Dump and Bake Dinner Casseroles – Easy, Hearty & Delicious
If you’re searching for the ultimate weeknight comfort food, look no further than dump and bake dinner casseroles. These one-pan wonders are perfect for busy families, requiring minimal prep and zero babysitting. Just mix your ingredients, pour them into a baking dish, and let the oven do the magic.
Dump-and-bake meals are not only time-saving but also versatile—you can make them with pasta, rice, chicken, beef, or vegetables. They’re hearty, budget-friendly, and guaranteed to satisfy even picky eaters. Let’s dive into this easy recipe that brings together creamy textures, savory flavors, and wholesome ingredients.
Ingredients (Serves 6)
- 2 cups uncooked pasta (penne or rotini)
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded (or rotisserie chicken)
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
- 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 ½ cups chicken broth
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 cup broccoli florets (optional for extra veggies)
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt & pepper to taste
- ½ cup breadcrumbs (optional, for topping)
Step by Step Cooking Guide
- Preheat Oven – Set oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch casserole dish.
- Combine Ingredients – In the baking dish, dump in uncooked pasta, chicken, cream of mushroom soup, diced tomatoes, chicken broth, onion, broccoli, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together.
- Add Cheese – Mix in half of the cheddar and mozzarella. Spread mixture evenly.
- Bake Covered – Cover with foil and bake for 35–40 minutes, until pasta is tender.
- Add Topping – Remove foil, sprinkle with remaining cheese and breadcrumbs (if using). Bake uncovered for another 10 minutes until golden and bubbly.
- Cool & Serve – Let rest for 5 minutes before serving hot.
Cooking Time & Serving Size
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 45–50 minutes
- Total Time: 55–60 minutes
- Serving Size: 6 portions
Tips & Variations
- Protein Swap: Use ground beef, turkey, or sausage instead of chicken.
- Cheese Options: Try pepper jack for spice, or gouda for smoky richness.
- Veggie Boost: Add zucchini, spinach, or bell peppers for nutrition.
- Make Ahead: Assemble casserole a day before, refrigerate, then bake fresh.
- Crispy Top: Mix breadcrumbs with melted butter for a crunchy golden crust.
Nutrition Info (Per Serving – Approximate)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 420 kcal |
| Protein | 27 g |
| Carbohydrates | 38 g |
| Fat | 16 g |
| Fiber | 3 g |
| Sugar | 5 g |
Healthy Alternatives
- Low-Fat: Use low-fat cheese and cream of mushroom soup.
- Low-Carb/Keto: Replace pasta with zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice.
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta and breadcrumbs.
- Dairy-Free: Substitute with plant-based cheese and dairy-free cream soup.
- High-Protein: Add beans or lentils for an extra protein punch.
Serving Suggestions
This dump and bake dinner casserole is best enjoyed fresh from the oven with a crisp green salad or garlic bread on the side. It makes a hearty family dinner, a great potluck dish, or a comforting meal-prep option for busy weeks.
The beauty of this recipe lies in its flexibility—you can customize it with your favorite proteins, vegetables, and flavors. Once you try it, you’ll see why dump-and-bake casseroles are a lifesaver for weeknight cooking.
FAQ’s
Q1: Can I make dump and bake casseroles ahead of time?
Yes! Assemble everything, cover tightly, and refrigerate up to 24 hours before baking.
Q2: Do I need to cook the pasta first?
No, that’s the beauty—just add uncooked pasta, and it will cook perfectly in the oven.
Q3: Can I freeze this casserole?
Yes, bake it first, cool completely, then wrap well and freeze up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Q4: How do I make it spicier?
Add red chili flakes, jalapeños, or swap in spicy cheese like pepper jack.
Q5: Can I use rice instead of pasta?
Yes, but use parboiled rice and adjust liquid (add an extra ½ cup broth).
