50 Frugal Casserole Meals to Feed Your Family
Casseroles are the ultimate comfort food, perfect for feeding a crowd or meal prepping for the week ahead. Even better, many casserole recipes are budget-friendly, making them ideal for families looking to stretch their grocery dollars. In this roundup, we’ve gathered 50 delicious and frugal casserole recipes to satisfy your taste buds without breaking the bank.
From classic tuna noodle casseroles to creative vegetarian options, these dishes showcase how versatile and economical casseroles can be. Whether you’re cooking for a large family, hosting a potluck, or simply looking to save time and money in the kitchen, these recipes have got you covered. So grab your baking dish and dive into these wallet-friendly, crowd-pleasing casseroles!
1. Mexican Stuffed Shells

This creative fusion dish combines the flavors of Mexican cuisine with the comfort of stuffed pasta shells. Filled with seasoned ground beef and cheese and topped with enchilada sauce, Mexican Stuffed Shells offer a unique twist on both Italian and Mexican favorites that’s sure to please the whole family.
2. Crack Chicken Casserole
Indulge in this creamy, cheesy casserole featuring tender chicken, crispy bacon, and a blend of irresistible flavors. Crack Chicken Casserole is a crowd-pleasing dish perfect for potlucks or family dinners, offering a satisfying meal that won’t break the bank.
3. Layered Mexican Breakfast Casserole

Start your day with this hearty breakfast with tortillas, eggs, cheese, and Mexican-inspired flavors. This Mexican Breakfast Casserole is an excellent make-ahead dish for busy mornings or weekend brunch gatherings, providing a filling and flavorful start to the day.
4. Vegan Corn Casserole
Experience a plant-based twist on the classic corn casserole, perfect for those following a vegan diet or looking to incorporate more meatless meals. This Vegan Corn Casserole doesn’t sacrifice flavor or texture, making it a great side dish for any occasion.
5. Gluten-Free Vegan Baked Ziti

Enjoy a comforting pasta bake that’s both gluten-free and vegan, proving that dietary restrictions don’t mean sacrificing flavor. This Gluten-Free Vegan Baked Ziti combines tender gluten-free pasta with a rich tomato sauce and dairy-free cheese for a satisfying meal that caters to multiple dietary needs.
6. Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole
Experience all the flavors of the classic chicken cordon bleu in an easy, budget-friendly casserole form. This Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole layers chicken, ham, and Swiss cheese in a creamy sauce, topped with crispy breadcrumbs for a delicious twist on the traditional recipe.
7. Walking Taco Casserole

Delight in this fun, deconstructed version of tacos in casserole form, great for feeding a crowd. Walking Taco Casserole layers crushed tortilla chips, seasoned ground beef, and all your favorite taco toppings in one easy-to-serve dish perfect for game days or casual gatherings.
8. Cheesy Spinach and Beef Casserole
Savor this nutritious and satisfying casserole, combining lean ground beef, spinach, and melty cheese. Cheesy Spinach and Beef Casserole is a great way to incorporate more vegetables into your diet while still enjoying a hearty, comforting meal that’s kid-friendly and budget-conscious.
9. Green Chili Egg Casserole

Spice up your breakfast routine with this Southwestern-inspired Green Chili Egg Casserole featuring a kick from green chilies. It’s a protein-packed dish perfect for brunch or a breakfast-for-dinner option, easily customizable with your favorite cheese and additional vegetables.
10. Ham and Broccoli Casserole
Make the most of leftover ham with this comforting Ham and Broccoli Casserole that pairs it with budget-friendly frozen broccoli. Covered in a creamy cheese sauce and topped with crispy breadcrumbs, it’s a delicious way to stretch your ingredients and create a satisfying meal.
11. Chicken Pasta Bake

This classic Chicken Pasta Bake is perfect for family dinners, combining tender chunks of chicken with pasta and vegetables in a creamy sauce. Topped with cheese and baked until golden, it’s a comforting dish that will surely become a regular meal rotation.
12. Keto Chicken Broccoli Casserole
Enjoy a low-carb, keto-friendly casserole that’s easy to prepare in your slow cooker. This Keto Chicken Broccoli Casserole combines tender chicken and crisp broccoli in a rich, cheesy sauce, offering a satisfying meal that fits into a ketogenic lifestyle without sacrificing flavor.
13. Keto Enchilada Casserole

Indulge in the flavors of traditional enchiladas with this low-carb alternative. Keto Enchilada Casserole uses thin slices of zucchini instead of tortillas, layering seasoned meat, enchilada sauce, and cheese for a keto-friendly meal that’s both satisfying and flavorful.
14. Pizza Pasta Bake
Combine two favorite foods in this kid-friendly Pizza Pasta Bake that merges pizza flavors with the comfort of a pasta bake. Featuring pasta, pizza sauce, favorite pizza toppings, and plenty of cheese, it’s a crowd-pleasing dish that’s perfect for picky eaters and adults alike.
15. Creamy Pierogi Casserole

Experience the flavors of Polish pierogies in an easy casserole form. This comforting Pierogi Casserole layers sliced potatoes with onions, bacon, and a creamy cheese sauce, offering all the delicious tastes of traditional pierogies without the fuss of making them from scratch.
16. Pulled Pork Tater Tot Casserole
Put leftover pulled pork to good use in this ultra-simple, four-ingredient dish. Pulled Pork Tater Tot Casserole combines pulled pork with crispy tater tots, cheese, and barbecue sauce, creating a quick and easy meal that transforms leftovers into a new family favorite.
17. Pumpkin French Toast Casserole

Enjoy the flavors of fall any time of year with this sweet breakfast casserole featuring warm pumpkin spices. Pumpkin French Toast Casserole is prepared the night before and baked in the morning, perfect for lazy weekend brunches or holiday breakfasts, offering a delicious twist on traditional French toast.
18. Forgotten Chicken Casserole
Discover the ease of this “set it and forget it” dish that’s both simple and delicious. Forgotten Chicken Casserole combines chicken, rice, and a creamy mushroom sauce, requiring minimal prep and delivering maximum flavor, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
19. Beef Tamale Casserole

Savor all the flavors of tamales in an easy-to-prepare casserole form. Beef Tamale Casserole layers seasoned ground beef with a cornbread-like topping, offering the taste of traditional tamales without the time-consuming process of wrapping individual portions.
20. Green Chile Hashbrown Casserole
Add a spicy twist to your breakfast routine with this Green Chile Hashbrown Casserole. Combining crispy hashbrowns with green chiles, cheese, and eggs, it’s a hearty and flavorful dish perfect for brunch or a breakfast-for-dinner option.
21. Vegan Enchilada Casserole

Enjoy a plant-based version of enchiladas that doesn’t sacrifice flavor. This Vegan Enchilada Casserole layers tortillas with a savory vegetable and bean filling, topped with a zesty green sauce for a satisfying and budget-friendly meatless meal.
22. Cheesy Zucchini Casserole
Make the most of summer zucchini with this Cheesy Zucchini Casserole. It’s a great way to use garden produce in a comforting dish, combining tender zucchini with a creamy, cheesy sauce and crunchy topping.
23. Cheesy Tuna Rice Casserole

This budget-friendly Cheesy Tuna Rice Casserole swaps traditional noodles for rice, creating a hearty and satisfying meal. It’s a great way to stretch a can of tuna into a filling dinner for the whole family.
24. Easy Chili Casserole
Transform basic chili into a complete meal with this Easy Chili Casserole. Layering chili with cornbread and cheese creates a satisfying dish for cold evenings or potluck gatherings.
25. Baked Penne Pasta Casserole with Turkey and Spinach

Enjoy a healthier pasta bake featuring lean turkey and nutrient-rich spinach. This Baked Penne Pasta Casserole is a great way to incorporate more vegetables into your meal while still indulging in the comfort of a cheesy pasta dish.
26. Biscuits and Gravy Casserole
Experience a comforting breakfast casserole that turns a classic Southern dish into a sharable feast. Biscuits and Gravy Casserole layers fluffy biscuits with savory sausage gravy for a hearty start to your day.
27. Chicken Broccoli Stuffing Casserole

Create a one-dish meal combining protein, vegetables, and stuffing for a complete dinner. Chicken Broccoli Stuffing Casserole is a comforting and budget-friendly option that’s sure to become a family favorite.
28. Vegetarian Mexican Lasagna
Layer tortillas with beans, vegetables, and cheese for a Mexican-inspired vegetarian dish. This Vegetarian Mexican Lasagna is a flavorful and filling meal perfect for Meatless Mondays or any day of the week.
29. Southern Sweet Potato Casserole with Pecan Topping

Indulge in a sweet and savory side dish that’s a must-have for holiday meals. Southern Sweet Potato Casserole features creamy mashed sweet potatoes topped with a crunchy pecan streusel for a delicious contrast in textures.
30. Vegetarian Sausage and Bean Casserole
Enjoy a hearty vegetarian casserole that’s full of protein and flavor. This Vegetarian Sausage and Bean Casserole combines plant-based sausages with various beans and vegetables for a satisfying and nutritious meal.
31. Slow-Cooked Vegetarian Sausage Casserole

Let your slow cooker do all the work with this Slow-Cooked Vegetarian Sausage Casserole. It’s a hearty, meat-free option that combines vegetarian sausages with a rich tomato sauce and vegetables for a comforting meal perfect for chilly evenings.
32. Cheeseburger Tater Tot Casserole
Combine two comfort food favorites in this kid-friendly Cheeseburger Tater Tot Casserole. Featuring seasoned ground beef, cheese, and crispy tater tots, it’s a crowd-pleasing dish that’s sure to satisfy burger and potato lovers alike.
33. Tex Mex Bisquick Breakfast Casserole

Start your day with a quick and easy breakfast casserole featuring Southwestern flavors. This Tex Mex Bisquick Breakfast Casserole is packed with eggs, cheese, and spicy sausage for a hearty morning meal.
34. Cheesy Corn Casserole
Whip up this simple side dish that’s always a hit at potlucks and family gatherings. Cheesy Corn Casserole combines sweet corn with a creamy, cheesy base for a comforting and crowd-pleasing addition to any meal.
35. Mexican Pasta Bake

Enjoy a fusion dish that combines the best of Italian and Mexican cuisines. This Mexican Pasta Bake features pasta tossed with seasoned ground beef, salsa, and plenty of cheese for a unique and satisfying casserole.
36. Cheesy Broccoli Cauliflower Casserole
Create a vegetable-packed side dish that even picky eaters will love. Cheesy Broccoli Cauliflower Casserole smothers nutritious vegetables in a creamy cheese sauce for a delicious way to eat more greens.
37. Hamburger Rice Casserole

Stretch ground beef with rice and vegetables in this budget-friendly main dish. Hamburger Rice Casserole is a simple, satisfying meal perfect for busy weeknights.
38. Broccoli Casserole with Ritz Crackers
Enjoy a classic vegetable side dish with a crunchy, buttery topping. This Broccoli Casserole combines tender broccoli with a creamy sauce, topped with crushed Ritz crackers for a delightful texture contrast.
39. Chicken Potato Bake

Create a hearty one-dish meal combining chicken and potatoes in a creamy sauce. Chicken Potato Bake is a comforting casserole that’s sure to become a family favorite.
40. One Skillet Stuffed Cabbage Casserole
Experience all the flavors of stuffed cabbage rolls in an easier, deconstructed form. This One Skillet Stuffed Cabbage Casserole saves time without sacrificing taste.
41. Sweet Potato Ground Beef Casserole

Enjoy a nutritious and filling casserole that’s easy on the budget. Sweet Potato Ground Beef Casserole combines lean ground beef with sweet potatoes for a satisfying and wholesome meal.
42. Best Mac and Cheese Casserole
Indulge in an elevated version of the classic mac and cheese, perfect for special occasions. This Mac and Cheese Casserole features a rich, creamy sauce and a crispy breadcrumb topping.
43. Sausage and Bean Casserole

Warm up with this hearty, protein-packed casserole, perfect for cold winter nights. Sausage and Bean Casserole combine savory sausages with various beans in a flavorful tomato-based sauce.
44. Meatball Casserole
Transform store-bought or homemade meatballs into a delicious casserole. Meatball Casserole combines tender meatballs with pasta and a rich tomato sauce for a hearty and satisfying meal.
45. Baked Cheesy Cauliflower Casserole

Try a low-carb alternative to mac and cheese that’s just as satisfying. This Baked Cheesy Cauliflower Casserole is a delicious way to enjoy vegetables in a comforting, cheesy dish.
46. Chicken Enchilada Casserole Verde
Enjoy the flavors of chicken enchiladas in an easy-to-prepare casserole form. This Chicken Enchilada Casserole Verde features a zesty green sauce for a delicious twist on the classic red enchilada sauce.
47. Stuffed Pepper Casserole

Get all the flavors of stuffed peppers without the fuss of individual preparation. Stuffed Pepper Casserole combines ground beef, rice, and bell peppers in a savory tomato sauce for a comforting one-dish meal.
48. Million Dollar Chicken Casserole
Indulge in a rich, creamy chicken dish that tastes like a million bucks without the hefty price tag. Million Dollar Chicken Casserole is a decadent comfort food perfect for special occasions.
49. Chili Cornbread Casserole

Combine two comfort food favorites in one dish with this Chili Cornbread Casserole. A layer of hearty chili topped with golden cornbread makes for a satisfying and budget-friendly meal.
50. Baked Sardine Casserole
Make the most of budget-friendly canned sardines with this surprisingly delicious Baked Sardine Casserole. Paired with potatoes and vegetables, it’s a nutritious and economical meal perfect for those looking to incorporate more fish into their diet.
Final Thoughts on Frugal Casserole Meals
Casseroles are a fantastic way to create delicious, satisfying meals while keeping your grocery budget in check. These 50 recipes demonstrate the incredible variety possible within the world of casseroles, from breakfast options to vegetarian delights and classic comfort foods.
By utilizing affordable ingredients, using leftovers, and often creating enough for multiple meals, these casserole meals are a great choice for budget-conscious cooks. They’re also great for batch cooking and freezing, helping you save both time and money in the long run.
We hope this collection inspires you to try new recipes and rediscover old favorites. Remember, the beauty of casseroles lies in their flexibility – don’t be afraid to experiment with ingredients you have on hand or adjust seasonings to suit your taste.