Modern-Day Casseroles
It's the word many of us cringe upon hearing. Casseroles. Memories of the classic green bean casserole, made with condensed cream of mushroom soup and topped with crispy onions, may come to mind for some, while the mention of tuna noodle casserole or chicken tetrazzini may conjure fond childhood memories for others.
Whatever your relation with casseroles may be, these old-fashioned baked dishes are making a comeback, this time with fresh ingredients and a from-scratch approach. According to Faith Durand, author of "Not Your Mother's Casseroles," these one-dish meals have their "roots in humble peasant meals made by cooks who were using what was near to hand in frugal, thrifty recipes that let nothing go to waste." Skipping over the part of casserole history where cream-based soups were used, people are still turning to casseroles for similar reasons today; these are easy to make and healthy dishes made up of a variety of fresh ingredients. And when there are a variety of casseroles to choose from, from clafoutis and breakfast frittatas; to vegetable tians and cheesy lasagnas; or sweet and creamy tiramisus and bread puddings, it's hard to become bored of casseroles.
Vegetable Casseroles:
Char-Baked Tomato, Zucchini, and Eggplant
From The Daily Meal
An easy-to-make vegetable side dish that is suitable for casual weeknight meals, or your holiday table.
From The Daily Meal
Slowly baking this one-pot vegetable dish renders the slices creamy and tender, with a bit of caramelized flavor. The crunchy parmesan crust is a delightful contrast to the delicate interior.
Sweet Potato Chard and Coconut Milk Casserole
From The Daily Meal
A vegan vegetable dish that can be served either as a main dish or side dish, depending on your audience.
Side Dish Casseroles:
From The Daily Meal
A variation on a classic layered cheese and potato dish; this recipe calls for sweet potatoes instead of white potatoes.
From The Daily Meal
Once you make this cheesy and creamy mac and cheese, there is no going back to the stuff from the box.
Main Dish Casseroles:
Oven Paella with Chicken, Shrimp, and Chorizo
From The Daily Meal
An easier, oven-baked version of the classic Spanish seafood dish.
From The Daily Meal
Iron Chef Cat Cora took her mom's signature enchilada recipe and created a healthier version, with less fat, more vegetables, and packed full of flavor.
From The Daily Meal
Just because you're trying to lose weight doesn't mean you have to avoid tacos or casseroles; try this Weight Watchers-friendly recipe and see for yourself.
Dessert Casseroles:
Chocolate Zucchini Bread Pudding
From The Daily Meal
Instead of using zucchini bread as the base of this bread pudding, it is finely chopped and added to the egg mixture before the cubes of bread are stirred in.
From The Daily Meal
A simple, fruit-based dessert that is best served with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream. If you don't like pears, you can also substitute in sliced apples, a variety of berries, or a mixture sliced stone fruits.
No-Bake Boston Cream Pie Strata
From The Daily Meal
The classic Boston cream pie is crossed with a no-bake icebox cake in this recipe for a delicious layered pudding dessert.