March Madness means exciting games, big gatherings, and meals that keep everyone satisfied without the hassle. These 15 one-pan casseroles are built for feeding a crowd, with bold flavors and easy prep that let you focus on the action. Whether you're hosting a full house or just need a stress-free dinner, these dishes deliver without extra effort. If you're looking for winning recipes that bring people together, these casseroles are the real MVPs.
Chicken and Waffle Casserole
This dish brings together crispy waffles, tender chicken, and a rich, savory-sweet sauce in one easy-to-bake dish. It’s the perfect combination of flavors for a game-day crowd, offering both comfort and a little bit of indulgence. Everything bakes together in one pan, making it easy to serve while keeping the focus on the action. A casserole like this turns any March Madness watch party into a real celebration.
Get the Recipe: Chicken and Waffle Casserole
Almond, Cranberry, and Sweet Potato Stuffing Casserole
This casserole combines soft roasted sweet potatoes, tart cranberries, and crunchy almonds in a hearty and easy-to-share dish. The contrast of flavors and textures makes every bite satisfying, while the one-pan preparation keeps cleanup simple. It works as a side or a standalone dish, making it an excellent choice for feeding a crowd. A bake like this keeps guests coming back for more between every game highlight.
Get the Recipe: Almond, Cranberry, and Sweet Potato Stuffing Casserole
Lamb Shepherd's Pie
A rich layer of seasoned lamb and vegetables is topped with creamy mashed potatoes and baked to perfection in this classic dish. The golden, slightly crisp top locks in all the flavor, making every bite hearty and filling. It’s a great make-ahead option that stays hot for the whole game. A dish like this keeps everyone fueled from tipoff to the final buzzer.
Get the Recipe: Lamb Shepherd's Pie
Sausage Egg Hashbrown Casserole
Crispy hashbrowns, seasoned sausage, and fluffy eggs bake together in this easy one-pan meal. It’s packed with protein and flavor, making it an excellent option for early games or long tournament days. Everything is layered in one dish, making prep and cleanup effortless. A casserole like this is the MVP of any March Madness watch party.
Get the Recipe: Sausage Egg Hashbrown Casserole
Meatball Casserole
Juicy meatballs simmered in a rich tomato sauce and covered in melted cheese make this an instant crowd-pleaser. It’s easy to scoop and serve, making it great for game-day grazing. The sauce keeps everything moist, while the cheese forms a golden, bubbly layer on top. A dish like this proves that the best game day meals come straight from the oven.
Get the Recipe: Meatball Casserole
Mushroom Leek Pasta Kugel
This baked pasta casserole combines soft noodles, earthy mushrooms, and mild leeks in a creamy, baked dish. The top crisps up beautifully while the inside stays tender, making it a perfect balance of texture. It’s easy to prepare and stays warm throughout the game, making it a reliable choice for hosting. A casserole like this keeps things simple while delivering a big flavor.
Get the Recipe: Mushroom Leek Pasta Kugel
Greek Vegetarian Moussaka
This classic Greek dish combines layers of roasted eggplant, rich tomato sauce, and creamy béchamel. The flavors meld together as it bakes, creating a hearty and satisfying dish. It’s easy to slice and serve, making it great for sharing with guests during halftime. A meal like this proves that meatless casseroles can still be the star of the table.
Get the Recipe: Greek Vegetarian Moussaka
Tex Mex Casserole
Bold spices, layers of seasoned meat, cheese, beans, and tortilla chips make this a go-to dish for game day. Everything bakes together into a bubbling, golden dish that’s easy to scoop and serve. The combination of textures and flavors keeps every bite exciting, making it a fan favorite. A casserole like this is a slam dunk for any March Madness gathering.
Get the Recipe: Tex Mex Casserole
Uzbek Chicken Plov
This one-pan dish combines tender chicken, fragrant rice, and bold seasonings for a filling and effortless meal. The slow cooking process allows the flavors to fully develop, making it a dish that gets better with every bite. It’s easy to serve straight from the pan, keeping things simple during game day. A dish like this keeps the energy up through every bracket upset.
Get the Recipe: Uzbek Chicken Plov
Quinoa with Kabocha Squash and Chickpeas in Green Tahini Sauce
Roasted kabocha squash, protein-packed chickpeas, and nutty quinoa come together in this one-pan meal. The rich green tahini sauce ties everything together, making it both flavorful and satisfying. It’s easy to prepare in advance, making it a stress-free option for entertaining. A dish like this adds a fresh, hearty option to any watch party spread.
Get the Recipe: Quinoa with Kabocha Squash and Chickpeas in Green Tahini Sauce
Instant Pot Chicken Ghallaba
This one-pan dish features tender chicken, sautéed vegetables, and rich Middle Eastern spices in a flavorful broth. The Instant Pot makes it quick and easy to prepare while allowing the flavors to fully develop. Served over rice or on its own, it’s a meal that’s as satisfying as it is simple. A dish like this keeps the game day menu exciting without adding extra work.
Get the Recipe: Instant Pot Chicken Ghallaba
Chicken Marbella
A one-pan classic, this dish combines sweet prunes, tangy olives, and seasoned chicken in a sauce that thickens beautifully as it bakes. The balance of flavors makes it a dish that stands out on any table. It’s easy to prepare ahead and stays warm throughout the game, making it a host’s best friend. A meal like this keeps everyone coming back for another helping.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Marbella
Roasted Cauliflower with Tomatoes and Capers
This simple yet flavorful casserole roasts cauliflower with juicy tomatoes and briny capers for a dish that’s packed with contrast. The vegetables caramelize beautifully in the oven, making every bite rich and satisfying. It’s easy to serve as a side or a main dish, depending on the crowd. A one-pan dish like this keeps the game day menu fresh and exciting.
Get the Recipe: Roasted Cauliflower with Tomatoes and Capers
Roasted Cauliflower in Green Herb Sauce
Roasting brings out cauliflower's natural sweetness, while the vibrant green herb sauce adds layers of depth. Everything bakes in one dish, keeping prep easy and flavors bold. The bright colors make it a great addition to any party spread, standing out among classic comfort foods. A dish like this proves that simple ingredients can still steal the show.
Get the Recipe: Roasted Cauliflower in Green Herb Sauce
Buffalo Chicken Pasta Bake
This casserole layers tender pasta, shredded chicken, and bold buffalo sauce under a blanket of melted cheese. The heat from the sauce is balanced with a creamy base, making every bite rich and satisfying. It’s perfect for scooping onto plates or eating straight from the dish, making it a no-fuss option for game day. A meal like this guarantees your watch party will be a hit, no matter who wins the game.
Get the Recipe: Buffalo Chicken Pasta Bake
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