17 Ways to Make a Casserole Without Beef or Chicken

These creative cookies go beyond the usual with fun mix-ins, nostalgic flavors, and seasonal twists that make them stand out. From fruit-filled bites to candy-packed dough and even an air fryer treat, each one offers something unique to try. You’ll find familiar favorites like peanut butter and chocolate, but also bold flavors like matcha, lemon meringue, and cotton candy. These are great for trying something new without straying too far from the cookie jar.

Sweet Potato and Apple Casserole

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Slices of sweet potatoes and apples layer together with brown sugar, cinnamon, and butter. As it bakes, the flavors melt into each other. The result is sweet, soft, and fragrant. A great side dish for fall or holiday tables.
Get the Recipe: Sweet Potato and Apple Casserole

Crockpot Broccoli Casserole

Broccoli, cheese, and a creamy sauce cook together in the slow cooker until tender and well-melded. Crackers or breadcrumbs on top add texture. It’s a low-effort side that works for any occasion. Use fresh or frozen broccoli depending on time.
Get the Recipe: Crockpot Broccoli Casserole

Slow Cooker Hashbrown Casserole

Frozen hashbrowns mix with sour cream, cheese, and soup, then slow cook into a soft, golden casserole. The top gets a little crusty if left uncovered near the end. It’s creamy, cheesy, and crowd-friendly. Great as a brunch or dinner side.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Hashbrown Casserole

Air Fryer Green Bean Casserole

Classic green bean casserole gets a crisp upgrade in the air fryer, with crunchy onions and tender beans baked in a creamy sauce. The air fryer keeps it light but satisfying. It cooks fast with no soggy spots. Perfect for smaller holiday meals.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Green Bean Casserole

Asparagus Casserole

Fresh or canned asparagus is baked in a light sauce with cheese, garlic, and breadcrumbs. The asparagus stays tender with just enough bite. The topping adds contrast without overpowering. It’s simple, fast, and fresh.
Get the Recipe: Asparagus Casserole

Turkey And Rice Casserole

A casserole dish filled with vegetables and cheese. — Turkey And Rice Casserole. Photo credit: One Hot Oven.

Shredded or chopped turkey mixes with cooked rice, cream soup, and vegetables into a one-pan meal. The rice soaks up the sauce and flavor from the turkey. It’s a great way to use leftovers. Bake until bubbling and golden.
Get the Recipe: Turkey And Rice Casserole

Instant Pot Tuna Noodle Casserole

Tuna, egg noodles, peas, and a creamy sauce cook together under pressure for a fast take on a retro classic. The Instant Pot keeps the noodles just right and the sauce smooth. It’s simple, familiar, and easy to scale up. Top with breadcrumbs or crackers before serving.
Get the Recipe: Instant Pot Tuna Noodle Casserole

Yellow Squash Casserole

Squash casserole being served with a wooden serving spoon. — Yellow Squash Casserole. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Thinly sliced squash bakes with cheese, eggs, and sometimes crackers or breadcrumbs for a Southern-style side. The squash softens without falling apart. A buttery topping seals it all together. A great way to use summer produce.
Get the Recipe: Yellow Squash Casserole

Low Carb Tuna Casserole

This version skips the noodles and uses zucchini, cauliflower rice, or another substitute to keep carbs low. The flavor stays creamy and familiar thanks to the tuna and cheese. It’s filling without being heavy. Bake until bubbly and golden on top.
Get the Recipe: Low Carb Tuna Casserole

Slow Cooker Green Bean Casserole

This version lets green beans, mushroom soup, and fried onions slow cook until everything is warm and well-blended. The topping gets added at the end to keep it crisp. It’s hands-off and reliable. Ideal for potlucks or busy holiday prep.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Green Bean Casserole

Smoked Green Bean Casserole

This twist on the classic uses a smoker to infuse the dish with deep flavor while keeping the creamy texture. The topping turns golden with a slight crisp. The smoky notes play perfectly with the richness. Serve alongside grilled meats or roasts.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Green Bean Casserole

Slow Cooker Sausage Potato Casserole

A white plate with a casserole dish, including ground meat, potatoes, and melted cheese, garnished with a parsley sprig. — Slow Cooker Sausage Potato Casserole. Photo credit: Mama’s on a Budget .

Sliced sausage and potatoes slow cook in a creamy sauce with onions and cheese until soft and bubbling. The potatoes absorb the richness and stay tender. It’s a set-and-forget meal with big payoff. Add paprika or herbs for a flavor boost.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Sausage Potato Casserole

Hairy Biker Casserole

A plate with grilled sausages in tomato-onion sauce, accompanied by a slice of bread. — Hairy Biker Casserole. Photo credit: Mama’s on a Budget .

This hearty dish from the UK combines sausages, beans, and vegetables in a rich gravy. It’s a no-fuss comfort food with loads of savory depth. Often slow-cooked for full flavor, it’s thick, filling, and made to satisfy. Great with crusty bread.
Get the Recipe: Hairy Biker Casserole

Wild Rice Casserole

A bowl of pasta with lemon slices and parmesan cheese. — Wild Rice Casserole. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Cooked wild rice combines with vegetables, broth, and sometimes meat or mushrooms for an earthy, hearty bake. The grains hold up well to baking and bring a nutty flavor. It’s satisfying without being heavy. Great as a vegetarian main or holiday side.
Get the Recipe: Wild Rice Casserole

Strawberry Casserole

Plate of strawberry cobbler with a dollop of whipped cream on a checkered napkin, fork nearby, and a bowl of strawberries in the background. — Strawberry Casserole. Photo credit: Mama’s on a Budget .

Fresh or frozen strawberries bake with a biscuit or cake-style topping, creating a warm, scoopable dessert. The fruit turns jammy and sweet while the top stays crisp. It’s part cobbler, part casserole. Serve with whipped cream or ice cream.
Get the Recipe: Strawberry Casserole

Spaghetti Casserole

A red ceramic dish filled with cheesy baked pasta and meat sauce, with a fork lifting a serving; a red teapot is in the background. — Spaghetti Casserole. Photo credit: Ginger Casa.

Cooked spaghetti is mixed with meat sauce, layered with cheese, and baked until set and slightly crisp around the edges. It holds together like lasagna but with a spaghetti texture. It’s hearty, cheesy, and feeds a crowd. Slice and serve like a pasta pie.
Get the Recipe: Spaghetti Casserole