The holiday season is a magical time of year when friends and family gather to share food, laughter, and joy. One of the easiest ways to feed a crowd during Christmas dinner is with casseroles. These dishes are ideal because they are often simple to prepare, full of comforting flavors, and perfect for serving multiple guests. Whether you’re looking for classic favorites or creative twists, these 19 hearty Christmas casseroles will surely make your holiday dinner a hit.
1. Classic Green Bean Casserole
Nothing says holiday comfort like a classic green bean casserole. Made with tender green beans, cream of mushroom soup, and crispy fried onions, it’s the quintessential side dish for any Christmas meal. Plus, it can be prepped ahead, saving you time on the big day.
2. Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes
Creamy, cheesy, and utterly indulgent, scalloped potatoes are a must-have on your Christmas dinner table. Layer thin slices of potatoes with cream, cheese, and seasonings for a dish that’s both elegant and satisfying. Add some ham or bacon for an extra layer of flavor!
3. Sweet Potato Casserole with Marshmallow Topping
Bring a touch of sweetness to your savory Christmas spread with a sweet potato casserole. Mashed sweet potatoes are combined with brown sugar and butter, then topped with a golden marshmallow layer. It’s a sweet yet hearty addition that guests of all ages will love.
4. Ham and Cheese Breakfast Casserole
Hosting a Christmas brunch or breakfast-for-dinner gathering? A ham and cheese breakfast casserole is the perfect solution. Packed with eggs, diced ham, cheese, and bread cubes, this casserole is a savory way to start or end your Christmas celebrations.
5. Broccoli Rice Casserole
This casserole is not only tasty but also a great way to sneak some veggies into your Christmas dinner. It features tender broccoli florets mixed with creamy cheese sauce and fluffy rice. The crispy breadcrumb topping adds a satisfying crunch to every bite.
6. Chicken and Stuffing Casserole
A delightful mix of rotisserie chicken, stuffing, and vegetables, this casserole is a fantastic way to use up leftovers or simply enjoy a comforting, easy-to-make dish. The combination of tender chicken, savory stuffing, and creamy gravy makes this a must-have for any holiday table.
7. Spinach and Artichoke Casserole
For a lighter, yet equally delicious option, try a spinach and artichoke casserole. Made with fresh spinach, artichoke hearts, and a creamy cheese sauce, this dish is a perfect side for Christmas dinner. It pairs well with any main course, from roasted turkey to glazed ham.
8. Baked Ziti with Sausage
Bring a taste of Italy to your Christmas dinner with a hearty baked ziti casserole. Loaded with zesty Italian sausage, tangy marinara sauce, and plenty of melted cheese, this dish is sure to warm up your guests and add a bold flavor to the menu.
9. Cornbread Sausage Casserole
Cornbread and sausage are a match made in heaven, especially when baked into a rich, savory casserole. This dish combines cornbread mix, ground sausage, eggs, and cheese to create a filling, Southern-inspired holiday treat.
10. Beef and Noodle Casserole
This casserole is a crowd-pleaser, perfect for meat lovers. Made with ground beef, egg noodles, and a savory tomato sauce, it’s topped with melted cheese and baked to perfection. It’s a great alternative to the usual holiday roasts, offering a hearty and flavorful main course.
11. Creamy Mushroom and Wild Rice Casserole
For a vegetarian-friendly option, this creamy mushroom and wild rice casserole is earthy, comforting, and full of festive flavors. The nutty taste of wild rice pairs beautifully with the richness of mushrooms and cream, making it a great side dish for Christmas dinner.
12. Cheesy Broccoli and Cauliflower Casserole
Why choose between broccoli and cauliflower when you can have both? This cheesy casserole combines these two cruciferous veggies in a rich cheese sauce, then bakes it until bubbly and golden. It’s a delicious way to incorporate some green into your Christmas feast.
13. Turkey and Cranberry Casserole
If you’re wondering what to do with leftover turkey, this turkey and cranberry casserole is your answer. Turkey, cranberry sauce, stuffing, and gravy are layered together to create a warm, satisfying dish that screams holiday flavors.
14. Loaded Baked Potato Casserole
Who can resist the classic combination of baked potatoes loaded with cheese, bacon, and sour cream? This loaded baked potato casserole brings those flavors to life in an easy-to-serve dish. It’s rich, indulgent, and the ultimate comfort food for Christmas dinner.
15. Shepherd’s Pie Casserole
This traditional casserole is packed with ground meat, vegetables, and a rich gravy, all topped with creamy mashed potatoes. It’s the perfect way to offer a hearty, stick-to-your-ribs main dish that’s both festive and satisfying.
16. French Toast Casserole
For a sweet addition to your Christmas brunch or dinner, try a French toast casserole. Made with thick slices of bread soaked in a custard-like mixture, cinnamon, and sugar, it’s baked until golden and served with syrup. It’s a decadent way to celebrate the season!
17. Chicken Alfredo Casserole
Creamy, cheesy, and loaded with pasta, this chicken Alfredo casserole is sure to be a hit. With tender pieces of chicken, fettuccine pasta, and a rich Alfredo sauce, this dish will impress your guests while being easy to prepare ahead of time.
18. Mac and Cheese with Bacon
No Christmas dinner is complete without a classic mac and cheese. Add bacon for an extra layer of flavor, and bake it until the cheese is bubbly and golden on top. It’s a simple yet decadent dish that kids and adults alike will adore.
19. Eggplant Parmesan Casserole
For a vegetarian option that still feels hearty and festive, an eggplant Parmesan casserole is a wonderful choice. Breaded slices of eggplant are layered with marinara sauce and melted cheese, then baked until everything is perfectly tender and delicious.
Christmas casseroles are the perfect way to make your holiday dinner both convenient and delicious. With these 19 hearty recipes, you’re sure to find something that fits your menu, whether you’re hosting a large family gathering or enjoying a more intimate meal. These casseroles can be made in advance, giving you more time to relax and enjoy the company of your loved ones on Christmas Day. So, go ahead and pick a few to try, and make this year’s holiday dinner one to remember.