Hey there, fellow home cooks! Let me tell you, family dinners are one of my absolute favorite parts of the day. There’s just something so heartwarming about gathering around the table, sharing stories, and enjoying a delicious meal together. But let’s be real—sometimes life gets hectic, and the last thing I want to do is spend hours slaving away in the kitchen. That’s where these easy family dinner casseroles come into play! They’re a lifesaver for busy nights and the perfect way to bring everyone together without breaking a sweat.

This casserole recipe is not only simple but also packed with flavor and nutrition. Imagine tender pasta mingling with juicy chicken, crisp broccoli, and a creamy sauce, all topped off with a gooey layer of melted cheese. Yum! Plus, it’s super versatile, so you can tweak it to your family’s liking. Trust me, once you whip this up, it’ll quickly become a go-to in your weeknight rotation. So, let’s dive into the ingredients and get cooking!

Ingredients List

Here’s what you’ll need to create this delicious casserole. Don’t worry if you’re new to cooking; I’ll break it down for you!

• 2 cups cooked pasta: I love using rotini or penne for this recipe. Just boil it according to the package instructions until al dente, then drain and set aside.
• 1 cup cooked chicken, shredded: You can easily use leftover rotisserie chicken or poach some chicken breasts. Just make sure it’s shredded into bite-sized pieces for easy mixing.
• 1 cup broccoli, chopped: Fresh or frozen works here! If using fresh, chop it into small florets. If using frozen, just thaw it a bit before adding.
• 1 can cream of chicken soup: This is the magical ingredient that brings everything together. You can also use a low-sodium version if you’re watching your salt intake.
• 1 cup shredded cheese: I like using cheddar for a nice sharp flavor, but feel free to mix it up with mozzarella or a cheese blend!
• 1/2 cup milk: Any milk will do—whole, skim, or even a plant-based option if you prefer!
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder: This adds a lovely flavor kick, but if you’re a garlic lover, you could even use fresh minced garlic.
• Salt and pepper to taste: Just a sprinkle to bring all those flavors to life. Start with a little and adjust as you go!

And that’s it! Simple, right? Let’s get ready to mix it all together and create something delicious!

How to Prepare Instructions

Now that we have our ingredients all set, let’s get to the fun part—putting it all together! Don’t worry, I’ll walk you through each step nice and easy. Just follow along, and soon you’ll have a fantastic casserole ready to serve!

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat your oven: First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This way, it’ll be nice and hot when it’s time to bake our casserole!
2. Mix the base: In a large bowl, combine your cooked pasta, shredded chicken, and chopped broccoli. Give it a gentle stir to make sure everything is evenly mixed. It should look colorful and inviting!
3. Add the creamy goodness: Now, add in the cream of chicken soup, milk, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. This is where the magic happens! Mix everything together until it’s well combined—don’t be afraid to get your hands in there if you need to!
4. Transfer to a baking dish: Grab a greased baking dish (a 9×13 inch works perfectly) and pour the mixture in. Spread it out evenly so every bite gets the same deliciousness!
5. Top it off: Sprinkle the shredded cheese on top, making sure to cover the entire surface. This is what’s going to give us that gooey, melty topping we all love!
6. Bake to perfection: Pop the baking dish into your preheated oven and bake for about 25–30 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the cheese is bubbly and golden brown. Just imagine that aroma filling your kitchen—wow!
7. Cool and serve: Once it’s out of the oven, let it cool for a few minutes. This step is important because it allows the casserole to set a bit, making it easier to serve. Then, scoop it onto plates and enjoy!

And that’s it! You’ve just created a delicious easy family dinner casserole that everyone will love. Now, let’s move on to some reasons why you’ll adore this recipe even more!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• It’s super easy to make—perfect for beginner cooks!
• One dish means less cleanup, which is a huge win after a busy day.
• It’s packed with wholesome ingredients, making it a nutritious choice for the whole family.
• You can customize it with your favorite veggies or proteins to suit everyone’s tastes.
• Leftovers are just as tasty, so you can enjoy it for lunch the next day!
• The gooey, cheesy top layer is always a crowd-pleaser—who doesn’t love melted cheese?
• It’s versatile enough for any occasion, whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a casual gathering.

Tips for Success

Now that you’re ready to whip up this delicious casserole, here are some handy tips to ensure it turns out just right every time! Trust me, these little nuggets of wisdom can make all the difference in your cooking experience.

• Don’t overcook the pasta: Since the pasta will bake in the oven, make sure to cook it al dente. That way, it won’t get mushy in the casserole!
• Mix thoroughly: When combining your ingredients, make sure everything is well mixed. You want that creamy goodness to coat every piece of chicken and broccoli!
• Use a large enough baking dish: If your dish is too small, the casserole might overflow while baking. Stick with a 9×13 inch dish for the best results!
• Let it rest: After baking, let the casserole cool for about 5 minutes before serving. This gives it time to set, making it easier to scoop and serve.
• Taste and adjust: Don’t forget to taste the mixture before baking! If you think it needs a bit more seasoning, feel free to add extra salt, pepper, or even a sprinkle of Italian herbs.
• Experiment with cheeses: If you want to switch things up, try mixing different types of cheese for a unique flavor. A blend of cheddar and mozzarella is always a hit!

With these tips in your back pocket, you’re all set to make a fabulous easy family dinner casserole that everyone will rave about. Now, let’s explore some fun variations to keep things exciting!

Variations

The best part about this easy family dinner casserole is how adaptable it is! You can easily customize it to suit your family’s preferences or whatever you have on hand. Here are some fun variations to try:

• Vegetable Medley: Feel free to swap out the broccoli for other veggies like bell peppers, spinach, or zucchini. Just chop them up into small pieces so they cook evenly!
• Protein Power: If chicken isn’t your thing, you can use shredded turkey, ground beef, or even diced tofu for a vegetarian option. Chickpeas work beautifully if you’re looking for a plant-based protein!
• Different Cheeses: Experiment with different cheeses! Try a mix of Swiss and mozzarella for a milder flavor, or go bold with pepper jack for a spicy kick.
• Pasta Choices: Switch up the pasta type! Macaroni, fusilli, or even whole grain pasta can add a fun twist to your casserole.
• Herb It Up: Add fresh herbs like parsley, basil, or thyme into the mix for an extra burst of flavor. Just a handful finely chopped can take it to the next level!
• Spicy Addition: If your family enjoys a little heat, toss in some diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce into the mixture for a zesty surprise!

These variations make it easy to keep this casserole exciting and tailored to your tastes. I can’t wait to see what combinations you come up with! Happy cooking!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Now that you’ve enjoyed your delicious easy family dinner casserole, let’s talk about storing those leftovers. Trust me, you’ll want to save every last bite! Here’s how to do it properly:

• Storing Leftovers: Once your casserole has cooled down, transfer any leftovers to an airtight container. This will help keep it fresh for those busy days ahead. You can store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just make sure it’s sealed tightly to avoid any funky fridge odors!
• Freezing for Later: If you want to save it for a longer period, you can freeze your casserole! Just wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. It should stay good for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, just thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Now, let’s get to reheating! You want to make sure it tastes just as good as the first time:

• Reheating in the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the casserole in an oven-safe dish, cover it with aluminum foil to keep it from drying out, and heat for about 20–25 minutes. If it’s frozen, it might take a bit longer, closer to 40–45 minutes, but just keep an eye on it!
• Microwave Method: If you’re in a hurry, you can reheat individual portions in the microwave. Just place a serving on a microwave-safe plate, cover it with a damp paper towel, and heat for 1–2 minutes, checking for warmth in between. Be careful, it can get hot quickly!

And there you have it! With these simple storage and reheating tips, you can enjoy your casserole long after it’s out of the oven. Happy eating!

Nutritional Information

Before you dig in, here’s a look at the nutritional information for this easy family dinner casserole. Keep in mind that these values can vary based on the specific ingredients and brands you use. It’s always a good idea to check the labels for the most accurate information! Here’s what you can expect per serving:

• Serving Size: 1 cup
• Calories: 350
• Sugar: 2g
• Sodium: 600mg
• Fat: 15g
• Saturated Fat: 8g
• Unsaturated Fat: 5g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 35g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 20g
• Cholesterol: 60mg

Enjoy your meal knowing you’re serving up something both delicious and nutritious for your family!

FAQ Section

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole the night before and store it in the fridge, covered tightly. Just pop it in the oven when you’re ready to bake it the next day. It might need a few extra minutes in the oven since it’ll be cold from the fridge.

What can I use instead of cream of chicken soup?
If you’re looking for a substitute, you can use cream of mushroom soup or even a homemade white sauce. Just keep in mind that it might slightly change the flavor, but it’ll still be delicious!

Can I use frozen chicken or vegetables?
Yes, you can! Frozen chicken works great if it’s pre-cooked and shredded. For veggies, frozen broccoli is a fantastic option. Just thaw them a bit before mixing, so they blend in well!

How do I make this casserole gluten-free?
To make this casserole gluten-free, simply use gluten-free pasta and check that your cream of chicken soup is gluten-free as well. There are many great brands available now that cater to gluten-free diets!

Can I double this recipe?
Yes, you can totally double the recipe! Just make sure to use a larger baking dish and increase the baking time slightly. Keep an eye on it to ensure everything cooks evenly.

Easy Family Dinner Casseroles: 7 Steps to Deliciousness

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• Author: Julia marin
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

A simple and delicious casserole recipe perfect for family dinners.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 2 cups cooked pasta
• 1 cup cooked chicken, shredded
• 1 cup broccoli, chopped
• 1 can cream of chicken soup
• 1 cup shredded cheese
• 1/2 cup milk
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste

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Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine cooked pasta, shredded chicken, and chopped broccoli.
3. Add cream of chicken soup, milk, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
4. Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish.
5. Sprinkle shredded cheese on top.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes until bubbly and golden.
7. Let it cool for a few minutes before serving.

Notes

• For a vegetarian option, replace chicken with chickpeas.
• You can use any type of cheese you prefer.
• Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Dinner
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup
• Calories: 350
• Sugar: 2g
• Sodium: 600mg
• Fat: 15g
• Saturated Fat: 8g
• Unsaturated Fat: 5g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 35g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 20g
• Cholesterol: 60mg

Keywords: easy family dinner casseroles