20 Old-Fashioned Casserole Recipes That Still Show Up at Every Potluck
Casseroles are the ultimate comfort food—warm, hearty, and designed to feed a crowd with love (and leftovers). And while some dishes come and go, these classic casseroles never seem to leave the potluck rotation. Why? Because they still work. They’re filling, nostalgic, and flat-out delicious.
1. Green Bean Casserole
In the realm of potluck staples, the green bean casserole reigns supreme. This beloved dish, introduced by Campbell’s in the 1950s, combines tender green beans with creamy mushroom soup and crispy fried onions. A true American classic, its appeal lies in its simplicity and savory flavor.
Despite its humble ingredients, the casserole’s rich, creamy texture and crispy topping create a delightful contrast that’s hard to resist. Whether served at Thanksgiving or a church supper, it remains a comforting reminder of tradition.
Simple yet satisfying, it’s a dish that embodies the essence of home-cooked warmth.
2. Tuna Noodle Casserole
Tuna noodle casserole—a dish that evokes nostalgia with every bite. Often gracing the table during family gatherings, this casserole combines egg noodles, canned tuna, peas, and a crunchy topping.
Its creamy base, usually made with cream of mushroom soup or mayonnaise, offers comfort with a touch of nostalgia.
Though its recipe has evolved over the decades, this casserole remains a testament to mid-century culinary innovation. Whether served from a Pyrex dish or a vintage casserole pan, its allure is timeless.
3. Tater Tot Casserole
Tater tot casserole, known by some as “hotdish,” is a Midwest favorite. With layers of ground beef, cream of mushroom soup, and frozen corn, it’s topped with crispy tater tots for a satisfying crunch.
This dish is a crowd-pleaser, loved by kids and adults alike for its hearty, comforting nature.
Simple to prepare, it brings a taste of home and nostalgia to any gathering. Its popularity endures, making it a staple at family dinners and potlucks alike.
4. Chicken and Rice Casserole
When it comes to comfort food, chicken and rice casserole is a top contender. This dish combines tender chicken with long-grain rice and a creamy sauce, often made with cream of mushroom or chicken soup.
Its simplicity and heartiness make it a favorite among busy families, providing warmth and satisfaction.
Perfect for chilly evenings, this casserole is a testament to the enduring appeal of simple, home-cooked meals. Whether sprinkled with fresh herbs or enjoyed as-is, it embodies the essence of comforting cuisine.
5. Baked Ziti
Baked ziti, often considered lasagna’s easier cousin, is a beloved Italian-American dish. Featuring a hearty blend of pasta, ricotta, marinara sauce, and mozzarella, it’s baked to perfection with a crispy, cheesy top.
This casserole is a staple at family dinners and potlucks, offering the richness of Italian flavors in a simplified form.
Its cheesy, saucy goodness makes it hard to resist, while its simplicity ensures it remains a household favorite. Paired with garlic bread, it’s a dish that brings joy to any table.
6. Broccoli Cheese Casserole
Broccoli cheese casserole is a comforting blend of steamed broccoli, creamy cheese sauce, and a golden Ritz cracker topping.
This dish, often made with Velveeta for extra creaminess, is a favorite at holiday gatherings and potlucks alike. Its vibrant green and golden hues make it visually appealing, while its rich flavors offer pure comfort.
With each bite, this casserole delivers a delightful combination of textures and tastes, ensuring its place in the hearts of casserole lovers everywhere. It’s an enduring classic that celebrates the simple joy of cheesy goodness.
7. Scalloped Potatoes and Ham
Scalloped potatoes and ham—a delightful combination of thin-sliced potatoes, cheese, and ham—offers a taste of nostalgia in every bite. This classic casserole is a favorite for post-holiday meals, utilizing leftover ham to create a comforting dish.
Its creamy layers and savory flavors make it irresistible, while its simplicity ensures it remains a household staple.
Perfect for chilly evenings, it’s a dish that brings warmth and satisfaction to the table.
8. Cornbread Casserole
Cornbread casserole is a delightful blend of sweet and savory flavors. With a creamy mix of corn, sour cream, and cornbread mix, this dish is both easy to prepare and satisfying.
Its buttery, golden crust and tender interior make it a favorite at gatherings, offering a taste of Southern comfort.
Whether served as a side or main dish, cornbread casserole is a versatile addition to any potluck, bringing a touch of homestyle warmth to the table.
9. Enchilada Casserole
Enchilada casserole brings the vibrant flavors of Tex-Mex cuisine to your table. This dish features stacked tortillas layered with meat, beans, cheese, and red sauce, creating a spicy, satisfying meal.
Its rich, bold flavors and hearty ingredients make it a favorite at potlucks and family dinners.
With a garnish of fresh cilantro, it offers a zesty touch that complements its robust taste. This casserole is a celebration of the diverse flavors of Mexican cuisine, ensuring its place as a culinary classic.
10. Shepherd’s Pie
Shepherd’s pie, with its comforting layers of ground beef, vegetables, and gravy, topped with creamy mashed potatoes, is a timeless favorite. This hearty dish, originating from the UK, provides warmth and satisfaction with every spoonful.
Its golden-brown potato topping adds a visually appealing touch, while its savory flavors offer a taste of home-cooked goodness.
Perfect for cozy dinners and gatherings, shepherd’s pie remains a beloved staple that brings culinary comfort to any table.
11. Macaroni and Cheese Casserole
Macaroni and cheese casserole elevates the classic stovetop version to a new level. With extra cheddar and a crispy breadcrumb topping, this baked dish offers a richer, more indulgent experience.
Its gooey, cheesy interior and golden crust make it a favorite at potlucks and family dinners.
This casserole is a testament to the enduring appeal of cheese and pasta, providing comfort and satisfaction with every bite. Its timeless charm continues to win hearts across generations.
12. Cabbage Roll Casserole
Cabbage roll casserole offers all the flavors of traditional stuffed cabbage without the fuss. With layers of cabbage, ground beef, tomato sauce, and rice, this dish is both hearty and comforting.
Its savory flavors and tender texture make it a popular choice for family meals and gatherings.
Simplifying the classic recipe, this casserole provides the same satisfying taste, ensuring its place as a beloved household favorite. Its origins in Eastern European cuisine add a touch of cultural richness to the table.
13. Sweet Potato Casserole
Sweet potato casserole, with its rich, sweet flavors and iconic toppings, is a holiday favorite. Combining sweet potatoes, brown sugar, and butter, it’s topped with marshmallows or pecans for a delightful contrast.
This dish, often served at Thanksgiving, brings warmth and nostalgia to the table. Its blend of textures and flavors creates a harmonious balance that’s hard to resist.
As a side or dessert, sweet potato casserole remains a beloved tradition that captures the essence of holiday celebrations.
14. Chicken Spaghetti Casserole
Chicken spaghetti casserole combines shredded chicken, spaghetti, peppers, and loads of cheese into a creamy, comforting dish. Whether made with Velveeta or another cheese, it offers a rich, satisfying flavor.
This dish is a favorite for busy families, providing a hearty meal with minimal effort.
Its creamy texture and savory taste make it a delightful addition to any potluck or dinner table. Chicken spaghetti casserole continues to be a cherished classic, offering a taste of warmth and comfort.
15. Tamale Pie
Tamale pie, with its layers of cornbread crust, seasoned ground beef, corn, beans, and enchilada sauce, offers a taste of Tex-Mex comfort. This casserole is both flavorful and filling, providing a satisfying meal.
Its bold, spicy flavors and hearty ingredients make it a hit at potlucks and family gatherings.
With a blend of textures and tastes, tamale pie is a versatile dish that celebrates the rich culinary traditions of Mexican cuisine. Its enduring popularity ensures it remains a favorite among casserole enthusiasts.
16. Baked Beans and Weenies Casserole
Baked beans and weenies casserole brings a touch of nostalgia and fun to the table. With baked beans, sliced hot dogs, and a hint of brown sugar, this dish is a childhood favorite.
Its sweet and savory flavors create a delightful contrast, while its simplicity makes it easy to prepare.
Perfect for casual gatherings and family meals, this casserole offers a taste of nostalgia with every bite. Its playful nature and comforting taste ensure it remains a beloved classic.
17. Breakfast Casserole
Breakfast casserole combines hash browns, eggs, sausage, and cheese into a morning-friendly tray of warmth and satisfaction. This dish is perfect for brunches and family gatherings, offering a hearty start to the day.
Its savory flavors and comforting texture make it a popular choice for breakfast lovers.
Easy to prepare and serve, breakfast casserole brings a sense of homestyle comfort to any morning. Its versatile nature ensures it remains a cherished classic, enjoyed by all ages.
18. Shrimp and Grits Casserole
Shrimp and grits casserole brings a taste of the South to your table. With cheesy grits, shrimp, and a touch of Cajun spice, this dish is both flavorful and comforting.
Its rich, savory taste and creamy texture make it a popular choice for brunches and dinners alike.
As a celebration of Southern cuisine, shrimp and grits casserole offers a delightful blend of flavors that warms the heart and soul. Its charm and character ensure it remains a beloved classic.
19. Chili Mac Casserole
Chili mac casserole blends the best of pasta and chili into a comforting, hearty dish. With pasta, chili, and cheese, it offers a satisfying meal that’s perfect for gatherings and weeknight dinners.
Its rich, savory flavors and bubbly, cheesy top make it a crowd-pleaser.
This casserole’s combination of textures and tastes ensures it remains a favorite among those who appreciate comfort food. Its enduring appeal and versatility keep it in the rotation of beloved potluck dishes.
20. Chicken Pot Pie Casserole
Chicken pot pie casserole transforms the classic pot pie into a comforting dish. With creamy chicken and vegetables under a biscuit crust, it offers a taste of home-cooked goodness.
This dish is a favorite for family dinners, providing warmth and satisfaction with every bite.
Its flaky crust and rich, savory filling create a harmonious blend of textures and flavors. Chicken pot pie casserole remains a cherished classic, capturing the essence of comfort and tradition.