As the holiday season approaches, many of us are already thinking about our favorite Thanksgiving traditions. For some, that means gathering around the table with family and friends to share a delicious meal. And for others, it’s all about the leftovers – specifically, the creative and comforting casseroles that can be crafted from those leftover turkey, mashed potatoes, and stuffing.
Whatever your approach may be, we’ve got you covered with our collection of 20 hearty Thanksgiving casserole recipes. From classic green bean and sweet potato casseroles to more adventurous options like wild rice and mushroom or broccoli cheese, there’s something for everyone in this diverse lineup. And the best part? These recipes are designed to be easy to make and serve a crowd, making them perfect for your holiday gathering.
Stay tuned for our complete list of Thanksgiving casserole recipes – it’s sure to become your new go-to resource for a stress-free and delicious holiday meal.
Green Bean Casserole with Crispy Onions
A Thanksgiving staple gets a crunchy twist with the addition of crispy onions on top! This recipe is easy to make and sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh or frozen green beans, trimmed
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 1 cup cream of mushroom soup
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1 1/2 cups French-fried onions
– 1/4 cup grated cheddar cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a large skillet, sauté green beans and chopped onion until tender.
3. In a separate bowl, mix cream of mushroom soup, milk, black pepper, and salt.
4. Add the soup mixture to the skillet with green beans and onions; stir until combined.
5. Pour into a 9×13-inch baking dish.
6. Sprinkle crispy French-fried onions on top (and grated cheddar cheese if using).
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Sweet Potato Casserole with Pecan Streusel
This classic Southern side dish gets a crunchy twist with the addition of a pecan streusel topping, perfect for holidays and special occasions.
Ingredients:
– 2 large sweet potatoes, cooked and mashed
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– 1 cup pecan halves
– 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large bowl, combine mashed sweet potatoes, sugar, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
3. Stir in heavy cream and melted butter until smooth.
4. Pour mixture into a 9×13-inch baking dish.
5. To make streusel topping, mix pecan halves, flour, and baking powder in a small bowl.
6. Sprinkle streusel topping evenly over sweet potato mixture.
7. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Turkey and Stuffing Casserole
This hearty casserole combines the flavors of roasted turkey with savory stuffing, cranberry sauce, and melted cheese. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or holiday meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb cooked turkey breast, diced
– 1 cup homemade or store-bought stuffing
– 1/2 cup frozen peas and carrots
– 1/4 cup cranberry sauce
– 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup milk
– 1 tsp dried sage
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine diced turkey, stuffing, peas and carrots, cranberry sauce, and shredded cheese.
3. Pour in milk and mix until well combined.
4. Season with salt, pepper, and dried sage.
5. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish and smooth out the top.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until hot and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Creamy Cornbread Casserole
This comforting casserole combines the warmth of cornbread with the richness of cream, making it a perfect side dish for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 cup yellow cornmeal
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 1 large egg
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, melted
– 1 can (14.75 oz) creamed corn
– 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, cornmeal, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together milk, egg, and melted butter.
4. Add dry ingredients to wet ingredients; stir until just combined.
5. Pour in creamed corn and shredded cheese; mix until smooth.
6. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and pour in batter.
7. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Broccoli Cheese Casserole
A creamy, cheesy, and deliciously comforting casserole that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion. This Broccoli Cheese Casserole recipe is easy to make and packed with nutritious broccoli and flavorful cheddar cheese.
Ingredients:
– 3 cups broccoli florets
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1/4 cup butter, melted
– 1 cup crushed crackers (Ritz or saltines)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a large skillet, steam broccoli until tender.
3. In a separate bowl, mix melted butter, milk, and cheddar cheese until smooth.
4. Combine steamed broccoli and cheese mixture in a 9×13 inch baking dish.
5. Top with crushed crackers and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the top is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Pumpkin Spice French Toast Casserole
Start your day off right with this autumnal twist on traditional French toast, packed with the warm spices of pumpkin season.
Ingredients:
– 1 loaf Challah bread, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 2 large eggs
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– 2 tbsp granulated sugar
– 1 tsp ground cinnamon
– 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
– 1/4 tsp ground cloves
– 1/2 cup pumpkin puree
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
– Maple syrup, for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, heavy cream, sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves.
3. Add bread cubes and pumpkin puree; toss until bread is evenly coated.
4. Pour mixture into a 9×13-inch baking dish.
5. Drizzle melted butter over the top.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until golden brown.
7. Serve warm with maple syrup, if desired.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Wild Rice and Mushroom Casserole
A hearty and flavorful casserole that combines the nutty taste of wild rice with the earthy flavor of mushrooms, perfect for a comforting meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup wild rice
– 2 cups water or vegetable broth
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, chopped
– 3 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook wild rice according to package instructions using 2 cups of water or broth. Set aside.
3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add chopped onion and cook until translucent.
4. Add sliced mushrooms and cook until they release their liquid and start to brown.
5. Combine cooked wild rice, mushroom mixture, thyme, salt, and pepper in a 9×13 inch baking dish.
6. Top with grated cheddar cheese and bake for 25-30 minutes or until the casserole is hot and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Mac and Cheese Casserole with Bacon
This indulgent casserole is a staple comfort food that’s easy to make and sure to please. With the added smokiness of crispy bacon, it’s a perfect dish for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz macaroni
– 2 cups milk
– 2 cups grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 6 slices of cooked bacon, crumbled
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 2 tablespoons butter
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 saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour, salt, and pepper to make a roux, cooking for 1 minute.
4. Gradually add milk, whisking continuously. Bring mixture to a simmer and cook until thickened.
5. Remove from heat and stir in cheddar and Parmesan cheese until melted. Add cooked macaroni and crumbled bacon; mix well.
6. Transfer the macaroni mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish and top with additional grated cheese if desired.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Leftover Turkey Tetrazzini Casserole
Transform your leftover turkey into a creamy, comforting casserole perfect for a weeknight dinner or weekend meal. This recipe is an easy and delicious way to use up those Thanksgiving or holiday leftovers.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups leftover cooked turkey
– 1 cup cream of mushroom soup
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup frozen peas and carrots
– 1 cup cooked spaghetti or egg noodles
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine turkey, soup, milk, cheese, parsley, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
3. Add the peas and carrots, and stir until combined.
4. Cook spaghetti or egg noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
5. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray.
6. Layer the turkey mixture, noodles, and remaining turkey mixture in the prepared dish.
7. Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 25-30 minutes.
8. Remove foil and continue baking for an additional 10-15 minutes, until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Spinach and Artichoke Casserole
This creamy casserole combines the flavors of spinach, artichokes, and Parmesan cheese for a satisfying side dish or main course. Perfect for a family dinner or a potluck gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 (14 oz) can artichoke hearts, drained and chopped
– 1 package frozen chopped spinach, thawed and drained
– 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 1/4 cup lemon juice
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 6-8 oz lasagna noodles
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine chopped artichoke hearts, spinach, Parmesan cheese, mayonnaise, lemon juice, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Cook lasagna noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
4. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray.
5. Layer the casserole by placing half of the noodle mixture in the bottom of the dish, followed by half of the spinach-artichoke mixture. Repeat the layers.
6. Top with Parmesan cheese and bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Cranberry Apple Sweet Potato Casserole
This casserole combines the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes with the tartness of cranberries and the crunch of fresh apples, creating a delightful flavor profile that’s perfect for fall gatherings.
Ingredients:
– 2 large sweet potatoes, cooked and mashed
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup chopped fresh cranberries
– 1 large apple, peeled and diced
– 1/2 cup crushed pecans (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large bowl, combine mashed sweet potatoes, sugar, flour, salt, nutmeg, and cinnamon.
3. Stir in melted butter, heavy cream, cranberries, and apple.
4. Pour mixture into a 9×13-inch baking dish.
5. Top with crushed pecans (if using).
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until golden brown.
Cheesy Hash Brown Casserole
A comforting casserole perfect for brunch or a weeknight dinner, this recipe combines the simplicity of hash browns with the richness of melted cheese.
Ingredients:
– 2 large potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup grated mozzarella cheese
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine sliced potatoes and softened butter. Toss until the potatoes are well coated.
3. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray.
4. Arrange half of the potato mixture in the prepared dish.
5. Sprinkle half of the cheddar and mozzarella cheese over the potatoes.
6. Repeat layers, starting with the remaining potatoes, then the remaining cheese.
7. Pour heavy cream over the top layer of cheese.
8. Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 45 minutes.
9. Remove foil and continue baking for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the top is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 60-65 minutes
Chicken and Dumpling Casserole
Warm up with a comforting classic: Chicken and Dumpling Casserole!
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 2 cups mixed vegetables (e.g., peas, carrots, corn)
– 1 package of refrigerated biscuits (10-12 count)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large skillet, sauté chicken, onion, and garlic until cooked through. Add flour, paprika, salt, and pepper; stir to combine.
3. In a separate saucepan, bring chicken broth and heavy cream to a simmer.
4. Add mixed vegetables to the saucepan and cook for 2-3 minutes or until tender.
5. Arrange chicken mixture in a 9×13-inch baking dish. Top with dumplings (biscuits) and pour vegetable mixture over the top.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until casserole is hot and bubbly.
Cooking Time: Approximately 35-40 minutes
Butternut Squash and Sage Casserole
This comforting casserole combines the warm flavors of roasted butternut squash, crispy sage leaves, and creamy cheddar cheese, perfect for a cozy fall evening.
Ingredients:
– 1 large butternut squash (about 2 lbs), peeled, seeded, and cubed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 2 cups grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 6-8 fresh sage leaves
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Toss the squash cubes with olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast for 30 minutes or until tender.
3. In a large skillet, sauté the butter, garlic, and sage leaves until fragrant.
4. In a separate bowl, combine the roasted squash, cheddar cheese, and heavy cream. Mix well.
5. Add the cooked squash mixture to the skillet with the sage-butter mixture. Stir until combined.
6. Transfer the casserole to a 9×13-inch baking dish and bake for an additional 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 55-60 minutes
Cornbread Sausage Stuffing Casserole
This comforting casserole combines the flavors of cornbread, sausage, and herbs to create a satisfying side dish perfect for holidays or family gatherings.
Ingredients:
– 1 (16.25 oz) package cornbread mix
– 1 pound sweet Italian sausage, casings removed
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 onion, diced
– 3 celery stalks, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried sage
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 cup chicken broth
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. Cook sausage in a large skillet over medium-high heat, breaking up with spoon, until browned and cooked through.
3. In a separate bowl, prepare cornbread mix according to package instructions.
4. Add butter, onion, celery, garlic, sage, salt, and pepper to the prepared cornbread mix; stir until combined.
5. Pour cooked sausage and chicken broth over the cornbread mixture; stir until well combined.
6. Transfer mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish and bake for 30-35 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Pumpkin Cheesecake Casserole
Savor the flavors of fall with this creamy Pumpkin Cheesecake Casserole, perfect for a cozy evening or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 16 oz cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup canned pumpkin puree
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup heavy cream
– Salt to taste
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a medium bowl, mix crust ingredients; press into a 9×13-inch baking dish.
3. Beat cream cheese until smooth; add granulated sugar and pumpkin puree. Mix well.
4. Beat in eggs and vanilla extract.
5. Pour cheesecake mixture over crust.
6. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until edges are set and center is slightly jiggly.
7. Let cool completely before serving. Dust with confectioners’ sugar, if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Brussels Sprouts and Bacon Casserole
This classic comfort food recipe combines the earthy sweetness of Brussels sprouts with the smoky richness of bacon, all wrapped up in a golden brown casserole. A perfect side dish for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
– 6 slices of bacon, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 cup grated cheddar cheese
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, cook the bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add the olive oil and sauté the chopped onion until softened.
4. Add the Brussels sprouts to the skillet and cook for 5 minutes, or until tender.
5. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked sprouts, bacon, salt, and pepper.
6. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish and top with grated cheddar cheese.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the casserole is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Ham and Swiss Potato Casserole
This hearty casserole is a perfect blend of savory ham, melted Swiss cheese, and tender potatoes. It’s an easy-to-make, crowd-pleasing dish that’s perfect for weeknight dinners or weekend gatherings.
Ingredients:
• 2 large potatoes, thinly sliced
• 1/2 cup diced cooked ham
• 1 cup shredded Swiss cheese
• 1/4 cup milk
• 2 tablespoons butter
• Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine sliced potatoes, diced ham, and shredded Swiss cheese.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together milk and melted butter. Pour the mixture over the potato mixture and stir until well combined.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish and cover with aluminum foil.
6. Bake for 45 minutes, then remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until potatoes are tender and top is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 60-70 minutes
Pecan Pie Bread Pudding Casserole
This casserole combines the warm spices and gooey pecans of traditional pecan pie with the comfort of bread pudding, perfect for a cozy dessert or brunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 loaf stale French bread, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1/2 cup chopped pecans
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Pinch of salt
– Whipped cream or ice cream for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together sugars, eggs, and vanilla extract.
3. Add bread cubes, pecans, and melted butter; toss until well coated.
4. Pour mixture into a 9×13-inch baking dish.
5. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until golden brown and set.
6. Serve warm with whipped cream or ice cream, if desired.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Loaded Mashed Potato Casserole
A creamy, comforting casserole packed with mashed potatoes, crispy bacon, and melted cheddar cheese.
Ingredients:
– 4 large potatoes, peeled and chopped into 1-inch cubes
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 6 slices of cooked bacon, crumbled
– 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Boil the chopped potatoes until tender, then drain and mash with butter and milk.
3. In a separate bowl, mix together grated cheddar cheese and crumbled bacon.
4. Add the mashed potatoes to the cheese mixture and stir until combined.
5. Transfer the potato mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish and top with shredded mozzarella cheese.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the casserole is golden brown and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Summary
Get ready for a warm and cozy Thanksgiving with these 20 deliciously comforting casserole recipes. From classic Green Bean Casserole with Crispy Onions to Sweet Potato Casserole with Pecan Streusel, there’s something for everyone on this list. Try Turkey and Stuffing Casserole or Creamy Cornbread Casserole for a twist on traditional Thanksgiving dishes. And don’t forget about the sweet treats – Pumpkin Spice French Toast Casserole and Pumpkin Cheesecake Casserole are sure to be hits. Whatever your taste, these hearty casseroles will bring joy to your holiday table.