24 Hour Casserole
A hearty, creamy casserole with chicken, cheese, and pasta, perfect for family dinners and leftovers, offering comforting flavors and easy preparation ahead of time.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix all ingredients in a glass bowl and refrigerate for 24 hours.
- Pour the mixture into a greased 9 x 13-inch pan.
- Bake at 225°F (107°C) for 2 hours.
- Serve with sauce.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a bit more milk or a dollop of sour cream. If you want to make it vegetarian, substitute the chicken or tuna with extra mushrooms or a can of chickpeas. You can also use any small pasta shape if tiny shell macaroni isn't available. Experiment with different types of cheese for varied flavor profiles.
Serving Suggestions
This casserole is hearty enough to serve as a main dish. Pair it with a light salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. It goes particularly well with a tangy sauce or dressing on the side. For a great side, try serving it with Chicken Salad With Fruit to complement the flavors.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, cover the casserole with foil to retain moisture and bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 30 minutes, or until heated through. This dish can also be frozen for up to 2 months; just thaw and reheat thoroughly.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of 24 Hour Casserole contains roughly 2423 calories, with 75g protein, 293g carbohydrates, and 108g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (154% of the Daily Value), protein (151% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (117% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 3000mg per serving (130% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I prepare the casserole in advance?
Absolutely! This casserole is designed to be made ahead of time. Once mixed, refrigerate it for 24 hours before baking. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully, enhancing the overall taste.
What can I substitute for the cream of mushroom soup?
If you don’t have cream of mushroom soup, you can use cream of chicken soup or a homemade white sauce as a substitute. For a vegan option, look for plant-based cream soups available in stores or make your own using blended mushrooms and plant-based milk.
Is it possible to make this casserole gluten-free?
Yes, you can easily make this casserole gluten-free by using gluten-free pasta and making sure your soups are also gluten-free. Many brands offer gluten-free cream soups that work well in this recipe.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).