45 Low-Cal Casserole Recipes (2024)

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45 Low-Cal Casserole Recipes (1)Katie BandurskiUpdated: Feb. 10, 2022

    You don't need to sacrifice comfort food if you're watching what you eat. These cozy casserole recipes have 400 calories (or less!) per serving.

    1/45

    Spaghetti Squash Meatball Casserole

    One of our favorite comfort food dinners is spaghetti and meatballs. We’re crazy about this lightened-up, healthier version featuring so many veggies. The same beloved flavors with more nutritious ingredients! — Courtney Stultz, Weir, Kansas

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    2/45

    Ham and Swiss Casserole

    When I prepare this noodle casserole for church gatherings, it's always a hit. It can easily be doubled or tripled for a crowd. —Doris Barb, El Dorado, Kansas

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    3/45

    Taste of Home

    This quick, easy recipe is truly delicious. The succulent, melt-in-your-mouth seafood flavors and textures make for elegant comfort food. To make ahead, just assemble, cover and refrigerate, then bake when ready. —Jan Bartley, Evergreen, North Carolina

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    4/45

    Zucchini Pizza Casserole

    My husband has a hearty appetite, our two kids never tire of pizza and I grow lots of zucchini, so this tasty tomato casserole is absolutely tops with us throughout the entire year. Once you've tried the recipe, you may even decide to grow more zucchini in your own garden next summer! —Lynn Bernstetter, White Bear Lake, Minnesota

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    5/45

    Taste of Home

    Ole Polenta Casserole

    With plenty of ground beef and cheese, this layered bake goes over big on the dinner table. Adjust the amount of hot pepper sauce to suit your taste.—Angela Biggin, Lyons, Illinois

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    6/45

    Taste of Home

    Inside-Out Stuffed Peppers

    My daughters don’t care for the usual green peppers stuffed with a meat-and-rice mixture, so one of the girls dreamed up this alternative. The peppers are simply chopped and combined with the other ingredients in a casserole. —Darlene Brenden, Salem, Oregon

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    7/45

    Taste of Home

    Dinner in a Bag

    I get a head start on this family-pleasing dinner by assembling ready-to-grab pantry kits. I measure dry macaroni and the spice mixture into separate containers, storing them in a paper bag with canned tomatoes. —Darlene Brenden, Salem, Oregon

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    8/45

    Taste of Home

    Chicken and Swiss Stuffing Bake

    I love to cook but just don't have much time. This casserole is both comforting and fast, which makes it my favorite kind of recipe. I serve it with a green salad. —Jena Coffey, Sunset Hills, Missouri

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    9/45

    Taste of Home

    Broccoli Tuna Casserole

    When I was in the Navy, a co-worker's wife shared this recipe with me. I’ve tweaked it over the years, but it still brings back memories of my "family" away from home. —Yvonne Cook, Haskins, Ohio

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    10/45

    Angel Hair Shrimp Bake

    Shrimp pairs beautifully with the herbs, salsa and three kinds of cheese in this baked angel hair pasta casserole. The shrimp make this dish special enough for a guests, but your family is sure to enjoy it, too. —Susan Davidson, Elm Grove, Wisconsin

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    11/45

    Taste of Home

    Perfect Four-Cheese Lasagna

    Lasagna is one of my favorites, and this is the recipe I’ve been making since I was a teenager. It’s a tantalizing combo of pasta, meat sauce, cheese and more cheese that really lives up to its name! —Lauren Delaney-Wallace, Glen Carbon, Illinois

    12/45

    Unstuffed Peppers

    If you like stuffed peppers, you'll love this speedy version. It offers all the comforting flavor of the original, but takes just half an hour. Instead of cooking the instant rice, you can use 2 cups leftover cooked rice if you have it on hand. —Beth Dewyer, Du Bois, Pennsylvania

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    13/45

    Taste of Home

    Roasted Vegetable Strata

    With the abundance of zucchini my family has in the fall, this is the perfect dish to use some of what we have. Cheesy and rich, the warm, classic breakfast dish is sure to please! —Colleen Doucette, Truro, Nova Scotia

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    14/45

    Pork and Green Chile Casserole

    I work at a local hospital and another job part time, so I'm always on the lookout for good, quick recipes to fix for my family. Some of my co-workers and I exchange recipes. This zippy casserole is one that was brought to a picnic at my house. People raved over it. —Dianne Esposite, New Middletown, Ohio

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    15/45

    Taste of Home

    Tuna Mushroom Casserole

    I love to serve this dressed-up version of a tuna casserole. The green beans add nice texture, color and flavor. The first time I made this dish, my uncle asked for seconds even though tuna casseroles are not usually his favorite.—Jone Furlong, Santa Rosa, California

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    16/45

    Southwest Vegetarian Bake

    This veggie-packed casserole hits the spot on chilly nights. It's a healthy canned vegetable recipe that's perfect any time I have a taste for Mexican food with all the fixings. —Patricia Gale, Monticello, Illinois

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    17/45

    Aberdeen Beef Pie

    When set in the middle of the table, this hearty beef pie is the center of attention. With chunks of tender beef and tasty vegetables under a flaky pastry crust, this pure comfort food will welcome your family home. —Peggy Goodrich, Enid, Oklahoma

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    18/45

    Taste of Home

    On chilly days, I doctor up grits and top them with shrimp for a comfy meal. If you’re not a seafood lover, use chicken, ham or both. —Jerri Gradert, Lincoln, Nebraska

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    19/45

    Southwestern Casserole

    I’ve been making this mild family-pleasing southwest casserole for years. It tastes wonderful and fits nicely into our budget. Best of all, the recipe makes a second casserole to freeze and enjoy later. —Joan Hallford, North Richland Hills, Texas

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    20/45

    Turkey Spaghetti Casserole

    My mom made this creamy and comforting dish while I was growing up. Whenever I have leftover chicken or turkey, I look forward to making this simple yet tasty meal. —Casandra Hetrick, Lindsey, Ohio

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    21/45

    Taste of Home

    Mushroom Turkey Tetrazzini

    This creamy, comforting casserole makes a fantastic way to use up that leftover Thanksgiving turkey. And it’s a real family-pleaser! —Linda Howe, Lisle, Illinois.

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    22/45

    Slow-Cooker Tater Tot Casserole

    What's not to love about classic Tater Tot casserole—especially when it's made in the slow cooker? You'll want to add this family-pleasing potluck favorite to your regular rotation. —Nick Iverson, Denver, Colorado

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    23/45

    Taste of Home

    Mac 'n' Cheese Dinner

    Don’t settle for ordinary mac and cheese. This version is my kids’ favorite, so I always make a huge pot. It’s an easy recipe to cut down or double (or triple!). It can also be made into a low-fat recipe if you use nonfat milk, reduced-fat cheeses and lean ham. —Raymond James, Port Orchard, Washington

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    24/45

    Taste of Home

    Beef Noodle Casserole

    This beef noodle casserole is perfect when there's a busy day coming up, because you can prepare it ahead of time. It's ideal for a potluck, too. The flavors blend together to create a delicious combination. —Grace Lema, Winton, California

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    25/45

    Cabbage Roll Casserole

    I layer cabbage with tomato sauce and ground beef lasagna-style to create a hearty casserole that tastes like cabbage rolls but without all the work. —Doreen Martin, Kitimat, British Columbia

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    26/45

    Taste of Home

    Meatballs Sausage Dinner

    One day I was having trouble deciding what to make for dinner, so I combined whatever was in the refrigerator and freezer. To my surprise, everyone loved it! —Elizabeth Martz, Pleasant Gap, Pennsylvania

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    27/45

    Salsa Verde Chicken Casserole

    This is a rich and surprisingly tasty rendition of a number of Tex-Mex dishes fused into one packed, beautiful casserole. Best of all, it’s ready in hardly any time! —Janet McCormick, Proctorville, Ohio

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    28/45

    Zucchini Lasagna

    We plant zucchini every year and always seem to have more than we can use! This hearty zucchini lasagna is a delicious way to use an abundant crop. —Charlotte McDaniel, Williamsville, Illinois

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    29/45

    Taste of Home

    Creamy Turkey Casserole

    I sometimes make turkey just so I have the extras for this casserole! —Mary Jo O'Brien, Hastings, Minnesota

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    30/45

    Fiesta Chicken

    Chili powder and picante sauce add just the right dash to this hearty main dish. It's a snap to assemble since it uses convenience foods. —Teresa Peterson, Kasson, Minnesota

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    31/45

    Vegetable Beef Casserole

    This easy one-dish recipe has been a family favorite ever since my husband's aunt handed it down to me decades ago. Try using whatever vegetables you have on hand. A simple salad goes nicely with this entree. —Evangeline Rew, Manassas, Virginia

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    32/45

    Contest-Winning Broccoli Chicken Casserole

    This delicious chicken and broccoli casserole recipe is a twist on chicken divan that came from an old boss. It’s quick, satisfying comfort food. —Jennifer Schlachter, Big Rock, Illinois

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    33/45

    Baked Beef Tacos

    This taco recipe takes classic taco ingredients and gives them a fresh approach by baking the shells upright in refried beans and tomatoes. The bottom gets soft, and the top stays crisp and crunchy. —Patricia Stagich, Elizabeth, New Jersey

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    34/45

    The entire family will enjoy this heartwarming, all-in-one dinner. Plus, it offers easy cleanup! —Mike Tchou, Pepper Pike, Ohio

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    35/45

    Roast Beef with Chive Roasted Potatoes

    It’s hard to believe that last night’s beef roast could get any better, but it shines in this heartwarming dish. —Taste of Home Test Kitchen

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    36/45

    Taste of Home

    Mexican Turkey Skillet

    This family-friendly main dish with turkey, black beans and vegetables has a rich Mexican flavor that may seem indulgent, but it’s delightfully light. Created by our Test Kitchen, it cooks in one skillet, so it’s a snap to clean up for a weeknight supper.

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    37/45

    Taste of Home

    Pork Spanish Rice

    My family wasn't fond of pork roast until I used it in this yummy casserole.—Betty Unrau, MacGregor, Manitoba

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    38/45

    Pastry-Topped Turkey Casserole

    My friends tell me this is the best potpie they've ever had. Hearty and full-flavored, my comforting classic never lets on that it’s also low in fat and a good source of fiber. —Agnes Ward, Stratford, Ontario

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    39/45

    Tuna Noodle Casserole

    Families are sure to love the creamy texture and comforting taste of this traditional tuna casserole that goes together in a jiffy. I serve it with a green salad and warm rolls for a nutritious supper. —Ruby Wells, Cynthiana, Kentucky

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    40/45

    Layered Beef Casserole

    On my busy days, I treasure meal-in-one recipes like this. Toss together a salad and dinner is ready in no time. —Dorothy Wiedeman, Eaton, Colorado

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    41/45

    Blend of the Bayou

    My sister-in-law shared this recipe with me when I first moved here. It's been handed down in my husband's family for generations. It's quick to prepare, nutritious and flavorful. I've passed it on to my children too.—Ruby Williams, Bogalusa, Louisiana

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    42/45

    Taste of Home

    Chili Mac Casserole

    This cheesy casserole uses several of my family's favorite ingredients, including macaroni, kidney beans, tomatoes and cheese. Just add a leafy salad for a complete meal. —Marlene Wilson, Rolla, North Dakota

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    43/45

    Taste of Home

    Church Supper Spaghetti

    Because this recipe feeds so many, I often take it to church dinners and potlucks. This colorful dish also comes in handy when we have lots of help to feed on our farm. —Verlyn Wilson, Wilkinson, Indiana

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    44/45

    Makeover Tater-Topped Casserole

    I love Tater Tot casserole, but wanted a lighter version of the recipe. The Taste of Home Test Kitchen slashed the fat in this classic dish, while keeping all the Tots my family loves. Who know you could have healthy Tater Tots?! —Scott Woodward, Shullsburg, Wisconsin

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    45/45

    Taste of Home

    Chicken Amandine

    With colorful green beans and pimientos, this attractive casserole is terrific for the holidays. This is true comfort food at its finest. —Kat Woolbright, Wichita Falls, Texas

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    Originally Published: August 01, 2019

    45 Low-Cal Casserole Recipes (46)

    Katie Bandurski

    As Senior Shopping Editor, Katie connects Taste of Home readers with the best gifts, deals and home products on the market. An avid foodie and a holiday enthusiast, Katie is an expert at cultivating meaningful moments.When she’s out of the office, you’ll find her exploring Wisconsin, trying out new vegetarian recipes and watching Christmas movies.

    45 Low-Cal Casserole Recipes (2024)

    FAQs

    Are casseroles healthy for you? ›

    Depending on the ingredients, casseroles can be healthy or not-so-healthy. The not-so-healthy casseroles generally contain a lot of butter, heavy cream, cheese, or fatty meats. Try to look for healthier versions, such as those that contain lean cuts of meat, poultry or fish.

    What is the best size casserole dish? ›

    The general rule of thumb is to plan for 1 litre per person, and then round up. So for a family of four, you would want something that is a minimum of 4 litres. And then with rounding up, the ideal size would be somewhere in the 5-6 litre capacity.

    Is a casserole a one dish meal? ›

    What is a Casserole? A casserole cooks all your ingredients at once in a single delicious dish. At its broadest, it's a collection of foods baked together in a dish, which covers everything from gratin to ziti.

    Why are casseroles popular in the Midwest? ›

    Many of the ingredients and inspiration behind these casseroles came from our European ancestors who settled in the Midwest, such as noodle casseroles from Germany, potato gratins from France, and shepherds' pies and pot pies from England.”

    What is the healthiest thing to cook? ›

    Sarah Brealey presents 25 simple suggestions for healthy meals.
    • Tuna and sweetcorn pasta.
    • Beans and greens.
    • Gazpacho.
    • Green beans with garlic and ginger.
    • Home-made tomato salsa.
    • White bean bruschetta.
    • Avocados with tuna.
    • Sweetcorn, tomato and avocado wrap.

    What's the healthiest dish to eat? ›

    Here are a few healthy dinner ideas:
    • Grilled chicken with quinoa and steamed broccoli.
    • Baked salmon with a side of roasted sweet potatoes and sautéed spinach.
    • Tofu stir-fry with colorful vegetables and brown rice.
    • Lentil soup with a mixed greens salad.
    • Chickpea curry with whole wheat naan bread.
    Oct 5, 2023

    What can I use instead of a 9x13 casserole dish? ›

    A recipe written for a 9” x 13” pan can also be made in two 9” round pans; one 9” round and one 8” round, or two 8” round pans. Baking times may vary due to slightly different depths of batter in the various pan combinations.

    How many casserole servings in a 9x13 pan? ›

    Starchy side dishes and casseroles: a 9 X 13 pan makes about 12 one cup servings. A 2 quart casserole will make 6 to 8 cups. A typical serving size for potatoes, stuffing, and yams is 1 cup.

    What size casserole for 6 people? ›

    The 30cm shallow casserole serves around four to six people and can hold 3.2 litres.

    What is the oldest known casserole? ›

    Macaroni and cheese is the oldest written casserole recipe found in 1250.

    What are 5 components of a casserole? ›

    Let's talk anatomy: A standard dinner casserole usually includes a protein, a starch, a vegetable, a sauce (or other binding ingredient), and cheese. But making a casserole is not an exact science, and you can definitely break away from this formula. Check out some fun side-dish casseroles and desserts below!

    Can I use a cast iron skillet as a casserole dish? ›

    We use our cast-iron skillets to make recipes from breakfast to dessert, so it's a no-brainer to create skillet casserole recipes. Here are some of our favorite, quick, comfort-food skillet casseroles.

    What do Minnesotans call casserole? ›

    Hotdish is common terminology in western Wisconsin and Minnesota, while casserole is the preferred name everywhere else in the country.

    What ethnicity is casserole? ›

    The word casserole is derived from a French word that means 'saucepan'. Apparently, casseroles originated as communal pots that people shared for meals. The oldest recipe for a casserole, around 1250, consisted of pasta sheets cooked in water, layered with grated cheese and spices.

    What is a great benefit of using casseroles? ›

    The neatly contained nature of casseroles makes them easy to bring to potlucks, picnics, and other get-togethers. A glass baking dish with a tight-fitting lid or disposable aluminum pan makes transportation even easier. If you know someone who could use a little homemade comfort, casseroles, make a great gift.

    What are 3 advantages of making a casserole? ›

    A quick casserole can be a great time saver on a busy night. Most casseroles contain a combination of protein, grains and vegetables. Reduce your time spent cooking multiple dishes by serving a one-dish meal. The cleanup is also easier!

    What are the advantages of casserole dishes? ›

    Casseroles are deemed great comfort food and has the benefits of being easy to put together as well as filling. More ingredients than required can be cooked in a casserole, and the left overs can be eaten through the subsequent days.

    Are home cooked meals unhealthy? ›

    It's proven to be healthier

    Some studies suggest that people who cook more often, rather than get take-out, have an overall healthier diet. These studies also show that restaurant meals typically contain higher amounts of sodium, saturated fat, total fat, and overall calories than home-cooked meals.

    References

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