Introduction
As the leaves start to turn and the crisp autumn air settles in, there’s nothing quite like a warm, comforting meal to gather your loved ones around the table. Enter the Quick & Creamy Cheesy Casserole—a dish that embodies the essence of the season with its rich flavors and hearty texture. Perfect for busy weeknights or a cozy weekend dinner, this casserole is not only a breeze to whip up in just 30 minutes but also bursting with cheesy goodness that everyone will adore.
Picture this: tender pasta enveloped in a velvety cheese sauce, accented with vibrant seasonal vegetables and a touch of savory herbs. This dish is a nostalgic nod to classic comfort food while being adaptable to whatever ingredients you have on hand. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or prepping for a fall gathering, this casserole is sure to warm hearts and delight taste buds. So, grab your apron, and let’s dive into this creamy, cheesy goodness that will have you celebrating autumn in every comforting bite!
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked pasta (penne or rotini work great)
- 1 can (15 oz) of diced tomatoes, drained
- 2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar or a blend of your favorites)
- 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). Grease a medium-sized casserole dish with a little cooking spray or butter.
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- In a large mixing bowl, combine 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. Stir until everything is well combined.
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- Fold in 1 1/2 cups of shredded cheese into the mixture, reserving 1/2 cup for topping.
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- Pour the pasta mixture into the prepared casserole dish, spreading it evenly.
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- If you’d like a crispy topping, mix the breadcrumbs with olive oil or melted butter in a small bowl. Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture evenly over the casserole.
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- Top the casserole with the remaining 1/2 cup of shredded cheese.
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- Bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes or until bubbly and golden brown on top.
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- Once done, remove the casserole from the oven and let it sit for a few minutes before serving.
- Prep Time: 10 min | Total Time: 30 min | Servings: 6
Key Ingredients
- Pasta: 2 cups of your choice (elbow macaroni, penne, or rotini work great)
- Cream Cheese: 8 oz, softened for easy mixing
- Shredded Cheese: 2 cups (a blend of cheddar and mozzarella for that perfect cheesy goodness)
- Milk: 1 cup, for creaminess
- Vegetables: 1 cup of your choice (e.g., broccoli, spinach, or bell peppers)
- Protein: 1 cup cooked (shredded chicken, ground beef, or black beans for a vegetarian option)
- Garlic Powder: 1 tsp for flavor
- Onion Powder: 1 tsp for depth
- Salt & Pepper: to taste
- Breadcrumbs: 1/2 cup, for a crunchy topping (optional)
- Fresh Herbs: 1/4 cup chopped (e.g., parsley or basil for garnish)
With these ingredients on hand, you’ll create a delightful, cozy meal that’s perfect for those chilly autumn nights!
Baking Process
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Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This will ensure that your casserole cooks evenly and quickly once assembled.
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Prepare Your Ingredients: Gather all of your ingredients. You’ll need cooked pasta, shredded cheese (cheddar or your favorite blend), cream of mushroom soup, milk, diced vegetables (like bell peppers, broccoli, or spinach), cooked protein (such as rotisserie chicken or cooked ground beef), and seasonings (like garlic powder, onion powder, and salt).
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Mix the Base: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta with cream of mushroom soup and milk. Stir until the pasta is well coated. This creamy base will provide the needed moisture to keep your casserole luscious and flavorful.
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Add the Cheese and Veggies: Fold in about two-thirds of your shredded cheese along with the diced vegetables of your choice. The cheese will not only enhance the flavor but also create a delightful gooey texture.
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Incorporate the Protein: If using meat or protein, add it into the mixture now, ensuring it’s evenly distributed throughout. This adds heartiness to your casserole, making it a complete meal in itself.
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Season It Up: Sprinkle in your selected seasonings, tasting as you go to adjust to your personal preference. This is a crucial step in developing the overall flavor of your dish.
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Transfer to Baking Dish: Spoon the mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Spread it out evenly, making sure the top is smooth.
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Top with Remaining Cheese: Sprinkle the remaining cheese over the top of your casserole. This will create a beautiful, golden-brown crust as it bakes.
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Bake: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until bubbly and the cheese on top is melted and golden. Keep an eye on it in the last few minutes to prevent burning.
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Cool and Serve: Once baked, remove the casserole from the oven and let it sit for about 5 minutes. This cooling period allows the flavors to meld together and makes it easier to serve.
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Enjoy Your Meal: Dish out generous portions and enjoy your Quick & Creamy Cheesy Casserole! Pair it with a simple side salad or some crusty bread for the ultimate autumn comfort meal.
Serving Suggestions
To elevate your Quick & Creamy Cheesy Casserole experience, consider the following serving suggestions that enhance both flavor and presentation:
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Fresh Green Salad: Pair the casserole with a crisp, seasonal green salad tossed in a light vinaigrette. Think mixed greens, sliced apples, walnuts, and crumbled feta for a refreshing contrast.
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Crusty Bread: Serve with a warm, crusty baguette or homemade garlic bread. The crunchy texture will complement the creamy casserole beautifully, allowing for some delightful scooping!
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Steamed Vegetables: Add a side of steamed broccoli, green beans, or roasted Brussels sprouts. Their earthy flavors and vibrant colors will balance the richness of the casserole.
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Herb Garnish: Sprinkle fresh herbs, such as parsley, chives, or thyme, over the top before serving. This adds a pop of color and freshness that brightens up the dish.
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Hot Sauce or Sriracha: For those who enjoy a bit of heat, offer a side of hot sauce or a drizzle of Sriracha on top. It adds an exciting kick that works wonderfully with cheesy dishes.
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Chili Flakes: A sprinkle of red chili flakes can bring just the right amount of spice, enhancing the flavors and inviting a bit of warmth to the table.
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Apple or Pumpkin Dessert: Continue the autumn theme with a delectable dessert. Consider serving individual apple crisps or mini pumpkin pies to round out the meal with a sweet touch.
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Cider or Seasonal Beverage: Pair the casserole with a glass of warm apple cider, spiced chai tea, or your favorite fall-inspired cocktail. A cozy drink can create the perfect comfort food vibe.
With these serving suggestions, your Quick & Creamy Cheesy Casserole will not only delight your taste buds but also create a wholesome and inviting dining experience. Enjoy your meal!
Conclusion
In just 30 minutes, you can whip up this Quick & Creamy Cheesy Casserole, transforming simple ingredients into a warm and comforting dish that celebrates the flavors of autumn. Its creamy texture, paired with gooey cheese and hearty vegetables, makes it a perfect weeknight meal that the whole family will adore. This casserole not only satisfies your cravings for comfort food but also allows for endless customization. Feel free to throw in your favorite veggies, proteins, or even swap cheeses based on what you have on hand.
Whether you’re curling up on a chilly evening or hosting a cozy gathering, this recipe is sure to warm hearts and fill bellies. Serve it alongside a crisp salad or some crusty bread, and you have a complete meal that’s easy to prepare and even easier to enjoy. So go ahead, try this dish and embrace the flavors of autumn with every creamy, cheesy bite!
