15 Best Pasta Casserole Recipes To Try Today

1K

15 Global Pasta Casserole Recipes for Every Table

Contents show

Delight in the comforting ease of Mangoes and Palm Trees’ 15 best pasta casserole recipes, inspired by cuisines from Italy to Mexico!

Envision a global banquet where the simplicity of **pasta casserole recipes** transforms into extraordinary meals—Southern Italian chicken parmesan bakes, Eastern European sausage penne, and Mexican beef noodle delights. At *Mangoes and Palm Trees*, we celebrate the versatility of pasta casseroles, drawing on worldwide culinary traditions, including Natalia’s Siberian heritage, to create **global pasta dishes** that are easy, affordable, and perfect for family dinners or batch cooking. From our Southern Italian Chicken Parmesan Casserole to Million Dollar Spaghetti, these **easy pasta casserole recipes** offer hearty, healthy, and flavorful options. Explore this vibrant collection and dive into more at our Recipes Collection.


Why Pasta Casseroles?

Pasta casseroles are the ultimate comfort food, combining the ease of pasta with the heartiness of baked dishes. Requiring minimal ingredients—often just pantry staples—they’re perfect for busy weeknights or feeding a crowd. At *Mangoes and Palm Trees*, we’ve reimagined pasta casseroles with global flair, incorporating Italian, Eastern European, and Mexican influences to create **healthy pasta meals** that are both budget-friendly and delicious. Whether you’re using leftover ingredients or experimenting with new flavors, pasta casseroles are a versatile canvas for global creativity. Discover more pasta inspiration in our Sauce Recipes.

The Global Appeal of Pasta Casseroles

From Italian baked ziti to Eastern European noodle bakes, pasta casseroles are beloved worldwide for their simplicity and comforting flavors. Their ability to meld with diverse ingredients—cheeses, meats, vegetables, and spices—makes them a staple in many cuisines. Our recipes offer a **100% unique** approach, blending authentic global traditions with modern ease for dishes that satisfy (Bon Appétit).


Signature Recipe: Southern Italian Chicken Parmesan Casserole

Start your global pasta journey with our flagship **Southern Italian Chicken Parmesan Casserole**, a *Mangoes and Palm Trees* exclusive that layers tender chicken, rigatoni, and a basil-infused tomato sauce, topped with melted cheeses for a comforting, crowd-pleasing dish.

Ingredients

IngredientQuantityPurpose
Chicken breast1 lbProtein base
Rigatoni pasta8 ozPasta base
Marinara sauce2 cupsSauce base
Mozzarella cheese1 cupMelty topping
Parmesan cheese1/2 cupNutty flavor
Panko breadcrumbs1/2 cupCrispy topping
Olive oil2 tbspCooking base
Dried basil1 tspItalian herb
Salt1 tspFlavor enhancer
Fresh parsley1 tbspGarnish

Cooking Method

Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Cook 8 oz rigatoni pasta until al dente, then drain. In a skillet, heat 1 tbsp olive oil and cook 1 lb diced chicken breast with 1 tsp salt for 5-6 minutes until browned. In a greased 9x13-inch baking dish, layer pasta, chicken, 2 cups marinara sauce, 1 tsp basil, 1 cup shredded mozzarella, and 1/2 cup grated Parmesan. Mix 1/2 cup panko with 1 tbsp olive oil, sprinkle over top, and bake for 20-25 minutes until bubbly and golden. Garnish with 1 tbsp chopped parsley for a Southern Italian-inspired dish (The Cozy Cook). Pair with our Grilled Chicken Recipes.

Yield: 6 servings. Nutrition (Per Serving): ~400 kcal, 30g protein, 15g fat, 35g carbs, 3g fiber, 700mg sodium.


14 More Global Pasta Casserole Inspirations

Beyond our signature casserole, here are 14 additional **pasta casserole recipes**, each infused with a *Mangoes and Palm Trees* global twist, drawing from cuisines worldwide to spark your culinary creativity.

2. Southern U.S. BBQ Ranch Chicken Casserole

Smoky chicken casserole with a ranch-tangy twist.

Ingredients

IngredientQuantityPurpose
Chicken breast1 lbProtein base
Penne pasta8 ozPasta base
BBQ sauce1/2 cupSmoky flavor
Ranch dressing1/4 cupTangy creaminess
Cheddar cheese1 cupMelty topping
Bacon4 slicesCrispy garnish
Olive oil1 tbspCooking base
Smoked paprika1 tspSouthern spice
Salt1/2 tspFlavor enhancer
Green onions1 tbspGarnish

Cooking Method

Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Cook 8 oz penne pasta until al dente, then drain. In a skillet, heat 1 tbsp olive oil and cook 1 lb diced chicken breast with 1 tsp smoked paprika and 1/2 tsp salt for 5 minutes until browned. In a greased baking dish, mix pasta, chicken, 1/2 cup BBQ sauce, 1/4 cup ranch dressing, and 1 cup shredded cheddar. Top with 4 crumbled bacon slices and bake for 20 minutes until bubbly. Garnish with 1 tbsp chopped green onions for a Southern U.S.-inspired dish (Kleinworth & Co).

Yield: 6 servings. Nutrition (Per Serving): ~450 kcal, 30g protein, 20g fat, 35g carbs, 2g fiber, 800mg sodium.

3. Italian Pizza Casserole

Pizza-inspired casserole with a pepperoni-oregano topping.

Ingredients

IngredientQuantityPurpose
Ground beef1 lbProtein base
Rigatoni pasta8 ozPasta base
Pepperoni1/2 cupPizza flavor
Marinara sauce2 cupsSauce base
Mozzarella cheese1 cupMelty topping
Dried oregano1 tspItalian herb
Olive oil1 tbspCooking base
Salt1 tspFlavor enhancer
Black pepper1/2 tspSubtle spice
Basil1 tbspGarnish

Cooking Method

Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Cook 8 oz rigatoni pasta until al dente, then drain. In a skillet, heat 1 tbsp olive oil and cook 1 lb ground beef with 1 tsp salt and 1/2 tsp pepper for 5 minutes until browned. In a greased baking dish, mix pasta, beef, 2 cups marinara sauce, 1/2 cup pepperoni, 1 tsp oregano, and 1 cup shredded mozzarella. Bake for 20 minutes until bubbly. Garnish with 1 tbsp chopped basil for an Italian-inspired dish (Eating on a Dime).

Yield: 6 servings. Nutrition (Per Serving): ~400 kcal, 25g protein, 18g fat, 35g carbs, 3g fiber, 700mg sodium.

4. Southern Italian Ziti Pasta Casserole

Cheesy ziti with a garlic-basil sauce.

Ingredients

IngredientQuantityPurpose
Ziti pasta8 ozPasta base
Marinara sauce2 cupsSauce base
Mozzarella cheese1 cupMelty topping
Parmesan cheese1/2 cupNutty flavor
Garlic2 clovesAromatic base
Dried basil1 tspItalian herb
Olive oil1 tbspCooking base
Salt1 tspFlavor enhancer
Black pepper1/2 tspSubtle spice
Fresh parsley1 tbspGarnish

Cooking Method

Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Cook 8 oz ziti pasta until al dente, then drain. In a skillet, heat 1 tbsp olive oil and sauté 2 minced garlic cloves for 1 minute. In a greased baking dish, mix pasta, 2 cups marinara sauce, 1 tsp basil, 1 tsp salt, 1/2 tsp pepper, 1 cup shredded mozzarella, and 1/2 cup grated Parmesan. Bake for 20 minutes until bubbly. Garnish with 1 tbsp chopped parsley for a Southern Italian-inspired dish (Together as Family).

Yield: 6 servings. Nutrition (Per Serving): ~350 kcal, 15g protein, 12g fat, 45g carbs, 3g fiber, 600mg sodium.

5. American Broccoli Chicken Noodle Casserole

Healthy casserole with a creamy cheddar sauce.

Ingredients

IngredientQuantityPurpose
Chicken breast1 lbProtein base
Egg noodles8 ozPasta base
Broccoli florets2 cupsVegetable filler
Cheddar cheese1 cupMelty topping
Cream of chicken soup1 can (10.5 oz)Creamy sauce
Milk1/2 cupSauce thinner
Olive oil1 tbspCooking base
Salt1 tspFlavor enhancer
Black pepper1/2 tspSubtle spice
Parsley1 tbspGarnish

Cooking Method

Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Cook 8 oz egg noodles until al dente, then drain. In a skillet, heat 1 tbsp olive oil and cook 1 lb diced chicken breast with 1 tsp salt and 1/2 tsp pepper for 5 minutes until browned. In a greased baking dish, mix noodles, chicken, 2 cups broccoli, 1 can cream of chicken soup, 1/2 cup milk, and 1 cup shredded cheddar. Bake for 20 minutes until bubbly. Garnish with 1 tbsp parsley for an American-inspired dish (Stylish Cravings). Pair with our Healthy Meal Plans.

Yield: 6 servings. Nutrition (Per Serving): ~350 kcal, 25g protein, 15g fat, 30g carbs, 3g fiber, 700mg sodium.

6. Southern Italian Lasagna Casserole

Rich lasagna with a ricotta-basil layer.

Ingredients

IngredientQuantityPurpose
Ground beef1 lbProtein base
Penne pasta8 ozPasta base
Marinara sauce2 cupsSauce base
Ricotta cheese1 cupCreamy layer
Mozzarella cheese1 cupMelty topping
Parmesan cheese1/2 cupNutty flavor
Dried basil1 tspItalian herb
Olive oil1 tbspCooking base
Salt1 tspFlavor enhancer
Basil leaves1 tbspGarnish

Cooking Method

Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Cook 8 oz penne pasta until al dente, then drain. In a skillet, heat 1 tbsp olive oil and cook 1 lb ground beef with 1 tsp salt for 5 minutes until browned. In a greased baking dish, layer pasta, beef, 2 cups marinara sauce, 1 cup ricotta, 1 tsp basil, 1 cup shredded mozzarella, and 1/2 cup grated Parmesan. Bake for 20 minutes until bubbly. Garnish with 1 tbsp fresh basil for a Southern Italian-inspired dish (Princess Pinky Girl). Pair with our Sauce Recipes.

Yield: 6 servings. Nutrition (Per Serving): ~450 kcal, 25g protein, 20g fat, 40g carbs, 3g fiber, 800mg sodium.

7. Eastern European Italian Sausage Penne Casserole

Spicy sausage casserole with a paprika-tomato sauce.

Ingredients

IngredientQuantityPurpose
Italian sausage1 lbProtein base
Penne pasta8 ozPasta base
Marinara sauce2 cupsSauce base
Mozzarella cheese1 cupMelty topping
Parmesan cheese1/2 cupNutty flavor
Paprika1 tspEastern European spice
Olive oil1 tbspCooking base
Salt1 tspFlavor enhancer
Black pepper1/2 tspSubtle spice
Parsley1 tbspGarnish

Cooking Method

Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Cook 8 oz penne pasta until al dente, then drain. In a skillet, heat 1 tbsp olive oil and cook 1 lb Italian sausage with 1 tsp paprika, 1 tsp salt, and 1/2 tsp pepper for 5 minutes until browned. In a greased baking dish, mix pasta, sausage, 2 cups marinara sauce, 1 cup shredded mozzarella, and 1/2 cup grated Parmesan. Bake for 20 minutes until bubbly. Garnish with 1 tbsp parsley for an Eastern European-inspired dish (Great Grub Delicious Treats).

Yield: 6 servings. Nutrition (Per Serving): ~450 kcal, 25g protein, 20g fat, 40g carbs, 3g fiber, 800mg sodium.

8. Southern Italian Dump and Bake Chicken Alfredo Casserole

Creamy Alfredo casserole with a garlic-parmesan crust.

Ingredients

IngredientQuantityPurpose
Rotisserie chicken2 cupsProtein base
Penne pasta8 ozPasta base
Alfredo sauce2 cupsCreamy sauce
Parmesan cheese1/2 cupNutty topping
Garlic2 clovesAromatic base
Chicken broth1 cupCooking liquid
Olive oil1 tbspBaking base
Salt1/2 tspFlavor enhancer
Black pepper1/4 tspSubtle spice
Parsley1 tbspGarnish

Cooking Method

Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). In a greased 9x13-inch baking dish, combine 8 oz uncooked penne pasta, 2 cups shredded rotisserie chicken, 2 cups Alfredo sauce, 1 cup chicken broth, 2 minced garlic cloves, 1/2 tsp salt, and 1/4 tsp pepper. Sprinkle with 1/2 cup grated Parmesan and drizzle with 1 tbsp olive oil. Cover with foil and bake for 30 minutes. Uncover, bake for 10 minutes until golden. Garnish with 1 tbsp parsley for a Southern Italian-inspired dish (The Seasoned Mom).

Yield: 6 servings. Nutrition (Per Serving): ~400 kcal, 25g protein, 18g fat, 35g carbs, 2g fiber, 700mg sodium.

9. American Sloppy Joe Casserole

Meaty casserole with a sweet-tangy Manwich sauce.

Ingredients

IngredientQuantityPurpose
Ground beef1 lbProtein base
Egg noodles8 ozPasta base
Manwich sauce1 can (15 oz)Sweet-tangy sauce
Cheddar cheese1 cupMelty topping
Corn1 cupVegetable filler
Chicken broth1 cupCooking liquid
Olive oil1 tbspCooking base
Salt1 tspFlavor enhancer
Black pepper1/2 tspSubtle spice
Parsley1 tbspGarnish

Cooking Method

Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Cook 8 oz egg noodles until al dente, then drain. In a skillet, heat 1 tbsp olive oil and cook 1 lb ground beef with 1 tsp salt and 1/2 tsp pepper for 5 minutes until browned. In a greased baking dish, mix noodles, beef, 1 can Manwich sauce, 1 cup corn, 1 cup chicken broth, and 1 cup shredded cheddar. Bake for 20 minutes until bubbly. Garnish with 1 tbsp parsley for an American-inspired dish (The Cozy Cook).

Yield: 6 servings. Nutrition (Per Serving): ~400 kcal, 20g protein, 15g fat, 45g carbs, 3g fiber, 800mg sodium.

10. Mexican Beef Noodle Casserole

Spicy beef casserole with a chili-tomato sauce.

Ingredients

IngredientQuantityPurpose
Ground beef1 lbProtein base
Egg noodles8 ozPasta base
Tomato sauce2 cupsSauce base
Cheddar cheese1 cupMelty topping
Chili powder1 tspMexican spice
Onion1 mediumSweet depth
Olive oil1 tbspCooking base
Salt1 tspFlavor enhancer
Black pepper1/2 tspSubtle spice
Cilantro1 tbspGarnish

Cooking Method

Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Cook 8 oz egg noodles until al dente, then drain. In a skillet, heat 1 tbsp olive oil and cook 1 lb ground beef with 1 diced onion, 1 tsp chili powder, 1 tsp salt, and 1/2 tsp pepper for 5 minutes until browned. In a greased baking dish, mix noodles, beef, 2 cups tomato sauce, and 1 cup shredded cheddar. Bake for 20 minutes until bubbly. Garnish with 1 tbsp cilantro for a Mexican-inspired dish (Dinner at the Zoo).

Yield: 6 servings. Nutrition (Per Serving): ~400 kcal, 25g protein, 18g fat, 35g carbs, 3g fiber, 700mg sodium.

11. Southern Italian Baked Spaghetti and Meatballs Casserole

Classic spaghetti with a cheesy meatball layer.

Ingredients

IngredientQuantityPurpose
Ground beef1 lbProtein base
Spaghetti8 ozPasta base
Marinara sauce2 cupsSauce base
Mozzarella cheese1 cupMelty topping
Parmesan cheese1/2 cupNutty flavor
Breadcrumbs1/2 cupMeatball binding
Egg1 largeMeatball binder
Dried oregano1 tspItalian herb
Salt1 tspFlavor enhancer
Basil1 tbspGarnish

Cooking Method

Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Cook 8 oz spaghetti until al dente, then drain. In a bowl, mix 1 lb ground beef, 1/2 cup breadcrumbs, 1 egg, 1 tsp oregano, and 1/2 tsp salt; form into 12 meatballs. In a skillet, cook meatballs for 5 minutes until browned. In a greased baking dish, mix spaghetti, meatballs, 2 cups marinara sauce, 1 cup shredded mozzarella, and 1/2 cup grated Parmesan. Bake for 20 minutes until bubbly. Garnish with 1 tbsp basil for a Southern Italian-inspired dish (Bowl Me Over).

Yield: 6 servings. Nutrition (Per Serving): ~450 kcal, 25g protein, 20g fat, 40g carbs, 3g fiber, 800mg sodium.

12. Southern Italian Chicken Casserole

Creamy chicken casserole with a rosemary-cream sauce.

Ingredients

IngredientQuantityPurpose
Chicken breast1 lbProtein base
Penne pasta8 ozPasta base
Cream of chicken soup1 can (10.5 oz)Creamy sauce
Mozzarella cheese1 cupMelty topping
Rosemary1 tspItalian herb
Olive oil1 tbspCooking base
Garlic2 clovesAromatic base
Salt1 tspFlavor enhancer
Black pepper1/2 tspSubtle spice
Parsley1 tbspGarnish

Cooking Method

Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Cook 8 oz penne pasta until al dente, then drain. In a skillet, heat 1 tbsp olive oil and cook 1 lb diced chicken breast with 2 minced garlic cloves, 1 tsp salt, and 1/2 tsp pepper for 5 minutes until browned. In a greased baking dish, mix pasta, chicken, 1 can cream of chicken soup, 1 tsp rosemary, and 1 cup shredded mozzarella. Bake for 20 minutes until bubbly. Garnish with 1 tbsp parsley for a Southern Italian-inspired dish (Bake at Midnite).

Yield: 6 servings. Nutrition (Per Serving): ~400 kcal, 25g protein, 15g fat, 35g carbs, 2g fiber, 700mg sodium.

13. Southern Italian Baked Tortellini Casserole

Filled tortellini with a marinara-parsley sauce.

Ingredients

IngredientQuantityPurpose
Cheese tortellini16 ozPasta base
Marinara sauce2 cupsSauce base
Mozzarella cheese1 cupMelty topping
Parmesan cheese1/2 cupNutty flavor
Fresh parsley2 tbspHerb flavor
Olive oil1 tbspBaking base
Salt1/2 tspFlavor enhancer
Black pepper1/4 tspSubtle spice

Cooking Method

Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). In a pot, mix 16 oz cheese tortellini, 2 cups marinara sauce, 1/2 tsp salt, 1/4 tsp pepper, and 1 tbsp chopped parsley. Transfer to a greased baking dish, top with 1 cup shredded mozzarella, 1/2 cup grated Parmesan, and drizzle with 1 tbsp olive oil. Bake for 20 minutes until bubbly. Garnish with 1 tbsp parsley for a Southern Italian-inspired dish (Recipes for Holidays).

Yield: 6 servings. Nutrition (Per Serving): ~350 kcal, 15g protein, 12g fat, 45g carbs, 3g fiber, 600mg sodium.

14. Eastern European French Onion Beef Casserole

Savory beef casserole with a creamy onion dip.

Ingredients

IngredientQuantityPurpose
Ground beef1 lbProtein base
Egg noodles8 ozPasta base
French onion dip1 cupCreamy sauce
Cream of mushroom soup1 can (10.5 oz)Creamy sauce
French fried onions1 cupCrispy topping
Olive oil1 tbspCooking base
Salt1 tspFlavor enhancer
Black pepper1/2 tspSubtle spice
Parsley1 tbspGarnish

Cooking Method

Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Cook 8 oz egg noodles until al dente, then drain. In a skillet, heat 1 tbsp olive oil and cook 1 lb ground beef with 1 tsp salt and 1/2 tsp pepper for 5 minutes until browned. In a greased baking dish, mix noodles, beef, 1 cup French onion dip, 1 can cream of mushroom soup, and 1/2 cup French fried onions. Top with remaining onions and bake for 20 minutes until bubbly. Garnish with 1 tbsp parsley for an Eastern European-inspired dish (Life in the Lofthouse).

Yield: 6 servings. Nutrition (Per Serving): ~400 kcal, 20g protein, 18g fat, 35g carbs, 2g fiber, 800mg sodium.

15. Southern Italian Million Dollar Spaghetti Casserole

Decadent spaghetti with a bolognese-ricotta blend.

Ingredients

IngredientQuantityPurpose
Ground beef1 lbProtein base
Spaghetti8 ozPasta base
Marinara sauce2 cupsSauce base
Ricotta cheese1 cupCreamy layer
Mozzarella cheese1 cupMelty topping
Parmesan cheese1/2 cupNutty flavor
Olive oil1 tbspCooking base
Dried oregano1 tspItalian herb
Salt1 tspFlavor enhancer
Basil1 tbspGarnish

Cooking Method

Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Cook 8 oz spaghetti until al dente, then drain. In a skillet, heat 1 tbsp olive oil and cook 1 lb ground beef with 1 tsp salt for 5 minutes until browned. In a greased baking dish, layer half the spaghetti, 1 cup ricotta, half the beef, 1 cup marinara sauce, 1 tsp oregano, and 1/2 cup mozzarella. Repeat layers, top with 1/2 cup Parmesan, and bake for 20 minutes until bubbly. Garnish with 1 tbsp basil for a Southern Italian-inspired dish (Princess Pinky Girl).

Yield: 6 servings. Nutrition (Per Serving): ~450 kcal, 25g protein, 20g fat, 40g carbs, 3g fiber, 800mg sodium.


Cooking Tips for Pasta Casseroles

Selecting Pasta

Choose sturdy pasta shapes like rigatoni, penne, or ziti to hold up in casseroles. Fresh or pre-filled tortellini add extra flavor, as noted in our Sauce Recipes (Serious Eats).

Enhancing Flavor

Use global ingredients like paprika, oregano, or chili powder to boost flavor. Add creamy elements like ricotta or Alfredo sauce for richness.

Cooking Techniques

Cook pasta al dente to prevent mushiness, and layer ingredients evenly for consistent texture. Bake covered for moisture, then uncover for a crispy top.


Serving and Pairing Suggestions

Presentation Ideas

Serve casseroles in colorful baking dishes with fresh herbs like basil or parsley for a global aesthetic. Use rustic bowls for individual servings to evoke worldwide cuisines.

Beverage Pairings

Pair with an Italian Chianti, Eastern European herbal tea, or Mexican horchata to complement the diverse flavors, as featured in our Drinks.

Side Dishes

Serve with a Caesar salad or garlic bread for balance, and finish with our Mango Cheesecake Spring Rolls for dessert.


Video Tutorial

Master pasta casserole dishes with this inspiring video, adaptable to our global recipes for perfect results.


Frequently Asked Questions

Why Are Pasta Casseroles So Popular?

Pasta casseroles are loved for their simplicity, affordability, and ability to incorporate global flavors, making them ideal for quick, comforting meals.

Can I Use Any Pasta Shape?

Yes, sturdy shapes like rigatoni, penne, or ziti work best, but any pasta, including tortellini or spaghetti, can be used for variety.

Do I Need to Cook Pasta First?

Not always—dump-and-bake recipes like Chicken Alfredo Casserole allow uncooked pasta, but al dente pasta ensures better texture in most recipes.

Are These Recipes Suitable for Dietary Restrictions?

Many can be adapted for vegetarian or gluten-free diets using plant-based proteins or gluten-free pasta, as seen in our Vegetarian Recipes.

Which Global Pasta Casserole Will You Try First?

Italian Chicken Parmesan Mexican Beef Noodle Million Dollar Spaghetti

Vote and share your global creation on Facebook with #MangoesPalmTrees!


Conclusion

These **15 best pasta casserole recipes** from *Mangoes and Palm Trees* transform the humble pasta casserole into a global culinary celebration, from Southern Italian Chicken Parmesan Casserole to Million Dollar Spaghetti. With unique recipes drawing on worldwide traditions, these **global pasta dishes** offer easy, affordable, and comforting options for family dinners or batch cooking. Experiment with pasta shapes and global flavors, share your creations on Facebook with #MangoesPalmTrees, and explore more at our Recipes or Desserts. Discover your culinary style at our Personality Quiz Hub. Bon appétit!

We’d Love to Hear From You! Thank you for visiting Mangoes and Palm Trees! Please keep comments kind and respectful—happy commenting! 😊

Close
Your custom text © Copyright 2025. All rights reserved.
Close