Casseroles just scream classic comfort food. Growing up, I have a fond memory of my Mom making her famous tuna noodle casserole. I just loved the cheesy pasta goodness that filled my mouth with every bite. On special nights when we were able to pick our dinner of choice, mine was always tuna noodle casserole. Casseroles are warm, hearty, and nourishing.
Now some casserole recipes can be heavier in calories, carbs, and fats than others. I’ve tasted many casseroles where you are thinking, “that is just a heart clogger in the making.” I’ve also experienced casserole recipes where you are pleasantly surprised how healthy the dish was since it tasted so sinfully delicious. One secret to making a healthy casserole is the ability to hide or add a lot of vegetables into the dish. Another tip is substituting some of the creams with Greek yogurt or using less cheese.
Here are 9 guilt-free healthy casserole recipes your family will love. They are also fabulous because you can make them ahead of time and just heat them up on a weeknight. In addition, all these recipes are complete meals with protein and vegetables included.
Get ready to enjoy all the love in these 9 healthy casserole recipes for a well-balanced, nutritious dinner.
Need I say more? This has cheese, love, vegetables, protein and comfort all in one bite.
- Moussaka: Meat & Vegetarian Version
On special occasions, Grandma used to make us a Croatian version of moussaka using ground beef. I adapted her original recipe for a low fat, low calorie one with all the flavors from the old world. She would be proud of this dish.
- Smoked Salmon & Vegetable Egg Casserole by Fannetastic Food (photo by Fannetastic Food)
Enjoy this egg casserole for dinner, brunch, or lunch. It’s divine. The protein from the salmon, feta cheese, and eggs will satisfy your savory needs. In addition, you have veggies galore to fill you up and help you feel strong. I’m a super fan of Fannetastic Food’s recipe!
- Tofu Broccoli Enchiladas
Make this meal for a Meatless Monday or for any night of the week. You have cheese, protein, and vegetables all in one Latin-inspired dish. It’s definitely kid-approved, too.
- Grandma’s Chicken Avala
Another fabulous recipe from Grandma. She sure knew how to include love and flavor in one meal. This is a perfect make-ahead recipe and great for a Sunday brunch. Prep the meal one to two days before. The day of the event, just pop it in the oven while you hang out with your guests. Free to mingle and play the day away while everyone thinks you slaved in the kitchen.
- Greek Pasta Beef Casserole by Chocolate Slopes (photo by Chocolate Slopes)
Talk about a delicious casserole recipe that only takes 15 minutes to prep and 20 minutes to cook. I was hooked when I tried Chocolate Slopes Greek Pasta Beef Casserole. Perfect for busy weeknights. Packed with protein and veggies. Satisfy your cheese craving with this dish.
A classic casserole for the meat and potato lover. This casserole includes hidden vegetables, too, for a complete and well-balanced meal. I make the mashed potatoes using cottage cheese for extra protein. Yummy Yummy for our Tummies.
Now what would a casserole round-up be without chicken pot pie?! Here’s a very healthy version of the classic dish with only 4.2 grams of fat and 210 calories per serving. All the taste, none of the guilt.
Lasagna is the Italians most famous casserole. Yes – it can be heavy from calories, cheese, and pasta. However, this version is a homemade, scrumptious treat where you’ll be showered with vegetables and transported to an old Italian village where someone’s grandma just cooked you their favorite meal.
What is your favorite casserole dish? Comment below and let me know. Here’s to fine comfort with our taste buds.
Sarah Koszyk, MA, RDN