Gathering friends and family around the dinner table is one of life’s greatest joys. But let’s be honest, planning the perfect meal can feel overwhelming. Imagine serving delicious food that you prepped in advance, leaving you free to enjoy the company of your loved ones!
Cheesy Chicken and Broccoli Casserole

Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole from The Cozy Cook
Rating: 4.9. Ingredients: Ritz crackers, chicken soup, sour cream, rotisserie chicken, cheddar cheese Total Time: 1 hr.

One Pot Cheesy Chicken Broccoli and Rice Casserole from Jo Cooks
Rating: 4.6. Ingredients: Chicken soup, chicken breasts, cheddar cheese, chicken broth, olive oil Total Time: 30 min.

Chicken, Broccoli, and Cheddar Casserole from Allrecipes
Rating: 4.7. Ingredients: Chicken soup, sour cream, bread crumbs, shredded chicken, cheddar cheese Total Time: 50 min.
This delightful casserole combines tender chicken, vibrant broccoli, and a creamy, cheesy sauce that’s simply irresistible. The flavors meld together in a warm embrace, making each bite a comforting experience. What sets this recipe apart is its delightful crunch from the topping, which adds texture to the creamy goodness underneath.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 2 cups broccoli florets, steamed
- 1 can cream of chicken soup
- 1 cup sour cream
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup crushed crackers (like Ritz)
- 1/4 cup melted butter
Instructions:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken, steamed broccoli, cream of chicken soup, and sour cream. Stir in one cup of cheddar cheese, mixing it all together until it’s well combined.
Transfer the mixture into a greased casserole dish. In a separate bowl, mix the crushed crackers with the melted butter and sprinkle it over the casserole, followed by the remaining cheese. Bake for about 30-35 minutes, until bubbly and golden on top.
This casserole is not only easy to make ahead, but it also keeps well in the fridge for a couple of days, making it perfect for those busy weeknights or family gatherings. Just reheat it in the oven, and you’re good to go!
Mexican Quinoa Casserole

Easy Mexican Chicken Quinoa Casserole from Pinch of Yum
Rating: 4.8. Ingredients: 1 h 25 min Total Time: 1 h 25 min.
If you’re looking for a dish that packs a punch, this Mexican quinoa casserole is just the ticket! It’s a vibrant mix of quinoa, black beans, corn, and spices, all topped with a layer of melted cheese. The flavors burst in your mouth, and the best part is that it’s a healthy option everyone can enjoy.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup quinoa, rinsed
- 2 cups vegetable broth
- 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup corn, frozen or canned
- 1 can diced tomatoes with green chilies
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 2 cups shredded Monterey Jack cheese
Instructions:
Begin by cooking the quinoa in vegetable broth according to package instructions. Once it’s fluffy, mix it in a large bowl with black beans, corn, diced tomatoes, cumin, and chili powder. Stir until everything is well blended.
Transfer the mixture to a greased casserole dish and top it with the shredded cheese. Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbling.
This casserole is a hit because it’s not only delicious but also vegetarian-friendly! Plus, you can easily make it a day ahead and pop it in the oven when your guests arrive. It’s a colorful dish that looks as good as it tastes!
Classic Beef and Noodle Casserole

This Make-Ahead Pancetta and Gruyère Breakfast Casserole Is a Fancy Take on Classic Ham and Cheese from The Kitchn
Rating: 5. Ingredients: 5, 0(2)

Easy Make-Ahead Breakfast Casserole from Sally's Baking Addiction
Rating: 4.8. Ingredients: 1 h 30 min Total Time: 1 h 30 min.

Big Family Make-Ahead Cheesy Potatoes Freezer Meals | Make Ahead Sides for Large Families from Large Family Table
Ingredients: 1 h 5 min Total Time: 1 h 5 min.
This hearty beef and noodle casserole is a family favorite that never goes out of style. With layers of tender ground beef, egg noodles, and a rich sauce topped with melted cheese, it’s the ultimate comfort food. The savory aroma wafting through your kitchen will have everyone eagerly waiting for dinner!
Ingredients:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 8 ounces egg noodles, cooked
- 1 can cream of mushroom soup
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 onion, chopped
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a skillet, brown the ground beef with the chopped onion until fully cooked. Drain any excess fat and stir in the cream of mushroom soup and beef broth. Add the cooked egg noodles, garlic powder, salt, and pepper to the mixture, ensuring everything is well combined.
Pour the mixture into a greased casserole dish and top with the shredded mozzarella cheese. Bake for 25-30 minutes, until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
This casserole is perfect for make-ahead meals because it freezes beautifully! Just prepare it, cover it tightly, and freeze until you need it. When it’s time to eat, pop it in the oven straight from the freezer, and you’ll have a delicious meal ready in no time!