15 Hearty Italian Casserole Recipes to Delight Your Family

Italian cuisine is renowned for its comforting flavors, and casseroles are a perfect example of this delicious tradition.

Hearty layers of vegetables, pasta, meats, and cheeses are baked to perfection, creating a one-dish meal that satisfies the whole family.

Whether you prefer a vegetarian option, a cheesy pasta bake, or a meaty lasagna-style casserole, Italian casseroles combine simplicity with rich, layered flavors.

In this article, we explore 15 Italian casserole recipes that are easy to prepare, flavorful, and perfect for any occasion.

15 Hearty Italian Casserole Recipes to Delight Your Family

Italian casseroles are the ultimate comfort food, combining rich flavors, hearty ingredients, and easy preparation.

From classic lasagna to innovative vegetable and seafood bakes, these 15 Italian casserole recipes offer options for every palate and occasion.

They are perfect for weeknight dinners, family gatherings, or special celebrations.

With simple steps and layers of delicious ingredients, you can bring the warmth and taste of Italy straight to your table.

Classic Italian Lasagna

This classic Italian lasagna is a comforting, layered casserole with rich flavors.

Tender pasta sheets alternate with a savory meat sauce, creamy ricotta, and melted mozzarella.

The combination of tomato, cheese, and herbs creates a hearty, flavorful meal.

Baked to golden perfection, this dish fills your kitchen with irresistible aromas.

It is perfect for family dinners or special gatherings, offering timeless Italian comfort.

Ingredients:

• 12 lasagna noodles.
• 1 pound ground beef.
• 1 small onion, finely chopped.
• 2 cloves garlic, minced.
• 4 cups marinara sauce.
• 2 cups ricotta cheese.
• 1 large egg.
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese.
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese.
• 1 teaspoon dried basil.
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano.
• Salt and pepper to taste.

Instructions:

• Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
• Cook lasagna noodles according to package instructions and drain.
• In a skillet, sauté onion and garlic until translucent.
• Add ground beef, season with salt, pepper, basil, and oregano, and cook until browned.
• Stir in marinara sauce and simmer for 5 minutes.
• In a bowl, mix ricotta cheese with egg until smooth.
• Spread a thin layer of meat sauce in a 9×13-inch baking dish.
• Layer noodles, ricotta mixture, meat sauce, and mozzarella.
• Repeat layers until all ingredients are used, finishing with sauce and mozzarella.
• Sprinkle Parmesan on top and cover with foil.
• Bake for 25 minutes, remove foil, and bake another 20 minutes until bubbly and golden.

This lasagna is rich, cheesy, and full of authentic Italian flavor.

The layers of pasta and meat sauce create a satisfying texture.

It is perfect for family meals or festive occasions.

Each slice is comforting, hearty, and indulgent.

The dish is sure to become a timeless favorite

Eggplant Parmesan Casserole

This eggplant Parmesan casserole features tender, breaded eggplant baked with tomato sauce and cheese.

It offers a satisfying vegetarian alternative to traditional meat casseroles.

Layers of eggplant, marinara, and mozzarella create a rich, flavorful texture.

Fresh basil and Parmesan enhance the aroma and depth of flavor.

Baked until golden and bubbly, it is perfect for weeknight dinners or festive gatherings.

Ingredients:

• 2 large eggplants, sliced into ½-inch rounds.
• 2 cups marinara sauce.
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese.
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese.
• 1 cup Italian-style breadcrumbs.
• 2 eggs, beaten.
• ¼ cup olive oil.
• Salt and pepper to taste.

Instructions:

• Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
• Salt eggplant slices and let sit for 30 minutes to remove excess moisture.
• Rinse and pat dry.
• Dip each slice into beaten egg, then coat with breadcrumbs.
• Heat olive oil in a skillet and lightly fry eggplant until golden.
• Spread a thin layer of marinara sauce in a 9×13-inch baking dish.
• Layer fried eggplant slices, sauce, and mozzarella.
• Repeat layers until all ingredients are used.
• Top with Parmesan cheese and cover with foil.
• Bake for 25 minutes, remove foil, and bake another 15 minutes until bubbly.

The casserole is crispy on top yet tender inside.

Eggplant, cheese, and tomato sauce combine for a rich, comforting flavor.

It is an impressive vegetarian dish suitable for dinner parties.

The aroma is inviting and the flavor authentic.

Every bite is cheesy, savory, and satisfying.

Italian Sausage and Potato Casserole

This Italian sausage and potato casserole is hearty, flavorful, and easy to prepare.

Tender roasted potatoes combine with spicy sausage, peppers, and onions.

Cheese and herbs enhance the flavor and create a golden, melted topping.

Baked until bubbling, it is perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings.

It offers a savory, filling one-dish meal that everyone will enjoy.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound Italian sausage, sliced.
• 4 large potatoes, peeled and diced.
• 1 red bell pepper, chopped.
• 1 yellow bell pepper, chopped.
• 1 medium onion, chopped.
• 2 cloves garlic, minced.
• 1 teaspoon dried rosemary.
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano.
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese.
• 2 tablespoons olive oil.
• Salt and pepper to taste.

Instructions:

• Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
• Toss potatoes with olive oil, rosemary, oregano, salt, and pepper.
• Roast potatoes for 20 minutes until slightly tender.
• In a skillet, sauté sausage, onions, garlic, and bell peppers until sausage is cooked through.
• Combine roasted potatoes with sausage mixture in a 9×13-inch baking dish.
• Sprinkle mozzarella evenly over the top.
• Bake for 20-25 minutes until cheese is melted and golden.

The combination of spicy sausage and tender potatoes is savory and satisfying.

Bell peppers and onions add sweetness and depth.

Cheese melts perfectly, creating a bubbly, golden topping.

It is a simple, hearty casserole ideal for family meals.

Each bite is flavorful, cheesy, and comforting.

Zucchini and Ricotta Bake

This zucchini and ricotta bake is a light, creamy Italian casserole.

Tender zucchini slices are layered with ricotta, Parmesan, and marinara sauce.

The flavors meld together beautifully when baked to golden perfection.

Fresh herbs add a fragrant aroma and depth.

It is a delicious vegetarian option that is both satisfying and healthy.

Ingredients:

• 4 medium zucchinis, sliced into thin rounds.
• 2 cups ricotta cheese.
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese.
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese.
• 2 cups marinara sauce.
• 1 teaspoon dried basil.
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano.
• Salt and pepper to taste.

Instructions:

• Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
• Spread a thin layer of marinara sauce in a 9×13-inch baking dish.
• Layer zucchini slices, ricotta mixture, sauce, and mozzarella.
• Repeat layers until all ingredients are used, finishing with mozzarella and Parmesan.
• Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes.
• Remove foil and bake another 15 minutes until golden and bubbly.

The creamy ricotta and tender zucchini create a rich texture.

Tomato sauce and herbs enhance flavor and aroma.

It is a visually appealing and healthy vegetarian dish.

Perfect for family dinners or potlucks.

Each bite is creamy, cheesy, and comforting.

Chicken Alfredo Casserole

This chicken Alfredo casserole combines tender pasta, succulent chicken, and creamy Alfredo sauce.

Mozzarella and Parmesan create a golden, bubbling topping.

The dish is rich, indulgent, and perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions.

Herbs and garlic enhance the savory flavor.

It is a comforting, hearty casserole that satisfies both adults and children alike.

Ingredients:

• 12 ounces penne pasta, cooked and drained.
• 2 cups cooked chicken, diced.
• 2 cups Alfredo sauce.
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese.
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese.
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder.
• ½ teaspoon dried basil.
• ½ teaspoon dried oregano.
• Salt and pepper to taste.

Instructions:

• Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
• In a large bowl, mix cooked pasta, chicken, Alfredo sauce, garlic powder, basil, oregano, salt, and pepper.
• Transfer mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish.
• Sprinkle mozzarella and Parmesan evenly on top.
• Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes.
• Remove foil and bake an additional 10-15 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbly.

The creamy Alfredo sauce coats pasta and chicken perfectly.

Cheese on top creates a golden, savory crust.

This casserole is hearty, flavorful, and easy to prepare.

It is perfect for comforting family dinners or special occasions.

Every bite is creamy, cheesy, and satisfying.

Spinach and Mushroom Lasagna

This spinach and mushroom lasagna is a vegetarian delight with layers of flavor.

Tender pasta sheets are layered with sautéed mushrooms, fresh spinach, ricotta, and mozzarella.

A rich tomato sauce binds the layers, creating a hearty and satisfying casserole.

The combination of earthy mushrooms, fresh greens, and creamy cheeses is irresistible.

Baked to golden perfection, it is ideal for family dinners or festive gatherings.

Ingredients:

• 12 lasagna noodles.
• 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped.
• 2 cups sliced mushrooms.
• 2 cups ricotta cheese.
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese.
• 4 cups marinara sauce.
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese.
• 1 teaspoon dried basil.
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano.
• 2 cloves garlic, minced.
• 1 tablespoon olive oil.
• Salt and pepper to taste.

Instructions:

• Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
• Sauté mushrooms and garlic in olive oil until tender.
• Add spinach and cook until wilted.
• Cook lasagna noodles according to package instructions and drain.
• Spread a thin layer of marinara sauce in a 9×13-inch baking dish.
• Layer noodles, ricotta, mushroom-spinach mixture, sauce, and mozzarella.
• Repeat layers, finishing with sauce and mozzarella.
• Sprinkle Parmesan on top and cover with foil.
• Bake for 25 minutes, remove foil, and bake another 20 minutes until golden and bubbly.

The combination of mushrooms, spinach, and ricotta is earthy and rich.

Cheese melts perfectly, creating a creamy, savory texture.

It is a comforting and visually appealing vegetarian casserole.

Ideal for family meals or dinner parties.

Each slice delivers layers of flavor and a satisfying bite.

Italian Meatball Casserole

This Italian meatball casserole is hearty, flavorful, and full of Italian tradition.

Juicy meatballs are baked in marinara sauce and layered with pasta and cheese.

Mozzarella and Parmesan create a bubbling, golden crust.

The dish is perfect for family dinners, celebrations, or casual gatherings.

It is satisfying, filling, and packed with classic Italian flavors.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound ground beef.
• ½ cup breadcrumbs.
• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese.
• 1 large egg.
• 2 cups marinara sauce.
• 8 ounces penne pasta, cooked.
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese.
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano.
• 1 teaspoon dried basil.
• Salt and pepper to taste.
• 1 tablespoon olive oil.

Instructions:

• Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
• Mix ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan, egg, oregano, salt, and pepper.
• Form mixture into small meatballs.
• Heat olive oil in a skillet and brown meatballs slightly.
• Spread a thin layer of marinara sauce in a 9×13-inch baking dish.
• Layer cooked pasta, meatballs, sauce, and mozzarella.
• Repeat layers until all ingredients are used.
• Sprinkle additional Parmesan on top and cover with foil.
• Bake for 25 minutes, remove foil, and bake another 15 minutes until bubbly.

Juicy meatballs combined with marinara sauce create a rich, comforting flavor.

Pasta absorbs the sauce, adding texture and heartiness.

Cheese on top melts into a golden, gooey layer.

It is a classic Italian favorite for family dinners.

Every bite is savory, cheesy, and satisfying.

Pasta Primavera Bake

This pasta primavera bake is a colorful, vegetable-filled Italian casserole.

Seasonal vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, and carrots are layered with pasta and creamy cheese sauce.

Fresh herbs and Parmesan enhance the flavor and aroma.

Baked to bubbly perfection, it is healthy, hearty, and visually appealing.

It is perfect for weeknight dinners or potlucks, offering a fresh, satisfying meal.

Ingredients:

• 12 ounces penne pasta, cooked.
• 1 cup zucchini, diced.
• 1 cup red bell pepper, diced.
• 1 cup carrots, sliced.
• 1 cup broccoli florets.
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese.
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese.
• 2 cups Alfredo sauce.
• 1 teaspoon dried basil.
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder.
• Salt and pepper to taste.

Instructions:

• Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
• Steam or sauté vegetables until slightly tender.
• Mix cooked pasta, vegetables, Alfredo sauce, basil, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
• Transfer mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish.
• Sprinkle mozzarella and Parmesan evenly on top.
• Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes.
• Remove foil and bake an additional 10-15 minutes until cheese is melted and golden.

Fresh vegetables combined with creamy sauce make this casserole light yet satisfying.

Cheese melts to create a rich, savory topping.

It is visually vibrant and packed with flavor.

Perfect for family dinners or entertaining guests.

Every bite offers a creamy, cheesy, and vegetable-rich experience.

Tortellini Bake

This tortellini bake is a cheesy, comforting Italian casserole ideal for pasta lovers.

Cheese-filled tortellini is combined with marinara sauce and layered with mozzarella.

The baked casserole creates a bubbling, golden dish full of flavor.

It is perfect for weeknight dinners, family gatherings, or potlucks.

The combination of tender pasta, rich sauce, and melted cheese is irresistible.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound cheese tortellini, cooked.
• 2 cups marinara sauce.
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese.
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese.
• 1 teaspoon dried basil.
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano.
• Salt and pepper to taste.

Instructions:

• Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
• Toss cooked tortellini with marinara sauce, basil, oregano, salt, and pepper.
• Transfer to a 9×13-inch baking dish.
• Sprinkle mozzarella and Parmesan evenly on top.
• Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes.
• Remove foil and bake an additional 10 minutes until cheese is melted and golden.

Cheese-filled tortellini combined with marinara sauce creates a comforting, hearty flavor.

Mozzarella melts to a golden, gooey finish.

It is easy to prepare and perfect for busy weeknights.

Family-friendly and crowd-pleasing, it is a satisfying Italian casserole.

Each bite is cheesy, flavorful, and delightful.

Caprese Chicken Casserole

This Caprese chicken casserole is inspired by the classic Italian salad.

Juicy chicken breasts are layered with fresh tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil.

A light tomato sauce binds the ingredients together.

Baked until golden and bubbly, it is both elegant and flavorful.

It is perfect for dinner parties or a healthy, satisfying weeknight meal.

Ingredients:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts.
• 2 cups marinara sauce.
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese.
• 2 large tomatoes, sliced.
• ½ cup fresh basil leaves.
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese.
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder.
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano.
• Salt and pepper to taste.

Instructions:

• Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
• Season chicken breasts with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and oregano.
• Spread a thin layer of marinara sauce in a 9×13-inch baking dish.
• Place chicken breasts in the dish and cover with marinara sauce.
• Layer tomato slices, mozzarella, and fresh basil over chicken.
• Sprinkle Parmesan on top.
• Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes.
• Remove foil and bake an additional 15 minutes until cheese is melted and golden.

Juicy chicken combined with fresh tomatoes and melted cheese is flavorful and satisfying.

Basil adds a fragrant, fresh note to the casserole.

It is visually appealing and perfect for family meals.

Every bite is creamy, savory, and distinctly Italian.

This dish is elegant, delicious, and comforting.

Italian Sausage and Peppers Casserole

This Italian sausage and peppers casserole is a hearty, flavorful one-dish meal.

Spicy Italian sausage is baked with colorful bell peppers, onions, and tomato sauce.

The casserole is layered with melted mozzarella and Parmesan cheese for richness.

Fresh herbs enhance the aroma and depth of flavor.

It is perfect for family dinners, casual gatherings, or potluck meals.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound Italian sausage, sliced.
• 2 red bell peppers, sliced.
• 2 yellow bell peppers, sliced.
• 1 large onion, sliced.
• 2 cups marinara sauce.
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese.
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese.
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano.
• 1 teaspoon dried basil.
• 2 tablespoons olive oil.
• Salt and pepper to taste.

Instructions:

• Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
• In a skillet, sauté sausage slices in olive oil until browned.
• Add onions and bell peppers, cooking until slightly tender.
• Season with salt, pepper, oregano, and basil.
• Spread a thin layer of marinara sauce in a 9×13-inch baking dish.
• Layer sausage and pepper mixture over sauce.
• Sprinkle mozzarella and Parmesan evenly on top.
• Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes.
• Remove foil and bake another 15 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbly.

The sausage is juicy, spicy, and perfectly balanced with sweet peppers.

Cheese melts into a golden, savory topping.

This casserole is hearty, filling, and comforting.

Perfect for family meals or casual gatherings.

Every bite delivers rich, savory, and satisfying flavors.

Polenta and Mushroom Casserole

This polenta and mushroom casserole combines creamy polenta with earthy mushrooms and melted cheese.

It is a vegetarian-friendly dish packed with flavor and texture.

Layers of soft polenta and sautéed mushrooms create a comforting, hearty meal.

Parmesan cheese adds a nutty, savory note and golden crust.

It is ideal for dinner parties, weeknight meals, or cozy family dinners.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups polenta, cooked according to package instructions.
• 2 cups mushrooms, sliced.
• 1 medium onion, chopped.
• 2 cloves garlic, minced.
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese.
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese.
• 2 tablespoons olive oil.
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme.
• Salt and pepper to taste.

Instructions:

• Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
• Sauté onion and garlic in olive oil until translucent.
• Add mushrooms and thyme, cooking until tender.
• Season with salt and pepper.
• Spread half of the cooked polenta in a 9×13-inch baking dish.
• Layer mushroom mixture over polenta.
• Top with remaining polenta and sprinkle mozzarella and Parmesan evenly.
• Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes.
• Remove foil and bake another 15 minutes until cheese is melted and golden.

Creamy polenta combined with earthy mushrooms makes this dish comforting.

Cheese provides richness and a golden, savory crust.

It is visually appealing and hearty enough for main meals.

Perfect for vegetarian dinners or cozy family meals.

Every bite is creamy, flavorful, and satisfying.

Italian Seafood Casserole

This Italian seafood casserole is a luxurious and flavorful dish.

Shrimp, scallops, and fish are baked in a garlic tomato sauce.

Tender pasta or rice layers absorb the sauce, enhancing the taste.

Parmesan and mozzarella create a bubbly, golden topping.

It is perfect for dinner parties or special occasions, offering elegance and flavor.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound mixed seafood (shrimp, scallops, white fish).
• 2 cups marinara sauce.
• 2 cups cooked pasta or rice.
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese.
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese.
• 2 cloves garlic, minced.
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano.
• 1 teaspoon dried basil.
• 2 tablespoons olive oil.
• Salt and pepper to taste.

Instructions:

• Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
• Sauté garlic in olive oil until fragrant.
• Add seafood and cook for 2-3 minutes until slightly opaque.
• Season with salt, pepper, oregano, and basil.
• Spread cooked pasta or rice in a 9×13-inch baking dish.
• Layer seafood over pasta and pour marinara sauce on top.
• Sprinkle mozzarella and Parmesan evenly.
• Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes.
• Remove foil and bake another 10-15 minutes until cheese is melted and golden.

Seafood is tender and flavorful, perfectly complemented by tomato sauce.

Cheese creates a golden, savory topping.

It is an elegant and luxurious casserole.

Perfect for special occasions or festive dinners.

Each bite delivers rich, savory, and satisfying flavors.

Cheesy Ravioli Bake

This cheesy ravioli bake is a quick, satisfying Italian casserole.

Frozen cheese ravioli is layered with marinara sauce and melted mozzarella.

It is easy to prepare, hearty, and perfect for weeknight meals.

Parmesan adds a rich, savory finish to the golden baked topping.

This casserole is comforting, cheesy, and loved by the whole family.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound cheese ravioli (fresh or frozen).
• 2 cups marinara sauce.
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese.
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese.
• 1 teaspoon dried basil.
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano.
• Salt and pepper to taste.

Instructions:

• Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
• Cook ravioli according to package instructions if required.
• Spread a thin layer of marinara sauce in a 9×13-inch baking dish.
• Layer ravioli, sauce, and mozzarella until all ingredients are used.
• Sprinkle Parmesan on top.
• Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes.
• Remove foil and bake an additional 10 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbly.

Cheese ravioli combined with marinara sauce makes a comforting, hearty casserole.

Mozzarella melts perfectly, creating a gooey, golden topping.

It is quick and easy for weeknight dinners.

Perfect for families or casual gatherings.

Each bite is cheesy, savory, and satisfying.

Italian Vegetable Lasagna

This Italian vegetable lasagna is packed with fresh seasonal vegetables and layers of creamy ricotta.

Zucchini, spinach, carrots, and bell peppers create vibrant flavor and texture.

Marinara sauce binds the layers, and mozzarella melts into a golden, bubbling crust.

It is a healthy, vegetarian alternative to traditional meat lasagna.

Perfect for family dinners or festive gatherings, offering both nutrition and flavor.

Ingredients:

• 12 lasagna noodles.
• 2 cups ricotta cheese.
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese.
• 4 cups marinara sauce.
• 1 cup zucchini, sliced.
• 1 cup spinach, chopped.
• 1 cup carrots, sliced.
• 1 cup bell peppers, diced.
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese.
• 1 teaspoon dried basil.
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano.
• Salt and pepper to taste.

Instructions:

• Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
• Cook lasagna noodles according to package instructions and drain.
• Sauté vegetables lightly until tender.
• Spread a thin layer of marinara sauce in a 9×13-inch baking dish.
• Layer noodles, ricotta, vegetables, sauce, and mozzarella.
• Repeat layers, finishing with mozzarella and Parmesan.
• Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes.
• Remove foil and bake another 15 minutes until golden and bubbly.

Vegetables provide vibrant color, flavor, and texture.

Cheese and sauce create a creamy, savory combination.

This lasagna is healthy, hearty, and comforting.

Perfect for family meals or potlucks.

Each slice delivers layers of flavor, nutrition, and satisfaction.