57 Casserole Ideas Offering a Little Lift When December Gets Busy
December doesn’t always leave much room for elaborate cooking, but 57 casserole ideas can keep meals easy and comforting. Sometimes the best answer to a packed calendar is a dish you can pop in the oven and forget about for a bit. Whether you need dinner in a hurry or something crowd-friendly, casseroles fit most situations.

Hearty Sausage Casserole

Cold nights become way more cozy when you serve this Hearty Sausage Casserole at your table. The aroma coming from the oven hints at something memorable just waiting to be scooped. I find it works perfectly for feeding hungry crowds in December. Guests are often surprised by how satisfying every bite feels as temperatures drop.
Get the Recipe: Hearty Sausage Casserole
Savory French Onion Casserole

A bubbling pan filled with this Savory French Onion Casserole turns any dinner into a special occasion. Rich flavors build up beneath a golden topping you’ll want to break through. Sharing it often gets people talking about how comfort food can be both bold and classic. If you’re looking for an easy way to lift spirits, this casserole works wonders.
Get the Recipe: Savory French Onion Casserole
Sweet Potato Casserole With Marshmallows

Joy seems to fill the kitchen as soon as you spot this Sweet Potato Casserole With Marshmallows on the holiday table. Fluffy marshmallows add a whimsical touch that brightens dreary winter evenings. The first spoonful always draws smiles. I’ve noticed it disappears fast, no matter how much you make.
Get the Recipe: Sweet Potato Casserole With Marshmallows
Hearty Stuffed Pepper Casserole

Recipes that can warm up a long night often start with dishes like this Hearty Stuffed Pepper Casserole. A medley of comforting flavors comes together in a way that feels homey and generous. I rely on it for busy December weeknights since it’s both filling and easy to prepare. Each serving promises plenty of praise.
Get the Recipe: Hearty Stuffed Pepper Casserole
Easy Cornbread Casserole

Fragrant, golden, and oh-so moist, this Easy Cornbread Casserole delivers familiar tastes without the fuss. Bringing it to a gathering always results in requests for the recipe. You’ll love how well it pairs with soups or hearty stews through cold months. The comfort is instant from the first bite.
Get the Recipe: Easy Cornbread Casserole
Hearty Slow Cooker Cowboy Casserole

With barely any effort, you can fill your house with the irresistible scent of this Hearty Slow Cooker Cowboy Casserole. Layers of robust ingredients make it perfect for prepping ahead during busy weeks. I set and forget, then let the anticipation build until dinner. Everyone appreciates how fulfilling it is after a long day out in the winter chill.
Get the Recipe: Hearty Slow Cooker Cowboy Casserole
Festive Christmas Casserole

Holiday flavors shine bright in this Festive Christmas Casserole, turning any winter gathering into a celebration. One pan makes sharing easy, while warm aromas fill the kitchen. Friends often ask what makes it so memorable. Serving it feels like a tradition you’ll want to keep coming back to every December.
Get the Recipe: Festive Christmas Casserole
Easy Spaghetti Casserole

Sometimes you just want a meal that brings everyone together, and this Easy Spaghetti Casserole does exactly that. It’s perfect for prepping ahead when life gets hectic in December. Each layer promises a taste of home. I love how leftovers manage to get even better the next day.
Get the Recipe: Easy Spaghetti Casserole
Cheesy Potato Casserole

Pulling the lid off this Cheesy Potato Casserole reveals gooey goodness and a golden crust that no one can resist. The blend of flavors always gets folks coming back for seconds. During the busy holiday stretch, it fits right in as a hearty side or main dish. I find it perfect for sharing on cold evenings.
Get the Recipe: Cheesy Potato Casserole
Chicken Bacon Ranch Casserole

People light up when they see this Chicken Bacon Ranch Casserole come out of the oven. Its creamy texture and smoky aroma build anticipation before the first bite. I often take it to potlucks when I really want to leave an impression. Every forkful feels like comfort done right.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Bacon Ranch Casserole
Broccoli Casserole the Whole Family Loves

Bright green and bubbling fresh, this Broccoli Casserole the Whole Family Loves turns vegetables into a reason to cheer. Layers of wholesome goodness deliver winter comfort without being heavy. I notice how plates get scraped clean at family gatherings. Expect requests for seconds and gratitude for bringing something nutritious and delicious.
Get the Recipe: Broccoli Casserole the Whole Family Loves
Hearty Breakfast Casserole

Rise and shine to the warmth packed inside this Hearty Breakfast Casserole. It’s a lifesaver during holiday mornings when you need things to run smoothly. Easy to prep ahead, it means you spend more time with everyone rather than in the kitchen. Winter days just start better with a meal like this.
Get the Recipe: Hearty Breakfast Casserole
Comforting Chicken Pot Pie Casserole

Steaming, crusty, and loaded with flavor, this Comforting Chicken Pot Pie Casserole brings smiles to the table. Guests often pause before the first spoonful, admiring the golden topping. I turn to it whenever I want a feel-good classic while December winds howl outside. The leftovers rarely make it to lunch the next day.
Get the Recipe: Comforting Chicken Pot Pie Casserole
Hearty Vegetable Casserole

Cold months call for bold colors and flavors, and this Hearty Vegetable Casserole answers the call in every way. Layers of roasted veggies create the kind of meal you don’t have to fuss over. I especially love how it helps make weeknight dinners feel stress-free. Even those who avoid veggies usually want seconds.
Get the Recipe: Hearty Vegetable Casserole
Creamy Chicken Casserole

Winter comfort food takes on a new meaning with this Creamy Chicken Casserole. The smooth texture invites everyone to linger over dinner. I turn to this recipe on frosty evenings when only something rich and familiar will do. It always proves just how hearty a simple dish can be.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Chicken Casserole
Hearty Biscuits and Gravy Casserole

Brunch becomes a big event once you bring out this Hearty Biscuits and Gravy Casserole. Warm and savory, it combines traditions with convenience. I love serving it on snowy mornings since plates get cleaned off so quickly. Guests are quick to ask for the recipe, even before breakfast ends.
Get the Recipe: Hearty Biscuits and Gravy Casserole
Green Bean and Bacon Casserole

A snap of smoky flavor and bright veggies come together in this Green Bean and Bacon Casserole. The balance feels just right for those seeking winter comfort with a little crunch. I use it as a side or main and notice how quickly people clear their plates. The unusual combination wins over skeptics every time.
Get the Recipe: Green Bean and Bacon Casserole
Creamy Chicken and Broccoli Casserole

Frosty evenings have a way of inviting second helpings of this Creamy Chicken and Broccoli Casserole. The blend of familiar flavors makes it an instant favorite, even for picky eaters. I prepare it ahead whenever family is visiting. You’ll love the way it brings warmth as soon as it comes out of the oven.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Chicken and Broccoli Casserole
Hearty Cabbage Casserole

Craving something filling without feeling too heavy? This Hearty Cabbage Casserole provides the answer with its simple ingredients and robust flavor. I reach for this recipe when I want comfort without a lot of extra steps. It’s the sort of dish you’ll wish you’d made a double batch of.
Get the Recipe: Hearty Cabbage Casserole
Comforting Chicken Noodle Casserole

Every forkful of this Comforting Chicken Noodle Casserole reminds you of winter afternoons spent indoors. The traditional flavors spark nostalgic memories while making everyone feel cozy. I love how easily this meal can feed a crowd. Even finicky eaters tend to clean their plates.
Get the Recipe: Comforting Chicken Noodle Casserole
Cheesy Hashbrown Casserole

Potlucks and parties often light up when this Cheesy Hashbrown Casserole appears. Melty layers and a golden crust signal something irresistible is about to be served. I make extra, knowing folks come back for more. The texture and warmth are just what December nights call for.
Get the Recipe: Cheesy Hashbrown Casserole
Hearty Cattle Drive Casserole

If you want a stick-to-your-ribs meal that feels like a treat, this Hearty Cattle Drive Casserole is a solid pick. Each bite tells you why people crave comfort food during busy seasons. I find it’s a favorite with anyone after a long, cold day. Gone in minutes, this dish keeps people talking long after dinner is done.
Get the Recipe: Hearty Cattle Drive Casserole
Sweet French Toast Casserole

Holiday mornings feel complete once this Sweet French Toast Casserole is baking in the kitchen. Warm, inviting, and slightly sweet, it brightens chilly days. I like prepping it ahead so breakfast feels easy and relaxed. It quickly becomes a new tradition that everyone asks to repeat.
Get the Recipe: Sweet French Toast Casserole
Cozy Chicken and Stuffing Casserole

Filling your plate with this Cozy Chicken and Stuffing Casserole practically guarantees happiness. Familiar flavors and tender textures invite you to linger longer around the table. I use this dish whenever the cold creeps in, knowing guests will praise its comforting vibe. The aroma alone brings a smile to faces around the dinner spread.
Get the Recipe: Cozy Chicken and Stuffing Casserole
Southern Pineapple Casserole

Unexpected sweetness and gentle warmth shape this Southern Pineapple Casserole into a wintertime surprise. It stands out as a conversation starter at festive gatherings. I bring it when I want to shake things up a bit. Dessert lovers especially enjoy the twist it gives to classic casserole thinking.
Get the Recipe: Southern Pineapple Casserole
Easy Cheesy Tater Tot Casserole

Social events have a way of becoming more relaxed when you serve this Easy Cheesy Tater Tot Casserole. Crispy, gooey, and packed with fun, it draws a crowd in no time. I always notice smiles as people scoop out their first serving. Its simplicity is matched only by how fast plates empty.
Get the Recipe: Easy Cheesy Tater Tot Casserole
Comforting Chicken and Dumpling Casserole

Deep winter calls for the soothing flavors found in this Comforting Chicken and Dumpling Casserole. Soft dumplings on top add coziness to every bite. I choose it when I need dinner to chase away the chill outside. Whoever takes the last serving always asks when you’ll make it again.
Get the Recipe: Comforting Chicken and Dumpling Casserole
Hearty Egg and Potato Breakfast Casserole

Starting the day right feels easy thanks to this Hearty Egg and Potato Breakfast Casserole. Wholesome, filling, and perfect for company, it gets requested again and again. I use it to simplify hectic mornings during December. The combination is just what you need for early winter hours.
Get the Recipe: Hearty Egg and Potato Breakfast Casserole
Sweet Cinnamon Roll Casserole

A single pan delivers magic with this Sweet Cinnamon Roll Casserole. The aroma alone signals holiday mornings are underway. I notice most people hover near the oven, waiting for the moment it’s ready. You’ll want to save some for yourself because leftovers don’t last.
Get the Recipe: Sweet Cinnamon Roll Casserole
Cheesy Crack Chicken Casserole

Party guests perk up when you bring out this Cheesy Crack Chicken Casserole. Creamy, rich, and packed with flavor, every bite feels like a winter treat. I have learned to make extra before potlucks because the pan disappears fast. Its popularity makes it a reliable comfort dish for busy December days.
Get the Recipe: Cheesy Crack Chicken Casserole
Loaded Cheeseburger Casserole

Kick off a casual gathering with this Loaded Cheeseburger Casserole packed with familiar flavors. Layers hint at your favorite diner meal but with much less effort. I enjoy seeing guests guess what’s inside after the first taste. It works brilliantly for weeknight dinners all season long.
Get the Recipe: Loaded Cheeseburger Casserole
The Best Corn Casserole

Bringing together sweet and savory notes,
Comforting Turkey Casserole

Looking for a way to use up extra turkey? Reach for this Comforting Turkey Casserole, which feels just right as December rolls along. Warmth and simplicity define every serving. I especially appreciate how filling it is after busy winter days.
Get the Recipe: Comforting Turkey Casserole
Cheesy Brussels Sprouts Casserole

Brussels sprouts transform with gooey charm in this
Hearty Hamburger Casserole

A bubbling dish of this Hearty Hamburger Casserole feels just right when days are short and nights turn cold. Filling and flavorful, it always garners plenty of compliments. I appreciate how easy it is to pull together, especially for December crowds. Leftovers are as good as the original meal, making lunch easy the next day.
Get the Recipe: Hearty Hamburger Casserole
Cheesy Taco Casserole

If everyone is craving something bold during the holidays, this Cheesy Taco Casserole answers with layers of flavor. The excitement builds as soon as it comes out of the oven. I rely on it during those weeks when you just want dinner solved quickly. Add a festive twist to your December menu with this crowd-pleaser.
Get the Recipe: Cheesy Taco Casserole
Creamy Chicken and Rice Casserole

The aroma of this Creamy Chicken and Rice Casserole signals that genuine comfort is just minutes away. Each bite feels rich while still being accessible on busy nights. I turn to it for easy meal cleanup in the winter months. Friends and guests often want to know the secret to its creamy texture.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Chicken and Rice Casserole
Loaded Million Dollar Casserole

Special occasions deserve a loaded dish, and this
Cheesy Eggplant Casserole

Eggplant finds new fans with this Cheesy Eggplant Casserole because each serving is bubbling and hearty. I make it for winter dinners when I want something unexpected yet cozy. It often sparks requests for seconds at the table. The blend of flavors works well for both skeptics and fans alike.
Get the Recipe: Cheesy Eggplant Casserole
Classic Tuna Noodle Casserole

A sense of nostalgia fills the air whenever this Classic Tuna Noodle Casserole is served. Creamy noodles and familiar flavors keep guests around longer after dinner ends. I find it simple to whip up for December get-togethers. It never fails to bring back memories of winter meals from years past.
Get the Recipe: Classic Tuna Noodle Casserole
Loaded Tater Tot Breakfast Casserole

Morning gatherings get more fun with a tray of this Loaded Tater Tot Breakfast Casserole. The crispiness is matched by its colorful, hearty layers. I set one out for brunches in December, and it’s usually gone before the coffee cools. Don’t be surprised if people ask for the recipe right away.
Get the Recipe: Loaded Tater Tot Breakfast Casserole
Creamy Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole

Each scoop of this Creamy Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole brings classic comfort with a winter-ready twist. Layers build up so much richness, you’ll wonder why you waited to try it. I save it for colder evenings when only something satisfying will do. The leftovers always taste as good as the first serving.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole
Hearty Wild Rice Casserole

Filling, flavorful, and perfect for colder months, this Hearty Wild Rice Casserole stands out at big gatherings. Even those unsure about wild rice end up asking for more. I love sharing it at potlucks since it gets compliments each time. Not a single spoonful ever seems to go to waste.
Get the Recipe: Hearty Wild Rice Casserole
Mashed Potato Casserole

Transform ordinary spuds into something special with this Mashed Potato Casserole. Creamy and golden on top, it fits into any winter feast without fuss. I make it for holidays when comfort is a must. People often sneak extra servings, loving the texture and warmth.
Get the Recipe: Mashed Potato Casserole
Rich Eggs Benedict Casserole

Brunch feels like an event with this Eggs Benedict Casserole on the menu. The blend of creamy and savory notes makes morning gatherings extra memorable. I prep it early so everyone can enjoy the meal together. Each forkful turns a cold winter morning into something worth celebrating.
Get the Recipe: Rich Eggs Benedict Casserole
Cheesy Cauliflower Casserole

Cauliflower takes on a new role in this Cheesy Cauliflower Casserole that even veggie skeptics enjoy. Gooey, savory layers melt together for a side dish people remember. I use it for crowded tables at holiday dinners in December. It gets eaten up right alongside heavier favorites.
Get the Recipe: Cheesy Cauliflower Casserole
Twice Baked Potato Casserole

Potatoes reach a level of comfort in this Twice Baked Potato Casserole that you don’t want to miss. Every layer gives off inviting warmth, perfect for dark winter nights. I notice people dig in with extra enthusiasm at festive meals. It’s a reliable addition when you need a crowd-pleasing side.
Get the Recipe: Twice Baked Potato Casserole
Cheesy Asparagus Casserole

Even those who dodge green veggies sit up for this Cheesy Asparagus Casserole. A bubbling topping makes a simple ingredient suddenly special. I bring it to winter potlucks where variety matters. The flavor combination is far more exciting than you might think.
Get the Recipe: Cheesy Asparagus Casserole
Comforting Ham and Potato Casserole

A full pan of this Comforting Ham and Potato Casserole is exactly what December evenings call for. Rich bites and smoky undertones add layers of depth to the meal. I prepare it for holiday leftovers or when a hearty dinner is needed fast. Most plates come back scraped clean.
Get the Recipe: Comforting Ham and Potato Casserole
Loaded Mexican Casserole

Gatherings get a lively boost from this Loaded Mexican Casserole, which serves up flavor with every bite. The colorful layers catch the eye while the spices chase away any winter blues. I lean on it for larger groups since it stretches so far. You’ll see happy faces passing plates for seconds.
Get the Recipe: Loaded Mexican Casserole
Cheesy Ravioli Casserole

Ravioli lovers know a good thing when they taste this Cheesy Ravioli Casserole. Each bite melts in your mouth and brings on smiles all around. I prepare it for festive dinners when comfort needs a quick solution. The results make the chill outside easy to ignore.
Get the Recipe: Cheesy Ravioli Casserole
Fluffy Egg Casserole

A light and bright breakfast waits inside this Fluffy Egg Casserole. It’s easy to serve up for a hungry crowd without being too heavy. I rely on it for brunches during the busy holiday stretch. One pan takes care of everyone with little effort.
Get the Recipe: Fluffy Egg Casserole
Cheesy Zucchini Casserole

Even those hesitant to eat zucchini end up loving this Cheesy Zucchini Casserole. The golden crust draws attention and turns a simple vegetable into something memorable. I set it on the table for winter meals, knowing it will go quickly. Layers of flavor prove veggies can easily win at dinnertime.
Get the Recipe: Cheesy Zucchini Casserole
Creamy Green Bean Casserole

Classic flavors come alive in this Creamy Green Bean Casserole. Savory notes blend with a rich sauce to make an old favorite feel fresh again. I lean on it for holiday spreads since it pairs well with nearly everything. The dish often empties before other sides do.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Green Bean Casserole
Cheesy Pizza Casserole

Turning pizza night into a winter tradition gets easy with this Cheesy Pizza Casserole. Bubbly, rich, and fun to scoop, it keeps people talking at casual gatherings. I use it for group dinners when fast cleanup is key. Everyone asks for seconds and smiles just keep coming.
Get the Recipe: Cheesy Pizza Casserole
Fluffy Pancake Casserole

Breakfast becomes something special when you offer this Fluffy Pancake Casserole to a hungry crowd. Layers rise golden, creating a memorable meal for chilly mornings. I find it especially helpful for festive brunches in December. Even picky eaters are usually won over by its comforting texture.
Get the Recipe: Fluffy Pancake Casserole
Walking Taco Casserole

Weeknight dinners pick up excitement with this Walking Taco Casserole. Crunchy toppings and savory layers mean every bite offers something unexpected. I love how it adds variety to the busy season’s menu. You’ll find it disappears quickly whenever people gather around.
Get the Recipe: Walking Taco Casserole
About the Author

Hey there! I’m Mandy
Mandy Applegate is a home cook, food blogger, and writer who believes the best meals are the ones shared with the people you love.
She’s all about easy recipes that taste amazing, the kind that make ordinary days feel a little more special and remind you why cooking at home matters.
She has been published on NBC, the Daily News, the Boston Herald, and the Chicago Sun-Times, amongst many others.
