When it comes to deciding on the protein for a Christmas casserole, the options can be overwhelming. Should you go for a classic chicken or turkey, or perhaps something a bit more adventurous like pork or duck?
The good news is that narrowing down the choices isn’t as tricky as choosing the perfect dish to bring to your holiday gathering.
With over 28 mouthwatering recipes at your fingertips, you’ll be spoiled for choice and guaranteed to find the perfect addition to your Christmas table.
Apple-Cranberry And Rosemary Stuffing Casserole
This mouthwatering stuffing casserole is a harmonious blend of flavors, featuring bread cubes, sautéed celery and onion, tender red apples, tart cranberries, and an assortment of aromatic herbs. Not only can you use it as your go-to chicken or turkey stuffing, but you can also serve warm spoonfuls alongside the main course for a delightful side dish that’s sure to please even the pickiest eaters.
Christmas Breakfast Casserole
This indulgent casserole stands out from the rest due to its unique name and exceptional ingredients. The combination of buttery croissants, cooked ham, onion, and bell peppers creates a rich foundation that’s then elevated by a creamy layer featuring milk, half-and-half, hot sauce, eggs, and cheese. To finish, an extra layer of cheese is added before baking in the oven for 45 minutes, yielding a dish that’s sure to satisfy even the most discerning palates.
Eggs Benedict Strata
When it comes to creating a mouth-watering breakfast dish, Canadians have a knack for getting it right. To give the classic Eggs Benedict casserole an extra boost of flavor, start by adding some Canadian bacon to the mix. Begin by layering English muffins at the base of your baking dish, followed by a generous helping of eggs and crispy bacon on top.
Allow the casserole to almost reach the perfect level of doneness before pouring over your homemade Hollandaise sauce for an added richness that will leave you craving more.
Creamy Turkey Casserole
For a more intimate Christmas gathering, such as a dinner for two or three, a large roasted turkey may seem like overkill. Nevertheless, that doesn’t mean you can’t still indulge in the festive flavors of turkey on Christmas Day. A versatile and easy-to-make solution is a casserole dish featuring shredded cooked turkey, a blend of three condensed cream of soups, rice, cheese, chestnuts, mayo, sautéed mushrooms, steamed broccoli, and crunchy croutons.
To prepare this dish, simply combine all the ingredients in a bowl, then transfer them to a baking dish for a stress-free, last-minute Christmas meal that’s sure to please.
Cheesy Potato Casserole
This holiday season, if you’re seeking a straightforward casserole recipe or a meatless option to pair with your roasted turkey, this creamy potato casserole is definitely worth considering. With just a few simple steps, you can combine hashbrowns, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, and cheese in a large bowl, then transfer the mixture to your casserole dish. The finishing touch is a topping of melted butter and crushed cornflakes, which takes only 35-40 minutes to bake.
Chorizo, Pork Belly, And Chickpea Casserole
Christmas wouldn’t be complete without indulging in the rich flavors of pork belly. This decadent cut of meat pairs exquisitely with the spicy kick from chorizo slices, the earthy sweetness of carrots, fennel seeds, and sherry vinegar. The addition of canned chickpeas not only adds a boost of fiber and protein but also enhances the overall nutritional profile of this hearty casserole.
Slow Cooker Pork Casserole
As you start your Christmas morning cooking routine, it’s likely you’ll be spending most of the day in the kitchen. With that in mind, consider adding this hearty slow cooker casserole to your holiday menu. This flavorful dish combines tender pork shoulder steaks with a medley of vegetables – including onions, leeks, and carrots – and a blend of aromatic herbs that gradually release their scents as they cook.
The addition of Dijon mustard, cider vinegar, and honey adds a tangy sweetness and subtle spiciness to the dish, making it a comforting meal that’s sure to warm hearts.
Pumpkin French Toast Casserole
To create a more elaborate casserole recipe like this one, some preparation is required upfront. This involves allowing your bread to sit out for at least a day in advance, as the subsequent steps build upon this initial step. The next day, start by layering the cubed bread pieces at the bottom of the dish and then pouring over them with a pumpkin mixture.
After that, it’s essential to wait another 24 hours while keeping both the casserole and crumb topping refrigerated before finally baking everything in the oven for about an hour. While this process may take some extra effort, the end result is well worth the time invested. On Christmas Day, you’ll be rewarded with a truly special dish that’s sure to impress.
Pecan Pie French Toast Casserole
If French toast isn’t your thing, or if you’re looking for an alternative to pumpkin-based dishes this Christmas, consider saving this versatile recipe that can be adapted to suit your tastes. The base of the dish is simple: cubes of bread soaked in a rich cream made from eggs, heavy cream, milk, butter, brown sugar, and maple syrup. To add some crunch and texture, toss in some chopped pecans before baking.
Serve warm with either a drizzle of melted nut butter or a thick, sweet syrup made by whisking together butter and maple syrup.
Baked Ziti
The humble baked Ziti is often referred to simply as a Bolognese pasta bake, but this beloved casserole deserves so much more. Packed with an abundance of meat and rich tomato sauce, it’s the kind of dish that will leave everyone craving more – and happily sacrificing their dignity for just one more bite.
Slow Cooker Sausage Casserole
For those who prefer a pork-free or sausage-centric option, we’ve got a delightful slow cooker recipe that’s sure to please. By combining the earthy flavors of thyme and rosemary with sweet potatoes, chipolatas, and carrots, all swimming in a rich tomato sauce, this sausage casserole is a true culinary delight. With its effortless preparation and bold flavor profile, it’s no wonder this dish has earned a special place in many a kitchen.
Blueberry Breakfast Casserole
Christmas casserole recipes don’t have to be limited to just lunch and dinner. This blueberry breakfast casserole is a delicious example of how you can easily transition the same recipe to a morning meal. The simplicity of the ingredients – a straightforward mix and fold process – makes it accessible for anyone to prepare. Simply combine the mixture with fresh blueberries and nuts, transfer it to a dish, and bake for 45-50 minutes.
This breakfast casserole is also an attractive option due to its wholesome ingredients like oats, cream of wheat, and brown sugar, leaving room for a sweet Christmas dessert later in the day.
Chicken Zucchini Casserole
Indulge in the ultimate comfort food with this effortless casserole recipe, featuring tender chicken or turkey, roasted vegetables, and a rich, cheesy sauce. The combination of cream of chicken soup, sour cream, and an abundance of cheddar cheese creates a dish so divine that it’s hard to resist its charm even before your guests arrive.
Green Bean Casserole
Impress your loved ones with a deliciously unexpected vegetarian dish by making this green bean casserole. This mouthwatering recipe combines the earthy flavors of mushrooms and green beans with rich butter, olive oil, flour, and milk to create a satisfying meal that’s sure to please both vegetarians and meat-lovers alike. The added crunch from crispy onions takes it to the next level, making this dish perfect for any gathering.
Ham And Swiss Potato Casserole
To construct this delectable ham and Swiss potato casserole, begin by placing a layer of boiled potatoes at the bottom of your baking dish. Next, add a layer of sliced ham, followed by a sprinkle of cheese. A bechamel sauce should then be poured over the top, creating a rich and creamy foundation for the rest of the dish. Finally, a mixture of breadcrumbs and butter should be spread evenly across the surface.
Without covering the casserole, bake it in the oven for 20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together and the top layer to crisp slightly. This recipe is incredibly straightforward, making it an ideal choice for those looking to add some festive flair to their holiday gatherings without exerting too much effort.
Ham And Veggie Casserole
Looking for a lower-calorie alternative to traditional potato dishes? Consider pairing thinly sliced ham with a medley of colorful vegetables like cauliflower and broccoli. This harmonious union will not only delight your taste buds but also provide a nutritious twist on a classic combination.
Chicken And Swiss Stuffing Casserole
For a mouthwatering casserole, chicken breasts take center stage. When combined with a savory mixture of butter, water, cream of chicken soup, and Swiss cheese, the result is a dish that’s not only easy to prepare but also a crowd-pleaser. With a baking time of just one hour, you’ll be able to indulge in this comforting casserole without much fuss.
To take it to the next level, consider serving it with some tangy cranberry sauce or zesty tomato chutney, accompanied by steamed green beans or broccoli for a well-rounded meal.
Turkey, Spinach, And Stuffing Casserole
Streamline your post-Thanksgiving cleanup with this convenient one-pan recipe that repurposes leftover turkey! Simply combine butter and chicken broth in a large saucepan, then stir in stuffing mix, shredded turkey, wilted spinach, and tart cranberries. No need to worry about extra dishes – just bake until the cheese is melted and bubbly, achieving the perfect combination of flavors.
Chicken Florentine Casserole
Indulge in the comforting flavors of this protein-packed casserole, where chicken, Swiss cheese, and creamed spinach meld together in harmony. The addition of condensed cream of mushroom soup, mayonnaise, herbs, and spices adds depth to the dish, while a crunchy breadcrumb topping provides satisfying texture. But what really makes this recipe shine is the inclusion of elbow macaroni, which not only adds carbohydrates but also elevates the overall flavor profile beyond a classic mac ‘n’ cheese.
Butternut Squash Casserole
Savor the flavors of winter with a festive Christmas dish that combines the richness of butternut squash, sweet potatoes, and red peppers. This vibrant casserole also incorporates the nutty flavor of bulgur wheat and the tanginess of chopped tomatoes, all simmered in a savory broth of red wine and vegetable stock. To add depth and warmth, aromatic spices like cumin and paprika bring out the best in this hearty dish.
Serve it with a dollop of creamy Greek yogurt and a sprinkle of cheddar cheese on top for a truly satisfying Christmas treat.
Sweet Potatoes Au Gratin
Potatoes au gratin is a beloved French recipe that poses a challenge for many home cooks. Despite its reputation as a straightforward dish, this classic recipe requires a delicate balance of flavors and textures to achieve perfection. The traditional version involves layering thinly sliced white potatoes with a rich cream-butter-garlic mixture and an abundance of cheese. However, by substituting sweet potatoes, you can add a festive twist that’s sure to impress your guests.
The vibrant orange color of the sweet potatoes lends a cheerful touch to any table setting, making it an ideal choice for holiday gatherings.
Sweet Potato Casserole With Marshmallows
To satisfy your sweet tooth without compromising your vegetarian diet, try this delightful yam casserole that requires just 7 ingredients. The combination of yams and marshmallows creates a match made in heaven. Begin by mashing the yams with brown sugar, salt, cinnamon, egg, and butter to create the base of the dish. Divide the mixture in half and place one portion in a baking dish. Top it with a layer of marshmallows before covering them with the remaining yam mixture.
Pop the casserole into the oven for 30 minutes or until golden brown. Once done, add an extra sprinkle of marshmallows to the top and let them broil for a few minutes to achieve a lightly toasted finish.
Party Potatoes
If you’re looking for a comforting casserole option that’s perfect for seniors who may have dental issues or difficulty with texture, consider making a Party Potato dish. This recipe combines mashed potatoes with the creamy richness of cream cheese and sour cream, resulting in a smooth and indulgent treat. And don’t forget to add a layer of cheese on top – it’s a game-changer! Simply head over to our recipes page for the full instructions.
Loaded Red Potato Casserole
Elevate the humble mashed potato dish by adding rich, velvety sour cream, pungent chives, and the smoky depth of cooked bacon. The combination creates a harmonious balance of flavors that will leave you craving more. Start with a base of creamy mashed red potatoes, then top it off with a generous dollop of sour cream, a sprinkle of chopped chives, and some crispy, savory cooked bacon. This delectable meal is sure to become a new favorite!
Scalloped Potatoes And Ham Casserole
The complexity of this casserole recipe is reminiscent of classic dishes like lasagna or moussaka. The combination of sliced potatoes, salty ham, and rich homemade cream sauce creates a harmonious balance of flavors and textures. Each layer builds upon the last, with the sequence repeating until all ingredients are exhausted – but it’s crucial to conclude with a satisfying layer of creamy goodness.
Cinnamon Roll Casserole
Transform a store-bought convenience into a decadent dessert by repurposing refrigerated cinnamon rolls. Begin by cutting them into a baking dish to create a unique base. In a separate bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, vanilla extract, and a pinch of cinnamon to create a creamy mixture. Pour the mixture over the cinnamon rolls, ensuring they’re well coated. For an added layer of flavor, drizzle maple syrup on top. Next, pop the dish into the oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the topping is set.
Once baked, pour the included icing from the cinnamon roll package over the warm dessert before serving.
Biscuits And Gravy Casserole
Indulge in a hearty 5-ingredient Christmas casserole, adaptable for breakfast, lunch, or dinner. The star of the show is the rich sausage gravy, crafted from the savory drippings of breakfast sausage, melted butter, whisked flour, and creamy milk. Simply cook the sausages, then add them to the casserole along with eggs, milk, sharp cheddar cheese, and flaky biscuits. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper to taste.
Pop the dish in the oven for about 30 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together. Serve warm, paired with a steaming cup of coffee in the morning or a glass of wine in the afternoon and evening.
The Bottom Line
Indulge in the warm, comforting aromas of the holiday season with these 28 delectable casserole recipes.
Each dish is a masterclass in cozy culinary delights, perfect for sharing with loved ones on Christmas Day or any other special occasion. So go ahead, treat your taste buds to a festive feast and savor the joy of the season!
Barbara is an enthusiastic food-exploring person that goes through different culinary experiences. She got inspired by creating a pizza blog post after she tasted one of the best-selling pizzas in Toledo.