, sourdough and even oil! Use this...
  • Effortless Use, Day or Night-Simply unfold & read! Features a bright backlit LCD for crystal-clear...

Vegetarian Shepherd’s Pie

hearty vegetarian comfort dish

Vegetarian Shepherd’s Pie is a hearty and comforting dish that is perfect for festive gatherings or cold winter nights. This unique take on the classic shepherd’s pie substitutes traditional meat with a savory mix of vegetables, lentils, and aromatic herbs, all topped with a creamy mashed potato layer. It’s not only delicious but also packed with nutrients, making it an ideal choice for both vegetarians and meat-lovers alike.

Ingredients Quantity
Olive oil 2 tablespoons
Onion, chopped 1 medium
Carrots, diced 2 medium
Celery stalks, diced 2 stalks
Garlic, minced 3 cloves
Mushrooms, sliced 8 oz
Cooked lentils (canned or boiled) 1 cup
Vegetable broth 1 cup
Tomato paste 2 tablespoons
Dried thyme 1 teaspoon
Dried rosemary 1 teaspoon
Salt 1/2 teaspoon
Ground black pepper 1/4 teaspoon
Frozen peas 1 cup
Potatoes, peeled and cubed 4 large
Milk 1/2 cup
Butter 4 tablespoons
Shredded cheddar cheese (optional) 1 cup

Cooking Steps:

  1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
  2. Cook Potatoes: In a large pot, add the cubed potatoes and cover with water. Bring to a boil and cook for 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender. Drain and return them to the pot.
  3. Mash Potatoes: Add milk and butter to the drained potatoes. Mash until smooth and creamy. Set aside.
  4. Sauté Vegetables: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, diced carrots, and diced celery. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes, or until the vegetables are softened.
  5. Add Garlic and Mushrooms: Stir in minced garlic and sliced mushrooms. Cook for another 5 minutes, or until the mushrooms have released their moisture and are tender.
  6. Incorporate Lentils and Seasonings: Add the cooked lentils, vegetable broth, tomato paste, dried thyme, dried rosemary, salt, and black pepper to the skillet. Mix well and let it simmer for about 5 minutes until heated through.
  7. Add Peas: Stir in the frozen peas and cook for another 2-3 minutes until they are warmed.
  8. Assemble Pie: Spoon the vegetable and lentil mixture into a greased baking dish, spreading it out evenly. Top with the mashed potatoes, spreading them out to cover the filling completely.
  9. Optional Cheese Topping: If using, sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese on top of the mashed potatoes for added flavor.
  10. Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden and the edges are bubbling.
  11. Serve: Once done baking, remove from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your delicious vegetarian shepherd’s pie!