Looking for a comforting, hearty meal that takes almost no effort to prepare? This Impossibly Easy Casserole is your new go-to dinner recipe! Perfect for busy weeknights or when you want something warm and satisfying without spending hours in the kitchen.
Packed with simple ingredients and bursting with flavor, this casserole combines convenience with taste, making it a favorite for families and beginners alike. Plus, it’s highly customizable to suit your pantry and preferences!
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken (rotisserie or leftover chicken works great)
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup (or cream of chicken soup)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup cooked pasta (elbow macaroni or penne)
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/2 cup frozen peas (optional)
- 1/2 cup crushed crackers or breadcrumbs (for topping)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil or butter (for greasing the baking dish)
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat Oven and Prepare Baking Dish
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch casserole dish with olive oil or butter.
Step 2: Mix the Casserole Ingredients
In a large bowl, combine the cooked chicken, cream of mushroom soup, shredded cheddar cheese, cooked pasta, sour cream, milk, and frozen peas (if using). Season with salt and pepper to taste. Stir everything together until well mixed.
Step 3: Transfer to Baking Dish
Pour the mixture into the greased casserole dish and spread evenly.
Step 4: Add Topping
Sprinkle the crushed crackers or breadcrumbs evenly over the top of the casserole for a crispy, golden crust.
Step 5: Bake
Bake uncovered for 25-30 minutes or until the casserole is hot and bubbly and the topping is golden brown.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy!
Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your warm, cheesy, and comforting Impossibly Easy Casserole!
Why This Recipe Works
This casserole is truly impossibly easy because it uses pantry staples and cooked ingredients, which means no complicated steps or long prep times. You can customize it with different veggies, switch up the cheese, or use a different protein like turkey or tuna. It’s perfect for meal prep and tastes even better the next day!
Bottom Line
If you’re short on time but still want a homemade meal that feels like a treat, this Impossibly Easy Casserole recipe has got you covered. It’s quick, versatile, and crowd-pleasing. Give it a try tonight and see how easy dinner can be!
FAQs
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can assemble the casserole a day in advance, cover it tightly, and store it in the fridge. Bake it fresh the next day for the best taste and texture.
Can I freeze leftovers?
Yes, this casserole freezes well. Portion the leftovers into airtight containers and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
What can I substitute for cream of mushroom soup?
If you don’t have cream of mushroom soup, cream of chicken or cream of celery soups work great too. For a homemade version, mix 1 cup milk, 1 tablespoon butter, 1 tablespoon flour, and some seasoning, cook until thickened.
Can I make it vegetarian?
Definitely! Simply swap the chicken for extra veggies like mushrooms, bell peppers, zucchini, or beans and use a vegetarian cream soup.