Husband Saver Casserole Simple and Filling Meal

Name: Husband Saver Casserole
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Ingredients: 2 cups cooked macaroni pasta; 1 can diced tomatoes with green chilies (15 oz); 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese; 1 cup cooked chicken, shredded; 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, corn); 1 cup sour cream; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon onion powder; 1 teaspoon paprika; to taste salt and pepper; 0.5 cup breadcrumbs

October 17, 2025July 13, 2025 by Lillian

Looking for a simple and filling meal that even picky eaters will love? You’re in the right place! The Husband Saver Casserole combines hearty ingredients like macaroni, chicken, and cheese into one easy dish. It’s quick to prepare and the perfect solution for hectic weeknights. Let’s dive into the delicious details that make this casserole a family favorite!

Why I Love This Recipe

Comforting and Hearty: This casserole is the perfect dish for a cozy family dinner, combining pasta, chicken, and veggies in a creamy sauce.
Easy to Prepare: With just a few simple steps, you can whip up this delicious meal in no time, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
Kid-Friendly: The cheesy goodness and familiar flavors make this casserole a hit with kids, ensuring they’ll clean their plates!
Versatile Ingredients: Feel free to customize the recipe by adding your favorite veggies or leftover proteins, making it your own!

Ingredients

To make Husband Saver Casserole, you need simple and tasty ingredients. Here’s a list to gather:

– 2 cups cooked macaroni pasta

– 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies

– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

– 1 cup cooked chicken, shredded

– 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, corn)

– 1 cup sour cream

– 1 teaspoon garlic powder

– 1 teaspoon onion powder

– 1 teaspoon paprika

– Salt and pepper to taste

– ½ cup breadcrumbs

Each of these ingredients plays a key role. The cooked macaroni serves as the base, giving you a hearty feel. Diced tomatoes add a zesty kick, while cheddar cheese makes it creamy and rich. Shredded chicken adds protein, making this dish filling. The mixed vegetables bring color and nutrients. Sour cream ties everything together, creating a smooth texture. Spices like garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika elevate the flavor. Finally, breadcrumbs add a crunchy topping, making every bite satisfying.

Gather these ingredients, and you are ready to create a meal that pleases everyone!

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparation Steps

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish. This step helps keep the casserole from sticking.

2. In a large bowl, mix these ingredients:

– 2 cups cooked macaroni pasta

– 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies

– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

– 1 cup cooked chicken, shredded

– 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, corn)

– 1 cup sour cream

Add garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper to taste. Stir everything well. This helps the flavors blend together.

3. Once mixed, spread the mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish. Make sure it is flat and even. This helps it cook properly.

Baking Instructions

1. In a small bowl, mix ½ cup breadcrumbs with a drizzle of olive oil. About 1 tablespoon will do. This makes the topping crisp and tasty.

2. Sprinkle the breadcrumb mix over the top of the casserole. This adds a nice crunch.

3. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes. Look for the top to become golden and crispy, and the casserole should be bubbly.

4. When done, take it out of the oven. Let it cool for 5 minutes before serving. This cooling time helps with cutting and serving. Enjoy the meal!

Tips & Tricks

Cooking Tips

– Best practices for boiling pasta: Start with a large pot of water. Add salt to the water before it boils. Bring it to a rolling boil. Add the macaroni and stir right away. Cook it until it’s al dente. Drain it well and rinse with cold water. This stops the cooking and keeps it firm.

– Ensuring even cooking of vegetables: Use frozen mixed veggies for this recipe. They cook fast and stay bright. Add them straight from the freezer to the mix. This helps keep their color and flavor. If using fresh veggies, chop them into small pieces. Cook them lightly before adding to the casserole.

Flavor Enhancements

– Recommended spices and herbs: Use garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika for a tasty kick. These spices add depth to the dish. You can also add a pinch of oregano or thyme for extra flavor. Fresh herbs can really brighten the casserole.

– Suggestions for cheese variations: Cheddar cheese is classic, but you can switch it up. Try mozzarella for a more gooey texture. Pepper jack adds a nice heat. If you want a sharper taste, use gouda or a mixture of different cheeses.

Pro Tips

Use Leftover Chicken: This casserole is a great way to use up leftover rotisserie chicken or any cooked chicken you have on hand for quick preparation.
Customize Veggies: Feel free to swap out the frozen mixed vegetables for your favorite veggies or whatever you have in your fridge for a personal touch.
Make Ahead: Prepare the casserole in advance and store it in the fridge before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it’s cold from the fridge.
Cheese Varieties: Experiment with different types of cheese like mozzarella or pepper jack for added flavor and creaminess.

Variations

Ingredient Swaps

You can change the protein in this dish easily. Ground beef or turkey makes a great swap. Just cook it first, and then mix it in. If you want a vegetarian option, try using black beans or lentils. They add great protein and flavor. You can also use tofu for a plant-based twist. Both options keep the meal filling and satisfying.

Flavor Combinations

Mixing up the veggies can add fun flavors. Try bell peppers, broccoli, or spinach for a colorful twist. You can also stir in some fresh herbs like basil or parsley for freshness. If you want extra flavor, add sauces. A bit of hot sauce adds heat, while barbecue sauce gives a sweet touch. Experiment with your favorite flavors to make this casserole your own!

Storage Info

Refrigeration Recommendations

To store leftover Husband Saver Casserole, let it cool first. Place it in an airtight container. This helps keep it fresh. It will last in the fridge for up to three days.

When you are ready to eat, reheat it in the oven. Set the oven to 350°F (175°C). Cover the dish with foil to keep it from drying out. Heat for about 20 minutes. You can also use a microwave for quick reheating. Just cover it with a microwave-safe lid and heat in one-minute bursts.

Freezing Instructions

To freeze the casserole, make sure it is completely cool. Then, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and place it in a freezer-safe bag. It can stay in the freezer for up to three months.

When you want to cook it from frozen, take it out the night before. Place it in the fridge to thaw slowly. If you forget, you can bake it straight from frozen. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and add about 10-15 extra minutes to the cooking time. Make sure it is heated all the way through before serving.

FAQs

Can I make Husband Saver Casserole ahead of time?

Yes, you can make this casserole ahead. Prepare it up to the baking step. Cover it well and store it in the fridge. When ready, bake it straight from the fridge. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time. This makes weeknight dinners easy and fast.

What can I substitute for sour cream?

You can use Greek yogurt as a great substitute for sour cream. It gives a similar tangy taste. Another option is cream cheese, but thin it with a bit of milk. Both options keep the dish creamy and delicious.

Is it possible to make this casserole vegetarian?

Absolutely! To make it vegetarian, skip the chicken. You can add more mixed vegetables or use beans for protein. Chickpeas or black beans work well. This way, you keep the meal hearty and filling.

How long does the casserole last in the fridge?

This casserole lasts about 3 to 4 days in the fridge. Store it in an airtight container to keep it fresh. If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing it instead.

Can I use different types of pasta?

Yes, you can use different pasta types. Shells, rotini, or penne are great choices. Just make sure to cook them until al dente. This way, the pasta won’t get mushy while baking. Feel free to experiment with your favorite pasta!

This blog post shared a simple, tasty casserole recipe that uses common ingredients. You learned how to prepare, bake, and serve a delicious dish everyone will enjoy. I also included tips for cooking, flavor ideas, and ways to store this meal. Remember, you can swap in different proteins and veggies to match your taste. So, gather your ingredients and start cooking. Enjoy each bite of your creatio

$To make Husband Saver Casserole, you need simple and tasty ingredients. Here’s a list to gather: - 2 cups cooked macaroni pasta - 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies - 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese - 1 cup cooked chicken, shredded - 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, corn) - 1 cup sour cream - 1 teaspoon garlic powder - 1 teaspoon onion powder - 1 teaspoon paprika - Salt and pepper to taste - ½ cup breadcrumbs Each of these ingredients plays a key role. The cooked macaroni serves as the base, giving you a hearty feel. Diced tomatoes add a zesty kick, while cheddar cheese makes it creamy and rich. Shredded chicken adds protein, making this dish filling. The mixed vegetables bring color and nutrients. Sour cream ties everything together, creating a smooth texture. Spices like garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika elevate the flavor. Finally, breadcrumbs add a crunchy topping, making every bite satisfying. Gather these ingredients, and you are ready to create a meal that pleases everyone! {{ingredient_image_1}} 1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9x13 inch baking dish. This step helps keep the casserole from sticking. 2. In a large bowl, mix these ingredients: - 2 cups cooked macaroni pasta - 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies - 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese - 1 cup cooked chicken, shredded - 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, corn) - 1 cup sour cream Add garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper to taste. Stir everything well. This helps the flavors blend together. 3. Once mixed, spread the mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish. Make sure it is flat and even. This helps it cook properly. 1. In a small bowl, mix ½ cup breadcrumbs with a drizzle of olive oil. About 1 tablespoon will do. This makes the topping crisp and tasty. 2. Sprinkle the breadcrumb mix over the top of the casserole. This adds a nice crunch. 3. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes. Look for the top to become golden and crispy, and the casserole should be bubbly. 4. When done, take it out of the oven. Let it cool for 5 minutes before serving. This cooling time helps with cutting and serving. Enjoy the meal! - Best practices for boiling pasta: Start with a large pot of water. Add salt to the water before it boils. Bring it to a rolling boil. Add the macaroni and stir right away. Cook it until it's al dente. Drain it well and rinse with cold water. This stops the cooking and keeps it firm. - Ensuring even cooking of vegetables: Use frozen mixed veggies for this recipe. They cook fast and stay bright. Add them straight from the freezer to the mix. This helps keep their color and flavor. If using fresh veggies, chop them into small pieces. Cook them lightly before adding to the casserole. - Recommended spices and herbs: Use garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika for a tasty kick. These spices add depth to the dish. You can also add a pinch of oregano or thyme for extra flavor. Fresh herbs can really brighten the casserole. - Suggestions for cheese variations: Cheddar cheese is classic, but you can switch it up. Try mozzarella for a more gooey texture. Pepper jack adds a nice heat. If you want a sharper taste, use gouda or a mixture of different cheeses. Pro Tips Use Leftover Chicken: This casserole is a great way to use up leftover rotisserie chicken or any cooked chicken you have on hand for quick preparation. Customize Veggies: Feel free to swap out the frozen mixed vegetables for your favorite veggies or whatever you have in your fridge for a personal touch. Make Ahead: Prepare the casserole in advance and store it in the fridge before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it’s cold from the fridge. Cheese Varieties: Experiment with different types of cheese like mozzarella or pepper jack for added flavor and creaminess. {{image_2}} You can change the protein in this dish easily. Ground beef or turkey makes a great swap. Just cook it first, and then mix it in. If you want a vegetarian option, try using black beans or lentils. They add great protein and flavor. You can also use tofu for a plant-based twist. Both options keep the meal filling and satisfying. Mixing up the veggies can add fun flavors. Try bell peppers, broccoli, or spinach for a colorful twist. You can also stir in some fresh herbs like basil or parsley for freshness. If you want extra flavor, add sauces. A bit of hot sauce adds heat, while barbecue sauce gives a sweet touch. Experiment with your favorite flavors to make this casserole your own! To store leftover Husband Saver Casserole, let it cool first. Place it in an airtight container. This helps keep it fresh. It will last in the fridge for up to three days. When you are ready to eat, reheat it in the oven. Set the oven to 350°F (175°C). Cover the dish with foil to keep it from drying out. Heat for about 20 minutes. You can also use a microwave for quick reheating. Just cover it with a microwave-safe lid and heat in one-minute bursts. To freeze the casserole, make sure it is completely cool. Then, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and place it in a freezer-safe bag. It can stay in the freezer for up to three months. When you want to cook it from frozen, take it out the night before. Place it in the fridge to thaw slowly. If you forget, you can bake it straight from frozen. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and add about 10-15 extra minutes to the cooking time. Make sure it is heated all the way through before serving. Yes, you can make this casserole ahead. Prepare it up to the baking step. Cover it well and store it in the fridge. When ready, bake it straight from the fridge. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time. This makes weeknight dinners easy and fast. You can use Greek yogurt as a great substitute for sour cream. It gives a similar tangy taste. Another option is cream cheese, but thin it with a bit of milk. Both options keep the dish creamy and delicious. Absolutely! To make it vegetarian, skip the chicken. You can add more mixed vegetables or use beans for protein. Chickpeas or black beans work well. This way, you keep the meal hearty and filling. This casserole lasts about 3 to 4 days in the fridge. Store it in an airtight container to keep it fresh. If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing it instead. Yes, you can use different pasta types. Shells, rotini, or penne are great choices. Just make sure to cook them until al dente. This way, the pasta won’t get mushy while baking. Feel free to experiment with your favorite pasta! This blog post shared a simple, tasty casserole recipe that uses common ingredients. You learned how to prepare, bake, and serve a delicious dish everyone will enjoy. I also included tips for cooking, flavor ideas, and ways to store this meal. Remember, you can swap in different proteins and veggies to match your taste. So, gather your ingredients and start cooking. Enjoy each bite of your creation!$