Finding satisfying, budget-friendly dinners that please the whole family can feel like an endless puzzle. Between after-school activities, work deadlines, and those nights when you’re just too tired to think about cooking, getting a proper meal on the table often seems impossible.
That’s why these noodle casserole recipes have become my go-to solution: they’re filling, easy to put together, and perfect for making ahead. Whether you’re craving classic tuna noodle or looking to try something new, these dishes are guaranteed to make weeknight dinners a whole lot easier.
Best Baked Eyeball Casserole
- 1 jar spaghetti sauce (24 oz), portioned
- 1 container ricotta cheese (15 oz, part skim)
- 3/4 cup parmesan cheese, split
- 1 box dry short-cut pasta (16 oz, cooked and drained)
- 1 container small mozzarella balls (8 oz, fresh)
- 2 tablespoons sliced black olives (or 2 oz from a can)
Total Time: 33-45 minutes
Looking for a fun Halloween dinner that’ll make everyone laugh? This playful pasta casserole looks spooky but tastes just like your favorite Italian comfort food. The fresh mozzarella balls become creepy “eyeballs” when topped with black olive slices, while the rich ricotta and marinara create the perfect base.
While it might look complicated, this recipe comes together quickly with store-bought ingredients. As one mom told me, “My kids couldn’t stop giggling at the eyeballs, but they cleaned their plates!” You can even prep it a day ahead – just cover and refrigerate, then bake when you’re ready.
Serve it with garlic bread and a simple green salad for a complete meal that’s sure to be the talk of your Halloween party. Just don’t be surprised if your guests ask to take pictures before digging in!
Best Beef Noodle Casserole Recipe
- 12 ounces wide egg noodles
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 medium chopped onion
- 1 can diced tomatoes (14 oz, including liquid)
- 1 can tomato sauce (15 oz)
- 1/2 cup beef stock
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon garlic salt
- 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1/2 cup grated parmesan
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella
Total Time: 50-60 minutes
This classic American casserole brings together everything we love about comfort food – tender egg noodles, savory ground beef, and two kinds of melted cheese. The combination of diced tomatoes and tomato sauce creates a rich base, while dried herbs add that familiar Italian-American flavor we all grew up with.
You can put this together in about an hour, making it perfect for busy weeknights when you need something filling and satisfying. As my kids always say, “It’s like spaghetti and meatballs got married with mac and cheese!”
Serve it straight from the oven while the cheese is still bubbly, with a simple green salad on the side. And here’s a tip – it actually tastes even better the next day, so don’t worry about leftovers. They’ll disappear fast!
Best Cream of Mushroom Casserole
- 1 batch homemade cream of mushroom soup
- 12 ounces small pasta shapes (such as penne, shells, or farfalle)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup thawed frozen peas
- 1 cup grated mozzarella cheese
Total Time: 35-45 minutes
If you’re a fan of creamy pasta dishes, this mushroom casserole needs to be on your dinner rotation. The homemade cream of mushroom soup takes this comfort food favorite from good to great, and it’s the kind of meal that makes everyone at the table happy. Pro tip: For extra mushroom flavor, toss in some fresh sautéed mushrooms along with the peas before baking.
Best Old-Fashioned Casserole
- 1 pound lean minced beef
- 1 cup chopped onion
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon italian herbs
- 2 cups beef stock
- 8 ounces egg noodles
- 1 (25 oz) jar pasta sauce, split
- 1/2 cup cottage cheese
- 1/4 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Total Time: 40-55 minutes
This recipe brings together all the comfort of a classic pasta bake with the ease of a one-dish meal. The combination of egg noodles, seasoned beef, and four different cheeses creates something that’s sure to please both kids and adults. You can prep it earlier in the day and pop it in the oven when you’re ready – perfect for those busy weeknights when cooking feels like too much work. Pro tip: Try adding some mushrooms or bell peppers to the beef mixture for extra flavor and nutrition.
Best Old-Fashioned Tuna Casserole
- 16 ounces egg noodles
- 10 ounces tuna packed in water, well drained (two cans)
- 7 ounces sliced mushrooms (one can, well drained)
- 21 ounces cream of mushroom soup
- 1 cup frozen peas
- 2 cups cheese, shredded
- 12 ounces evaporated milk
- 3/4 cup dry bread crumbs
- 2 tablespoons butter, divided
- 2 tablespoons parmesan cheese, shredded
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon pepper
Total Time: 48-54 minutes
Comforting, budget-smart, and loaded with pantry staples we all know and love (hello, cream of mushroom soup!), this tuna casserole is the definition of home cooking at its best.
Made with canned tuna (a lifesaver on busy weeknights), tender egg noodles, two kinds of cheese, and a crispy breadcrumb topping that gets perfectly golden brown, I’m sure this classic dish will become your family’s new favorite comfort food fix.
Best Vegetable Lasagna with No Boil Noodles
- 3 asian eggplants
- A few carrots
- 2 red bell peppers
- 1 small cauliflower head
- 1 yellow summer squash
- 1 bunch of kale
- 1 small buttercup squash
- 2 zucchinis, thinly sliced
- No-boil pasta sheets for 3 layers
- 1 pound ricotta cheese, well-drained
- 2 eggs
- Approximately 1 pound fresh mozzarella
- About 1 pound shredded mozzarella
- High-quality or homemade marinara sauce
- Grated pecorino romano or parmesan cheese
- Freshly chopped parsley
- Pine nuts
- Olive oil
- Salt
- Pepper
Total Time: 50-70 minutes
If you’re looking for a meatless lasagna that’ll make everyone happy, this is the recipe to try. You’ll create amazing flavor layers with roasted vegetables like eggplant, peppers, and squash, plus three different kinds of cheese – ricotta, fresh mozzarella, and shredded mozzarella.
The best part? No need to boil the noodles! Just layer them with your roasted veggies, homemade marinara, and that creamy cheese mixture. The vegetables can be prepped ahead, making assembly much easier when you’re ready to put it all together.
Serve it with a simple green salad and some crusty garlic bread. The leftovers taste even better the next day, making this perfect for busy families or weekend meal prep. Trust me, even the meat-lovers at your table won’t miss the meat!
Classic Tuna Noodle Casserole with Potato Chips
- 1 package egg noodles (12 ounces)
- 1 can condensed cream of mushroom soup (10.75 ounces)
- 1/2 cup evaporated milk
- 1 can tuna, drained (5 ounces)
- 3 cups shredded american cheese
- 1/3 cup diced onion
- 1/2 cup crumbled potato chips
- A pinch of paprika
Total Time: 25-35 minutes
If you’re a fan of comfort food, then this tuna noodle casserole needs to be in your dinner rotation. You can prep all the ingredients while the noodles cook, making it perfect for busy weeknights when you want something warm and filling. Pro tip: For extra crunch, mix some crushed potato chips with a bit of melted butter before sprinkling them on top.
Creamy Noodle Casserole with Cream of Chicken Soup
- 2 cans chunk chicken breast (12.5 ounces each, drained) or about 3 cups diced rotisserie chicken
- 2 cans cream of chicken soup (10.5 ounces each)
- 1 cup mayo
- 1 cup milk
- 1/2 onion, finely chopped (optional, or 1 tablespoon dried onion flakes can be used)
- 2 cups cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1 1/2 cups mixed frozen peas and carrots
- 12-ounce pack of egg noodles, cooked and drained
- 1 cup panko crumbs
- 1/2 cup salted butter, melted (1 stick)
Total Time: 45-55 minutes
This is the kind of casserole that brings back memories of family dinners and potlucks. The combination of tender egg noodles, creamy chicken soup, and melted cheese creates a dish that’s both filling and comforting.
While it’s simple to put together, the magic happens when the panko topping turns golden brown and crispy in the oven. The frozen peas and carrots add a pop of color and nutrition, while the mayo and milk blend with the soup to create a rich, creamy sauce that coats every noodle.
Serve it straight from the oven with a simple green salad and some crusty bread on the side. It’s even better the next day, making it perfect for busy weeknight meals or when you need to feed a crowd without spending hours in the kitchen.
Delicious Spinach Noodle Casserole
- * 2 packs frozen spinach
- * 1 pound bag of egg noodles
- * 2 tablespoons olive oil
- * 1 chopped onion
- * 4 chopped garlic cloves (or use a grater)
- * 4 tablespoons butter
- * 2 heaping tablespoons flour
- * 1 cup whole milk
- * 1 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- * 2 egg yolks
- * handful of cherry tomatoes (halved)
- * 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- * 1 cup grated parmesan cheese
- * 1 to 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- * salt and pepper as needed
Total Time: 45-65 minutes
If you’re looking for a cozy pasta dish that brings together creamy comfort and healthy greens, this spinach noodle casserole is just what you need. You can prep most of it while the noodles cook, and it’s the kind of meal that makes fantastic leftovers for lunch the next day. Pro tip: If you’re short on time, you can assemble this casserole in the morning and pop it in the oven when you get home from work.
Delicious Tuna Tetrazzini Recipe
- 8 ounces spaghetti, uncooked
- 1/3 cup butter
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 8 ounces white mushrooms, sliced
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1/3 cup plain flour
- 1 2/3 cups chicken stock
- 1 1/2 cups milk
- 2 tablespoons dry white wine
- 1 cup mild cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1 cup parmesan cheese, grated
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon dried marjoram
- 3 cans tuna in water, each 6.5 ounces, drained
- Salt and pepper to taste
Total Time: 45-60 minutes
This comforting pasta dish brings together two family favorites – creamy pasta and tuna – in one satisfying casserole.
Made with everyday pantry staples like canned tuna, mushrooms, and two types of cheese, plus a splash of white wine for good measure, this budget-friendly dinner hits all the right notes. The rich sauce, seasoned with herbs and Parmesan, wraps around tender spaghetti for a meal that’ll have everyone asking for seconds.
Easy Baked Chicken Spaghetti Recipe
- 8 ounces spaghetti noodles
- 1 to 2 teaspoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon minced garlic
- 28 ounces diced tomatoes, canned
- 1 1/2 cups chicken stock
- 8 ounces mascarpone cheese
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 1/2 teaspoons dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon dried marjoram
- 3 cups diced or shredded cooked chicken
- 1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper (adjust to taste)
Total Time: 40-55 minutes
This Italian-American comfort food brings together all the best parts of a pasta night. The combination of mascarpone and mozzarella creates a rich, creamy sauce that coats every strand of spaghetti, while the herbs and garlic add classic Italian flavors that’ll make your kitchen smell amazing.
Though it’s not complicated, this dish delivers the kind of satisfaction you’d expect from your favorite Italian restaurant. The cooked chicken makes it filling enough for dinner, and the tomatoes add just the right amount of tang to balance out the cheesy goodness.
When you’re ready to serve, pair it with a simple green salad and some garlic bread. It’s even better the next day, so don’t worry about making too much – those leftovers won’t go to waste!
Easy Casseroles with Ground Beef
- 1 pound lean ground beef
- 1 finely chopped onion
- 1 finely chopped red bell pepper
- 2 minced garlic cloves
- 1 teaspoon oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon ground mustard
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 3 cups marinara sauce
- 1/2 cup water
- 1 pound dried egg noodles or rotini (454 grams)
- 1 cup reserved pasta cooking water
- 4 ounces cubed cream cheese (room temperature)
- 1/4 cup any kind of cream
- 2 cups shredded cheese (such as marble, mozzarella, or cheddar)
Total Time: 45-60 minutes
This family-friendly casserole brings together everything we love about comfort food in one dish. Ground beef, tender pasta, and a creamy, cheesy sauce come together to create a meal that’s both filling and easy on the wallet.
Made with everyday ingredients like ground beef (a weeknight dinner hero!), marinara sauce, cream cheese, and your choice of pasta, plus a generous blanket of melted cheese on top, this casserole is bound to become one of your go-to recipes when you need a reliable dinner win.
Easy Chicken Noodle Soup Casserole
- 12 ounces wide egg noodles
- 1 stick butter
- 1 cup onion, chopped
- 1/2 cup celery, diced
- 3 tablespoons minced garlic
- 1/4 cup flour
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon pepper
- 2 cups mixed vegetables
- 2 cups cooked chicken (rotisserie or canned)
- 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1 cup ritz crackers, crushed
- 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese
- 1/2 stick butter, melted
Total Time: 35-50 minutes
This casserole takes everything you love about chicken noodle soup and turns it into a cozy, filling dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights. The creamy sauce, made with butter, milk, and chicken broth, coats every bite of egg noodles, tender chicken, and vegetables.
While traditional chicken noodle soup can take hours to develop its flavors, this casserole comes together in a fraction of the time. Using rotisserie chicken and frozen mixed vegetables makes it even easier. The crispy Ritz cracker and parmesan topping adds a satisfying crunch that you just can’t get from soup.
Serve it straight from the oven with a simple green salad and warm dinner rolls. It’s the kind of meal that makes everyone at the table feel right at home, and leftovers taste even better the next day.
Easy Chicken Spaghetti Casserole
- 1 whole chicken (about 4 lbs.)
- 4 tablespoons kosher salt
- 1 bay leaf
- 8 ounces uncooked spaghetti
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 1 large chopped yellow onion
- 1/2 chopped green bell pepper
- 2 chopped celery stalks
- 2 minced garlic cloves
- 1 can (10.75 oz) cream of mushroom soup
- 1 can (28 oz) diced tomatoes, drained and chopped
- 1 teaspoon worcestershire sauce
- 4 drops hot sauce
- 1/8 teaspoon fresh ground black pepper
- Vegetable spray for cooking
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (about 4 oz)
Total Time: 110-150 minutes
This comforting chicken spaghetti casserole brings together everyday ingredients for a satisfying family meal. The whole chicken simmers with aromatics to create a flavorful base, while the mix of vegetables and mushroom soup creates a creamy sauce that coats every strand of pasta. Top it with melted cheddar cheese and pop it in the oven for a bubbling, golden-brown finish. It’s the kind of dish that makes great leftovers too – if there are any!
Easy Macaroni Casserole Recipe
- 1 pound 93% lean ground turkey
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 cup diced onion
- 1 medium chopped red bell pepper
- 1/4 cup finely chopped celery
- 1/4 cup finely chopped carrots
- 1 cup sliced mushrooms
- 1 can (14.5 oz) petite diced tomatoes, drained
- 2 cups pasta sauce
- 2 cups water
- 1/2 teaspoon italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- 8 ounces shredded mozzarella cheese
- 8 ounces uncooked whole wheat elbow pasta
Total Time: 40-60 minutes
This family-friendly casserole takes the guesswork out of weeknight cooking. The whole wheat pasta cooks right in the sauce, absorbing all the flavors while saving you from washing an extra pot. Ground turkey keeps things on the lighter side, while a mix of vegetables like carrots, celery, and mushrooms adds nutrition without fuss. The real magic happens when the melted mozzarella creates that irresistible cheesy top layer that kids and adults alike can’t resist.
Easy Pizza Pasta Bake
- 1 pound raw penne
- 3 cups marinara sauce (24 oz.)
- 10 ounces pepperoni slices
- 2 cups grated mozzarella cheese
Total Time: 35-45 minutes
Pizza Pasta Bake combines two family favorites into one satisfying dish. Tender penne pasta is layered with marinara sauce and pepperoni, then topped with melted mozzarella cheese for that classic pizza flavor in casserole form.
It’s perfect for busy weeknights when you want something that everyone will eat, and the leftovers taste even better the next day.
Healthy French Onion Chicken Noodle Casserole
- 2 cups cooked, chopped chicken (rotisserie works well)
- Two 10 oz cans of creamy chicken soup
- 16 oz refrigerated french onion dip (used for chip dipping)
- 1 cup cheddar cheese, grated
- 2 cups mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 12 oz no yolks noodles
- 2 cups crispy fried onions
Total Time: 35-45 minutes
This comforting casserole combines two classic favorites – French onion dip and chicken noodle soup – into one satisfying dish. The creamy base comes from mixing French onion dip with chicken soup, while tender noodles and chunks of rotisserie chicken make it filling. The crispy fried onions on top add a nice crunch, and two types of melted cheese create that perfect comfort food appeal. It’s a family-friendly twist that takes the fuss out of French onion soup.
Hearty Sardine Noodle Casserole
- 500g pasta of choice
- 240g canned sardines
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 400g canned diced tomatoes
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon italian herbs
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 5g stock cube or 1 teaspoon bouillon powder
- Salt, to taste
Total Time: 25-40 minutes
Looking for a budget-friendly dinner that’s both filling and tasty? This sardine noodle casserole brings together pantry staples in the best way. Mix canned sardines with your favorite pasta, add some tomatoes and herbs, and you’ve got a meal that’s both satisfying and simple. The sardines break down as they cook, creating a rich sauce that coats every bite. Feel free to use any pasta shape you have on hand – penne, fusilli, or even spaghetti work great. Toss in some frozen peas or spinach if you want to add extra vegetables to the mix.
Quick Baked Chicken Alfredo Pasta
- 16 oz package of penne pasta
- 1/2 cup butter
- 2 cups heavy cream (or 1 pint)
- 4 oz cream cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon minced garlic
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon italian herbs
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup shredded parmesan cheese
- 2 cups cooked chicken (cut into pieces or shredded)
- 2 cups mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup parmesan
Total Time: 45-60 minutes
If you’re a fan of classic Italian-American comfort food, this baked chicken Alfredo pasta needs to be in your recipe box. You can prep most of the components ahead of time, making it perfect for those busy weeknights when you want something warm and filling without much fuss. Pro tip: For extra flavor, try roasting the chicken with Italian herbs before adding it to the pasta, or stir in some steamed broccoli florets to sneak in some greens.
Quick Egg Noodle Casserole Recipe
- 12 ounces egg noodles
- 6 eggs
- 2 cups milk
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked salt
Total Time: 55-75 minutes
Here’s a simple egg noodle casserole that comes together in no time. Mix beaten eggs with milk and pour over cooked egg noodles for a comforting dish that reminds me of my grandmother’s kitchen. The smoked salt adds a nice touch, but regular salt works just fine if that’s what you have on hand. Pop it in the oven and let it do its thing while you tackle other tasks – it’s the kind of recipe that makes weeknight cooking feel manageable.
Quick Ground Chicken Noodle Casserole
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter (half a stick), plus extra for the dish
- 1 (8-ounce) package of extra-wide egg noodles
- 3/4 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 6 ounces sharp cheddar cheese, grated (around 1 1/2 cups), separate some
- 2 carrots, sliced thin
- 1 bell pepper, diced
- 8 ounces mushrooms, sliced
- 1 cup lima beans, thawed from frozen
- 1/2 chopped yellow onion
- 2 cloves of garlic, chopped
- 2 sprigs of thyme, and more for topping
- Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper to season
- 1 pound ground chicken
- 1/4 cup regular flour
- 1/2 cup white wine, dry
- 1 1/2 cups chicken broth
- 3/4 cup heavy cream
Total Time: 35-50 minutes
Get out your biggest casserole dish for this cozy chicken noodle bake. Mix tender egg noodles with ground chicken and loads of fresh vegetables in a creamy sauce that’s pure comfort. The crispy panko and melted cheddar topping adds the perfect crunch. Feel free to swap in any vegetables you have in your fridge – green beans work great instead of lima beans, and broccoli can replace the mushrooms. Add a side salad, and dinner is done.
Simple Rotisserie Chicken Noodle Casserole
- 3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil, separated
- 1 cup diced onion
- 1 cup diced carrots
- 1/2 cup diced celery
- 2 tablespoons plain flour
- Thyme to taste
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- Garlic powder to taste
- 2 cups full-fat milk
- 3 cups cooked whole wheat egg noodles
- 2 cups shredded rotisserie chicken
- 3/4 cup thawed frozen peas
- 1/2 cup whole wheat panko breadcrumbs
Total Time: 35-45 minutes
Cozy, comforting, and made with everyday ingredients you probably already have in your kitchen, this chicken noodle casserole is the perfect weeknight solution.
Using a store-bought rotisserie chicken (because who has time to cook chicken from scratch?), along with carrots, celery, and peas mixed into creamy milk-based sauce over whole wheat noodles, and topped with crispy panko breadcrumbs, this dish is sure to become your family’s new go-to comfort meal.
Super Easy Chicken Noodle Casserole Recipe
- 2 cans chunk chicken breast, drained (12.5 ounces each, or about 3 cups diced rotisserie chicken)
- 2 cans cream of chicken soup (10.5 ounces each)
- 1 cup mayo
- 1 cup milk
- 1/2 finely diced onion (optional) (or use about 1 tablespoon dried onion flakes)
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 1/2 cups frozen peas and carrots
- 1 package egg noodles, cooked and drained (12 ounces)
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup melted salted butter (1 stick)
Total Time: 45-60 minutes
This homestyle chicken noodle casserole is comforting, creamy, and comes together in a snap. Tender egg noodles and chunks of chicken are mixed with a rich sauce made from cream of chicken soup, mayo, and melted cheese, while peas and carrots add a nice pop of color and texture.
It’s perfect for busy weeknight dinners, and the leftovers taste even better the next day for an easy lunch.
Tasty Zucchini Noodle Vegetable Lasagna
- 3 medium zucchini (around 1 pound total, about 60 slices)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium onion (diced)
- 4 cloves garlic (minced or pressed)
- 6 oz fresh baby spinach (chopped)
- 1 ½ cups whole-milk ricotta cheese (drained)
- 1 large egg
- 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
- 2 teaspoons dried oregano (optional)
- 3 tablespoons fresh basil (chopped, plus extra for garnish)
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 3 cups tomato basil sauce (or preferred store-bought marinara)
- 2 ⅓ cups shredded mozzarella
Total Time: 65-85 minutes
This fresh take on lasagna ditches regular pasta for thin slices of zucchini, making it a lighter version of the classic Italian dish we all know and love.
Layered with a mix of creamy ricotta, garden-fresh spinach, and plenty of melted mozzarella (because who doesn’t love cheese?), this recipe keeps all the comfort of traditional lasagna while sneaking in extra vegetables. The addition of lemon zest and fresh basil brings a bright, homey flavor that’ll make you forget you’re eating something that’s actually good for you.