Wholesome casseroles make weeknights easier by packing veggies, lean protein, and whole-grain starches into a single, comforting dish. The 60 ideas below rely on simple pantry staples, plenty of fresh produce, and lighter cooking methods—so you can serve satisfying family dinners without relying on canned soups or mountains of cheese. Each recipe description outlines what makes it “clean,” along with handy tips for prep-ahead success.
Contents
- 1. Turkey & Sweet Potato Quinoa Bake
- 2. Lemon-Herb Salmon & Brown Rice Casserole
- 3. Chicken, Broccoli & Cauliflower “Rice” Bake
- 4. Tex-Mex Black Bean & Farro Casserole
- 5. Greek Chickpea & Spinach Orzo Bake
- 6. Butternut Squash & Turkey Sausage Breakfast Casserole
- 7. Cauliflower, Kale & Lentil Mornay
- 8. Tuna & White Bean Whole-Grain Pasta Bake
- 9. Moroccan Sweet Potato, Chickpea & Millet Bake
- 10. Ginger-Garlic Shrimp & Vegetable Brown Rice Bake
- 11. Roasted Ratatouille Quinoa Casserole
- 12. Spinach, Artichoke & Wild Rice Bake
- 13. Pesto Chicken & Zucchini Noodle Bake
- 14. Barley, Mushroom & Thyme Gratin
- 15. Buffalo Cauliflower & Ground Chicken Bake
- 16. Portuguese Cod, Potato & Kale Casserole
- 17. Curried Lentil & Tomato Bake
- 18. Eggplant, Turkey & Brown Rice Parmesan
- 19. Thai Peanut Chicken & Veggie Bake
- 20. Harvest Apple, Turkey & Wild Rice Casserole
- 21. Calabrian Chili & White Fish Farro Bake
- 22. Veggie-Loaded Turkey Enchilada Casserole
- 23. Broccoli, Quinoa & Sun-Dried Tomato Bake
- 24. Caribbean Jerk Chicken & Plantain Casserole
- 25. Cauliflower Taco “Rice” Bake
- 26. Herbed Cod & Sweet Corn Polenta Bake
- 27. Mushroom, Kale & Quinoa Breakfast Squares
- 28. Pumpkin, Black Bean & Brown Rice Bake
- 29. Italian Turkey, Zucchini & Farro Bake
- 30. Ginger-Miso Tofu & Brown Rice Casserole
- 31. Rosemary Chicken, White Bean & Sweet Potato Bake
- 32. Salsa Verde Turkey & Brown Rice Bake
- 33. Mediterranean Eggplant, Chickpea & Bulgur Bake
- 34. Orange-Ginger Turkey & Cauliflower Rice Bake
- 35. Pesto Shrimp & Whole-Wheat Orzo Casserole
- 36. Southwest Turkey, Quinoa & Kale Casserole
- 37. Miso-Sesame Salmon & Broccoli Quinoa Bake
- 38. Herbed Chickpea, Tomato & Millet Gratin
- 39. Cauliflower, Pea & Tuna Curry Bake
- 40. Tomato-Basil Turkey & Spaghetti Squash Bake
- 41. Sundried Tomato & Spinach Chicken Quinoa Bake
- 42. Cuban-Inspired Black Bean, Plantain & Brown Rice Bake
- 43. Carrot, Ginger & Lentil Breakfast Bake
- 44. Tuscan White Bean & Kale Polenta Bake
- 45. Za’atar Turkey, Chickpea & Bulgur Bake
- 46. Apple, Chicken & Quinoa Stuffing Bake
- 47. Curry Cauliflower & Green Pea Quinoa Bake
- 48. Turkey Meatball & Spaghetti Squash Marinara Bake
- 49. Soy-Ginger Salmon & Brown Rice Casserole
- 50. Mediterranean Turkey, Zoodle & Tomato Bake
- 51. Spinach, Mushroom & Feta Brown Rice Bake
- 52. Greek Lemon Chicken & Brown Rice Bake
- 53. Chipotle Sweet Potato & Black Bean Bake
- 54. Egg White, Spinach & Quinoa Breakfast Bake
- 55. Italian Sausage, Kale & Spaghetti Squash Bake
- 56. Sage Turkey, Quinoa & Cranberry Bake
- 57. Spicy Peanut Tofu & Cauliflower Rice Bake
- 58. Herbed Salmon, Asparagus & Quinoa Bake
- 59. Caramelized Onion, Kale & Sweet Potato Egg Bake
- 60. Chimichurri Chicken & Brown Rice Bake
1. Turkey & Sweet Potato Quinoa Bake

Lean ground turkey, nutty red quinoa, and roasted sweet potato cubes form a complete protein-packed meal. Baby spinach wilts into the mix during the final ten minutes, adding color and iron. Season gently with smoked paprika and garlic, then finish under the broiler for a golden finish.
2. Lemon-Herb Salmon & Brown Rice Casserole

This light casserole combines omega-3 rich salmon with fiber-filled brown rice and crisp asparagus. A quick marinade of olive oil, lemon zest, and dill keeps the fish moist as everything bakes together. Serve with extra lemon wedges for a bright hit of acidity.
3. Chicken, Broccoli & Cauliflower “Rice” Bake

Swapping standard rice for finely chopped cauliflower lowers carbs without sacrificing texture. Poached chicken breast adds lean protein while broccoli lends crunch and vitamin C. A sprinkle of almond flour mixed with nutritional yeast gives a nutty crust minus the dairy overload.
4. Tex-Mex Black Bean & Farro Casserole

Hearty farro stands in for rice, bringing chewy texture and extra fiber. Black beans and corn give classic Southwest flavor alongside cumin, chili powder, and fresh cilantro. Add avocado after baking so its creamy bite stays cool against the warm grains.
5. Greek Chickpea & Spinach Orzo Bake

Whole-wheat orzo bakes in a simple broth laced with oregano and garlic. Protein-rich chickpeas and baby spinach turn the mixture into a balanced entrée. A scattering of feta adds just enough saltiness while keeping total cheese moderate.
6. Butternut Squash & Turkey Sausage Breakfast Casserole

Perfect for meal prep, this breakfast bake pairs naturally sweet squash with savory turkey sausage. Whisked eggs bind everything together, eliminating the need for heavy cream. Make it Sunday night, then reheat squares for quick weekday breakfasts.
7. Cauliflower, Kale & Lentil Mornay

Cooked lentils supply plant-based protein while cauliflower and kale add bulk and antioxidants. A silky sauce made from blended cashews mimics classic Mornay without dairy. Nutmeg and white pepper keep flavors traditional yet clean.
8. Tuna & White Bean Whole-Grain Pasta Bake

Sustainably caught canned tuna pairs with fiber-rich cannellini beans for double protein power. Whole-grain pasta soaks up a tomato-based sauce accented with basil and capers. A modest sprinkle of whole-wheat breadcrumbs adds crunch instead of a heavy cheese blanket.
9. Moroccan Sweet Potato, Chickpea & Millet Bake

Millet cooks right in the baking dish, absorbing fragrant vegetable broth spiced with cumin and coriander. Sweet potatoes and chickpeas create a satisfying base, while raisins add pockets of natural sweetness. Finish with chopped almonds and fresh mint for texture and lift.
10. Ginger-Garlic Shrimp & Vegetable Brown Rice Bake

Quick-marinated shrimp bake atop partially cooked brown rice, infusing it with their savory juices. Snap peas and carrot ribbons stay tender-crisp thanks to a short finish in the hot oven. A drizzle of toasted sesame oil before serving deepens flavor without excess sodium.
11. Roasted Ratatouille Quinoa Casserole

Classic ratatouille vegetables roast until caramelized, then nestle into protein-rich quinoa. The grain absorbs tomato juices, eliminating the need for extra sauce. Fresh basil brightens the dish just before it reaches the table.
12. Spinach, Artichoke & Wild Rice Bake

Nutty wild rice provides hearty chew and a spectrum of minerals. Artichoke hearts and baby spinach fold into a dairy-free béchamel thickened with oat flour. A squeeze of lemon over each plate balances the earthy flavors.
13. Pesto Chicken & Zucchini Noodle Bake

Swapping traditional pasta for zucchini keeps carbs modest while adding vibrant color. Homemade basil pesto, made with olive oil and walnuts, coats everything lightly. Cherry tomatoes burst during baking, releasing sweet juices into the mix.
14. Barley, Mushroom & Thyme Gratin

Pearl barley bakes up creamy yet retains bite, offering more fiber than white rice. Earthy mushrooms and fresh thyme supply umami depth. An oat and flaxseed crust replaces traditional breadcrumbs for extra nutrition.
15. Buffalo Cauliflower & Ground Chicken Bake

This lighter spin on wings turns familiar flavors into a weeknight dinner. Lean ground chicken and cauliflower roast together, absorbing tangy hot sauce. Serve with a drizzle of plain Greek yogurt instead of ranch for a cool finish.
16. Portuguese Cod, Potato & Kale Casserole

Lightly salted cod fillets bake atop layers of thin potatoes, releasing savory juices into the vegetables. Kale wilts gently, adding vitamins A and K. A handful of olives delivers classic Portuguese flair without excessive oil.
17. Curried Lentil & Tomato Bake

Red lentils cook quickly in the oven, becoming soft and saucy without pre-boiling. Mild curry powder, ginger, and garlic create warmth that even kids enjoy. Frozen peas stirred in at the end keep their bright color intact.
18. Eggplant, Turkey & Brown Rice Parmesan

Grilled eggplant eliminates excess oil while adding smoky flavor. Lean ground turkey marinara sits atop brown rice for balanced macros. A light shower of Parmesan gives classic appeal without weighing things down.
19. Thai Peanut Chicken & Veggie Bake

A homemade sauce of natural peanut butter, lime juice, and coconut aminos keeps sodium low. Chicken cubes and mixed vegetables bake with partially cooked brown rice to soak up flavor. Finish with crushed roasted peanuts for extra crunch.
20. Harvest Apple, Turkey & Wild Rice Casserole

Diced apples lend natural sweetness to herb-roasted turkey and nutty wild rice. Celery and onion create classic stuffing vibes without bread. Bake until flavors meld, then sprinkle with toasted pecans before serving.
21. Calabrian Chili & White Fish Farro Bake

Mild white fish such as cod steams directly on a bed of tomato-simmered farro. Calabrian chili adds gentle heat without overwhelming the palate. Spinach wilts during the final five minutes, delivering iron and color.
22. Veggie-Loaded Turkey Enchilada Casserole

Whole-corn tortillas stand in for traditional rolled enchiladas, saving assembly time. Extra vegetables stretch lean turkey while boosting vitamin intake. A modest sprinkle of part-skim cheese melts into the top layer without overwhelming the dish.
23. Broccoli, Quinoa & Sun-Dried Tomato Bake

Protein-rich quinoa cooks in vegetable broth right in the oven. Sun-dried tomatoes deliver savory notes and depth, complementing crisp broccoli. Pine nuts sprinkled on top provide healthy fats and subtle crunch.
24. Caribbean Jerk Chicken & Plantain Casserole

Sweet ripe plantains balance smoky, spice-rubbed chicken thighs. Black beans add fiber and staying power. Lime juice splashed over the casserole after baking brightens every bite.
25. Cauliflower Taco “Rice” Bake

Taco night gets a lighter twist by swapping cauliflower rice for grains. Ground turkey cooks with homemade seasoning to keep sodium controlled. Serve with fresh pico de gallo and avocado slices instead of heavy cheese.
26. Herbed Cod & Sweet Corn Polenta Bake

Creamy polenta made from puréed sweet corn offers whole-food creaminess. Cod fillets bake gently on top, soaking up basil and oregano aromas. The result is light yet deeply satisfying.
27. Mushroom, Kale & Quinoa Breakfast Squares

Pre-cooked quinoa adds staying power to these savory breakfast squares. Mushrooms bring umami depth while kale folds in nutrient-dense greens. Portion, refrigerate, and warm for quick protein-rich mornings.
28. Pumpkin, Black Bean & Brown Rice Bake

Silky pumpkin purée replaces heavy cream, giving a velvety texture full of beta-carotene. Black beans and brown rice create a complete protein for plant-based diners. Crunchy pepitas on top echo the pumpkin flavor.
29. Italian Turkey, Zucchini & Farro Bake

Bite-sized turkey meatballs nest in a bed of herb-simmered farro. Zucchini rounds absorb sauce while keeping the dish moist. A dusting of grated Pecorino Romano provides sharpness without excess fat.
30. Ginger-Miso Tofu & Brown Rice Casserole

High-protein tofu soaks up a marinade of white miso, fresh ginger, and rice vinegar. Brown rice bakes underneath, capturing extra sauce. Garnish with sesame seeds for healthy fats and visual appeal.
31. Rosemary Chicken, White Bean & Sweet Potato Bake

Bone-in thighs stay juicy while sweet potatoes turn soft and caramelized. White beans fortify the dish with fiber and extra protein. One pan delivers balanced macros and big flavor thanks to hearty rosemary.
32. Salsa Verde Turkey & Brown Rice Bake

Jarred salsa verde simplifies prep while keeping ingredients clean and short. Shredded turkey and brown rice make the casserole hearty yet lean. Roasted poblano strips add mild heat and smokiness.
33. Mediterranean Eggplant, Chickpea & Bulgur Bake

Quick-cooking bulgur brings whole-grain goodness without long oven times. Eggplant and chickpeas soak up tomato, garlic, and oregano flavors. Kalamata olives punched in at the end keep salt levels controlled yet satisfying.
34. Orange-Ginger Turkey & Cauliflower Rice Bake

Fresh orange zest and juice brighten lean turkey, reducing the need for added sugar. Edamame provides plant protein and springy texture. Cauliflower rice absorbs every drop of the sweet-savory glaze.
35. Pesto Shrimp & Whole-Wheat Orzo Casserole

Shrimp cooks fast, keeping weeknight prep under 30 minutes. Whole-wheat orzo supplies complex carbs and a familiar pasta feel. Spinach wilts into the pesto-kissed mix for extra antioxidants.
36. Southwest Turkey, Quinoa & Kale Casserole

Fire-roasted tomatoes add smoky depth without extra spice. Red quinoa and black beans create a complete amino acid profile. Kale provides hearty greens that hold up well to baking temperatures.
37. Miso-Sesame Salmon & Broccoli Quinoa Bake

Protein-rich quinoa cooks beneath salmon fillets marinated in white miso and sesame oil. Broccoli retains crunch and bright color, rounding out the meal nutritionally. Garnish with toasted sesame seeds for added flavor.
38. Herbed Chickpea, Tomato & Millet Gratin

Millet offers a mild, corn-like flavor that pairs well with juicy tomatoes. Chickpeas bring protein and create a hearty texture. A sprinkle of chopped almonds forms a golden crust while adding healthy fats.
39. Cauliflower, Pea & Tuna Curry Bake

Light coconut milk keeps saturated fat low yet offers a creamy curry base. Canned tuna contributes lean protein and omega-3s. Cauliflower and peas soak up spices like turmeric and coriander for a vibrant flavor profile.
40. Tomato-Basil Turkey & Spaghetti Squash Bake

Spaghetti squash mimics noodles while delivering extra vitamins A and C. Lean turkey simmered in crushed tomatoes supplies robust flavor. A dusting of part-skim mozzarella is optional for those who want a lightly cheesy finish.
41. Sundried Tomato & Spinach Chicken Quinoa Bake

Goat cheese lends tangy richness but in smaller amounts than harder cheeses. Quinoa absorbs flavorful oil from sun-dried tomatoes, eliminating extra fat. Spinach folds in subtle earthy notes and boosts iron.
42. Cuban-Inspired Black Bean, Plantain & Brown Rice Bake

Brown rice cooks with a splash of orange juice and cumin for iconic Cuban flavor. Black beans contribute protein and fiber while plantains caramelize on top. Finish with fresh cilantro and lime zest to brighten rich flavors.
43. Carrot, Ginger & Lentil Breakfast Bake

Red lentils cook into a soft base that binds naturally with eggs—no cheese needed. Carrots add subtle sweetness and beta-carotene. Ginger spices things up and helps wake up sleepy taste buds.
44. Tuscan White Bean & Kale Polenta Bake

Creamy stove-top polenta sets in the oven, making scooping easy. White beans fold in for protein, while kale becomes tender yet vibrant. Roasted tomatoes burst, creating their own light sauce.
45. Za’atar Turkey, Chickpea & Bulgur Bake

Za’atar seasoning delivers Middle Eastern fragrance with minimal effort. Bulgur cooks quickly, marrying lean turkey and hearty chickpeas. A squeeze of lemon at serving time heightens herbal notes.
46. Apple, Chicken & Quinoa Stuffing Bake

This stuffing-style bake ditches bread cubes in favor of fluffy quinoa. Apples lend sweetness that balances savory sage and celery. Serve as a light holiday side or a standalone supper.
47. Curry Cauliflower & Green Pea Quinoa Bake

A gentle curry powder tints quinoa golden while boosting antioxidant levels. Roasted cauliflower adds satisfying bulk and mild sweetness. Frozen peas stirred in last minute ensure they remain pop-fresh.
48. Turkey Meatball & Spaghetti Squash Marinara Bake

Homemade turkey meatballs bake right alongside squash strands, cutting dish count. Marinara sauce keeps everything moist without added oils. Parmesan is optional, letting you control dairy intake.
49. Soy-Ginger Salmon & Brown Rice Casserole

Marinate salmon briefly in soy sauce, ginger, and a drop of honey for caramelized edges. Brown rice and bok choy cook underneath, soaking up savory juices. Finish with sliced scallions for crunch and freshness.
50. Mediterranean Turkey, Zoodle & Tomato Bake

Zucchini noodles shorten cook time and reduce carbs, yet still feel pasta-like. Ground turkey and olives lend satiety and umami. A touch of oregano and garlic ties it all together.
51. Spinach, Mushroom & Feta Brown Rice Bake

Baby spinach wilts into earthy mushrooms while brown rice provides slow-release energy. Feta’s punchy saltiness means you need only a small amount. Leftovers make a hearty lunch the next day.
52. Greek Lemon Chicken & Brown Rice Bake

Brown rice cooks in lemony chicken broth, imparting zesty flavor. Tender chicken breasts stay juicy under a layer of sliced lemons and herbs. Artichokes and olives channel classic Greek cuisine with minimal added fat.
53. Chipotle Sweet Potato & Black Bean Bake

Chipotle peppers in adobo give smoky depth and gentle heat. Sweet potatoes roast soft, pairing perfectly with hearty black beans. Add diced avocado after baking for creamy contrast.
54. Egg White, Spinach & Quinoa Breakfast Bake

Egg whites keep calories in check while quinoa guarantees a filling meal. Bell peppers add vitamin C and a pop of color. Prepare on Sunday for grab-and-go protein all week.
55. Italian Sausage, Kale & Spaghetti Squash Bake

Lean turkey sausage seasons the entire dish without extra salt. Kale maintains bite and deep green hue, even after baking. Spaghetti squash drinks in garlicky tomato sauce for comforting flavor.
56. Sage Turkey, Quinoa & Cranberry Bake

Savory sage and sweet cranberries echo holiday flavors without heavy bread. Quinoa holds moisture while adding protein. Great for using up leftover turkey but works equally well with freshly browned ground turkey.
57. Spicy Peanut Tofu & Cauliflower Rice Bake

Tofu cubes crisp in the oven before being tossed with a homemade peanut-lime sauce. Cauliflower rice soaks up extra dressing, keeping the dish low-carb. Snap peas added at the end stay bright and crunchy.
58. Herbed Salmon, Asparagus & Quinoa Bake

Lemon and dill highlight salmon’s natural richness without butter. Quinoa steams beneath, infused with fish juices and vegetable broth. Asparagus bakes to tender-crisp perfection alongside.
59. Caramelized Onion, Kale & Sweet Potato Egg Bake

Slow-cooked onions add deep sweetness that balances earthy kale. Sweet potatoes turn creamy in the egg custard, replacing the need for cheese. Slice into portions for a nutrient-packed start to busy days.
60. Chimichurri Chicken & Brown Rice Bake

Homemade chimichurri of parsley, garlic, and olive oil flavors everything as it bakes. Brown rice locks in juices from the chicken, creating a built-in side. Leftovers taste even better as the herbs continue to mingle.
Nathaniel Lee is an avid cook, drawing on his decades of home cooking and fine dining experience. He is a contributing chef at Mashed, and his recipes and contributions have been featured in Tasting Table, Edible Arrangements, Insanely Good Recipes, and The Daily Meal.
