Introduction
As the leaves turn golden and the air turns crisp, there’s nothing quite like a warm, comforting meal to embrace the spirit of autumn. That’s where this Quick & Creamy Cheesy Casserole comes in! Perfect for busy weeknights, this dish brings together flavors that celebrate the season while being incredibly easy to whip up in just 30 minutes.
Imagine sinking your spoon into a bubbling casserole pot filled with creamy cheese, tender pasta, and colorful seasonal veggies. Not only is it hearty and filling, but it’s also a breeze to prepare, making it an ideal choice for cozy family dinners or last-minute gatherings. Plus, the best part? You can customize it with whatever ingredients you have on hand—be it leftover roasted vegetables, a mix of cheeses, or your favorite proteins.
Join me as we dive into this delightful recipe that warms the heart and nourishes the soul, making it the perfect comfort food for those chilly autumn evenings. Let’s get cooking!
Ingredients
- 2 cups prepared pasta (penne or rotini are excellent choices)
- 1 can (15 oz) of diced tomatoes, drained
- 2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar or a mix of your preferences)
- 1 cup cooked and crumbled sausage or ground turkey
- 1 cup cream of mushroom soup
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (optional for topping)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or melted butter
Instructions
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- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a medium casserole dish using cooking spray or butter.
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- In a spacious mixing bowl, merge the cooked pasta, drained diced tomatoes, cooked sausage (or ground turkey), cream of mushroom soup, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are well incorporated.
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- Gently fold in 1 1/2 cups of the shredded cheese into the mixture, setting aside 1/2 cup for the topping.
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- Transfer the pasta mixture into the prepared casserole dish, spreading it out evenly.
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- For a crunchy topping, combine the breadcrumbs with olive oil or melted butter in a small bowl. Evenly distribute the breadcrumb mixture over the casserole.
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- Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of shredded cheese on top of the casserole.
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- Bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes or until the top is bubbly and golden brown.
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- When finished, take the casserole out of the oven and allow it to rest for a few minutes before serving.
- Prep Time: 10 min | Total Time: 30 min | Servings: 6
Key Ingredients
- Pasta: 2 cups of your favorite pasta (elbow macaroni, penne, or rotini work great)
- Cheese: 2 cups of shredded cheese (a mix of cheddar and mozzarella for creaminess)
- Cream of mushroom soup: 1 can (10.5 oz) for a rich, creamy base
- Milk: 1 cup for added creaminess
- Ground beef or turkey: 1 pound, cooked and crumbled (optional for a protein boost)
- Vegetables: 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables (peas, corn, and carrots) or fresh veggies like spinach or bell peppers
- Garlic powder: 1 teaspoon for flavor
- Onion powder: 1 teaspoon for depth of taste
- Salt and pepper: To taste, enhancing the overall flavor
- Breadcrumbs: 1 cup for a crunchy topping (optional, can be omitted for a gluten-free option)
- Parmesan cheese: 1/2 cup for added richness in the topping
Feel free to customize your casserole with seasonal vegetables or whatever cheese you have on hand for a personal touch!
Baking Process
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Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures that your casserole bakes evenly and achieves that perfect bubbly, golden top.
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Prepare the Ingredients: While the oven is heating, gather all your ingredients. You’ll need cooked pasta (like penne or rotini), your choice of vegetables (such as broccoli or spinach), shredded cheese (think cheddar, mozzarella, or a blend), a creamy base (like cream of mushroom soup or a homemade cheese sauce), and any desired seasonings (salt, pepper, garlic powder, and Italian herbs work wonderfully).
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Mix the Base: In a large mixing bowl, combine the creamy base with your choice of seasonings. Stir in cooked pasta and your vegetables until everything is well-coated and mixed. This is where you can taste and adjust seasoning levels to suit your preference.
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Add the Cheese: Gently fold in about half of the shredded cheese into the mixture. This helps create that luscious, gooey texture once baked.
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Assemble the Casserole: Transfer the pasta and veggie mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Spread it evenly across the dish to ensure uniform cooking.
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Top with Cheese: Sprinkle the remaining shredded cheese over the top of the casserole. This layer will become beautifully melty and add a tantalizing golden crust.
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Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the cheese is melted, bubbly, and just starting to brown around the edges.
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Let it Rest: Once out of the oven, let your casserole sit for 5 minutes. This resting time allows the flavors to meld and makes it easier to serve.
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Serve and Enjoy: Scoop generous portions onto plates, and dig in! This quick and creamy cheesy casserole is perfect as a cozy meal on chilly autumn evenings. Pair it with a simple side salad or some crusty bread for an extra comforting dinner.
Feel free to get creative with additional toppings or mix-ins, but this base recipe is sure to be a hit on those busy fall nights!
Serving Suggestions
To elevate your Quick & Creamy Cheesy Casserole experience, consider these delightful serving suggestions:
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Fresh Green Salad: Pair your casserole with a crisp side salad dressed with a light vinaigrette. This adds a refreshing contrast to the richness of the dish. Toss in nuts or seeds for added crunch.
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Garlic Bread: Serve alongside warm, toasted garlic bread or breadsticks. The buttery, garlicky flavors complement the cheesy casserole beautifully.
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Roasted Vegetables: Add a side of roasted seasonal vegetables, such as Brussels sprouts, carrots, or sweet potatoes. Their natural sweetness will enhance the comforting flavors of the casserole.
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Chili Flakes or Hot Sauce: For those who enjoy a bit of heat, a sprinkle of red pepper flakes or a dash of your favorite hot sauce can elevate the dish and add an exciting kick.
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Herb Garnish: Finish the casserole with a sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley, chives, or thyme. They not only add color but also a burst of fresh flavor that can brighten the dish.
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Apple or Pumpkin Soup: For a cozy meal, consider serving it as a main course alongside a warm bowl of apple or pumpkin soup for a delightful autumn-themed feast.
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Wine Pairing: If you’re enjoying this dish for a special occasion, consider pairing it with a glass of Chardonnay or a light-bodied red wine. The cheese-rich flavors complement these wines beautifully.
Feel free to mix and match these suggestions based on your tastes. Enjoy the heartwarming comfort of your Quick & Creamy Cheesy Casserole, and happy dining!
Conclusion
This Quick & Creamy Cheesy Casserole is the ultimate go-to recipe for those chilly autumn evenings when all you crave is a heartwarming dish that comes together in a flash. With just 30 minutes from start to finish, it’s perfect for busy weeknights or impromptu gatherings. The combination of pasta, creamy cheese, and seasonal veggies creates a satisfying meal that not only fills your stomach but warms your soul.
Feel free to customize this casserole to suit your taste—swap in your favorite cheeses, add in some proteins, or toss in whatever seasonal vegetables you have on hand. The possibilities are endless! Whether served alongside a crisp green salad or as a stand-alone dish, this casserole is sure to become a new family favorite. Enjoy every cheesy, creamy bite, and embrace the flavors of autumn!
