Easy 5-Ingredient Casserole for a Cozy Dinner

INTRO PARAGRAPH

This 5-ingredient casserole is the quickest, coziest dinner you can make on a busy weeknight.
With simple pantry staples, creamy texture, and warm comforting flavors, this recipe saves your time while delivering full satisfaction.

Ingredients You Need

• 2 cups cooked rice or cooked pasta

• 1 cup shredded chicken or vegetables

• 1 cup cream of mushroom soup

• ½ cup shredded cheese

• Salt & pepper

How to Make This Cozy Casserole

Step 1 – Preheat Oven

Preheat to 375°F (190°C) for even baking.

Step 2 – Mix Everything Together

Stir all ingredients until creamy and well-blended.

Step 3 – Add to Baking Dish

Spread mixture in a lightly greased casserole dish.

Step 4 – Bake

Bake 20–25 minutes until bubbly and golden.

Step 5 – Serve Warm

Top with fresh herbs or extra cheese.

Why This Recipe Works

Only 5 Simple Ingredients

No complex prep, no long grocery list.

Perfect Comfort Food

Warm, creamy, satisfying—just what cozy dinners need.

Budget-Friendly & Quick

Ready in under 30 minutes with pantry items.

Tips to Make It Even Better

Add Crunch

Try breadcrumbs or fried onions on top.

Make It Protein-Rich

Add cooked chicken, turkey, or tuna.

Vegetarian Option

Use peas, broccoli, mushrooms, or corn.

Nutrition (Approx per Serving)

Nutrition Breakdown

• Calories: 310

• Protein: 14g

• Carbs: 26g

• Fat: 15g

1. What is an easy 5 ingredient casserole?

An easy 5 ingredient casserole is a simple baked dish made with only five ingredients, usually including a base (like rice or pasta), a protein, a creamy sauce, cheese, and seasoning. It’s the fastest way to make a cozy, low-effort dinner.

2.Can I customize an easy 5 ingredient casserole?

Yes! An easy 5 ingredient casserole is very flexible—you can use chicken, veggies, tuna, pasta, or rice. You can also add spices, cheese, or crunchy toppings to create your preferred flavor.

3. How long does it take to bake a 5 ingredient casserole?

Most easy 5 ingredient casserole recipes bake in 20–25 minutes at 375°F (190°C), making it perfect for busy weeknights.

4. Can I make a 5 ingredient casserole ahead of time?

Absolutely. You can prepare the easy 5 ingredient casserole mixture ahead of time, refrigerate it for 24 hours, and bake it when ready. It’s ideal for meal prep and freezer meals.

5. Is a 5 ingredient casserole good for meal prep?

Yes! An easy 5 ingredient casserole stores well in the refrigerator for 3–4 days and reheats perfectly, making it great for weekly meal prep.

6. Can I freeze an easy 5 ingredient casserole?

Yes. You can freeze the easy 5 ingredient casserole before or after baking. Wrap tightly, freeze for up to 3 months, and reheat when needed.

7. What can I serve with a 5 ingredient casserole?

An easy 5 ingredient casserole pairs well with salads, garlic bread, steamed vegetables, or soups for a complete cozy dinner.

8.Are 5 ingredient casseroles kid-friendly?

Yes! The creamy texture and mild flavor of an easy 5 ingredient casserole make it very kid-friendly and family-approved.

9. Can I make a vegetarian version of this casserole?

Definitely. A vegetarian easy 5 ingredient casserole can be made using mushrooms, broccoli, peas, or mixed vegetables along with soup and cheese.

10.What cheese works best in a 5 ingredient casserole?

For the best melt and flavor in an easy 5 ingredient casserole, use cheddar, mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or a mix of your favorite cheeses.