Enjoying summertime casseroles doesn’t cross many minds. But here are a few twists on cozy meals you should know about this season.
As we head into the warm sun and blue skies, finding easy and refreshing things to make for dinner can be challenging. We skip out on casseroles and opt for cold salads, leafy greens, and lean grilled meats. But the good news is that there are several delicious ways to make casseroles in the summertime, even if you want to skip turning on the oven.
Creamy Salsa Verde Chicken Enchiladas
Enchiladas are a traditional Mexican offering, and they’re easy to prepare. You can tailor them to your preferences, which is a unique way to incorporate this deliciousness into every season. If you’re looking to skip the oven, layer your ingredients in a Dutch oven and set the pot on a campfire or well-ventilated grill.
Zucchini and Squash Casserole
For those who love a garden harvest, this one is for you! Zucchini and squash casserole with fresh vegetables is a delicious summertime treat full of nutrients, low on the cards, and easy to prep. You need only the vegetables, olive oil, garlic, and cheese of choice. If you grow fresh herbs in your garden, consider chopping fresh parsley for a green garnish.
A good rule of thumb is to prepare the squash and zucchini by removing some of their water content. Cut them into even slices, sprinkle a touch of salt, and set them aside for about 10–15 minutes.
Chicken Broccoli Bake
An easy way to incorporate more vegetables into your children’s diets is by adding them to pasta. This creamy chicken broccoli bake is an excellent summertime casserole that you can use the Dutch oven or a regular baking dish for. It’s delicious, gooey, and, best of all, cheesy.
Not every summer day is full of sunshine and rainbows, so consider this dish if it’s rainy and chilly. Once you parboil the noodles, combine the ingredients—shredded chicken, broccoli florets, different cheeses, and chicken broth—in a baking dish and let it go for about 20 minutes. If you pre-cook most of the ingredients, all you need to do is melt the cheese, and the flavors will come together.
RELATED: Bush to Kitchen: Blueberry Recipes To Try This Summer
Stuffed Pepper Casserole
Not everyone is a fan of stuffed peppers, primarily because they dislike bell peppers. An easy way to enjoy that hearty meal without preparing it the traditional way is making stuffed pepper casseroles.
This is a dismantled version of stuffed bell peppers, so you’re free to swap and add in the things you like. It’s even better when cooked in the Dutch oven, so toss everything into the pot and set it on the grill.
Upside-Down Pizza
Pizza is one of those typical things we can enjoy at all times of the year, and it’ll always taste good. Consider an upside-down dutch oven pizza the next time you’re in the mood.
You will prepare this pizza essentially the same way you prepare a traditional one, with the exception of using a dutch oven and layering things from the bottom to the top. The crust will go on the top, and you’ll cook the mixture long enough to brown the crust’s edges and combine the flavors. This will quickly become a family favorite!
There are many ways to turn those warm, cozy meals into scrumptious summer casseroles. Between grills, campfires, and dutch ovens, you can enjoy all your favorites and classics. What will you enjoy first?
