30 Casseroles That Feed 8 People for Under $12

The post 30 Casseroles That Feed 8 People for Under $12 appeared first on Penny Pinchin' Mom.

You’re staring at a calendar full of dinner obligations game nights, potlucks, family gatherings, Sunday suppers and every single one feels like a test of whether you can feed people without your bank account screaming. The mental math starts before you even open a recipe, will this stretch or will you be supplementing with takeout by Thursday?

You’ve stood in that grocery aisle doing the same calculations, putting back ingredients because the “budget-friendly” recipe still wanted $30 in groceries. These 30 casseroles don’t do that to you. Every single one feeds 6-8 people or your family for multiple nights for under $12. Not serves 4 as a side dish. Not add expensive protein separately. Feeds people until they’re full.

You’ll find Beef and Rice Casserole that costs $9 total and tastes like comfort food your grandmother would approve of, Funeral Potatoes for $10.25 that turn a bag of frozen hash browns into the dish everyone fights over, and One-Pot Chicken and Stuffing Bake for $8 that smells like Thanksgiving without the Thanksgiving budget. These aren’t complicated. Most use ingredients you already keep on hand, and several can be prepped ahead when you have fifteen minutes to think.

This is what it feels like to answer “what’s for dinner?” without your chest tightening. To plan for company without planning how to hide your budget. To prove to yourself that feeding people well and feeding them affordably aren’t opposing goals.

1. Beef and Rice Casserole

This is the meal I make when I can’t think. One pan, everything in, walk away. Brown 1 lb ground beef ($4) with a diced onion, stir in 2 cups uncooked rice, one can cream of mushroom soup ($1.25), and 3 cups beef broth ($1.50). Cover with foil and bake at 350°F for 60 minutes. The rice soaks up all that beefy flavor and comes out perfectly fluffy. Feeds 8 for about $9 total ($1.13 per serving). Prep time: 10 minutes. Cook time: 60 minutes. Uses pantry staples and stretches one pound of meat across eight servings. Toss frozen mixed vegetables in during the last 20 minutes for color and nutrition without adding much cost.

2. Funeral Potatoes

Your family will ask for this weekly once they try it. Mix a 2 lb bag of frozen hash browns ($2.50) with 2 cups sour cream ($2), one can cream of chicken soup ($1.25), 2 cups shredded cheddar ($3), and top with crushed cornflakes ($1.50). Bake uncovered at 350°F for 45 minutes until that golden, crunchy top forms. The crispy cornflake crust against the creamy potatoes is why this shows up at every potluck. Feeds 10-12 for about $10.25 total ($0.85-$1.02 per serving). Prep time: 10 minutes. Cook time: 45 minutes. Frozen hash browns cost a fraction of fresh potatoes and require zero prep. Use Greek yogurt instead of half the sour cream to save a dollar and sneak in protein.

3. One-Pot Chicken and Stuffing Bake

When the rotisserie chicken from yesterday needs a second life. Shred 3 cups cooked chicken (one $5 rotisserie chicken), layer in a 9×13 pan with one box stuffing mix ($1.50), pour 2 cups chicken broth ($1) over everything, dot with 3 tablespoons butter ($0.50). Bake covered at 375°F for 30 minutes, then uncovered for 10 more. That crispy stuffing top with tender chicken underneath tastes like Thanksgiving dinner on a Tuesday. Feeds 8 for about $8 total ($1 per serving). Prep time: 5 minutes. Cook time: 40 minutes. Rotisserie chicken stretches further when shredded and mixed with inexpensive stuffing. Add a bag of frozen mixed vegetables ($1) between the chicken and stuffing layers for a complete meal.

4. Tuna Noodle Casserole

The salty chips get golden and crunchy while everything underneath gets bubbly and comforting – picky eaters don’t argue with this one. Cook 16 oz egg noodles ($1.50), drain, and mix with 3 cans tuna ($3), 2 cans cream of mushroom soup ($2.50), 1 cup frozen peas ($0.50), and 1 cup milk ($0.30). Top with crushed potato chips ($1.50) and bake at 375°F for 25 minutes. Feeds 10 for about $9.30 total ($0.93 per serving). Prep time: 15 minutes. Cook time: 25 minutes. Canned tuna provides protein at a fraction of fresh fish prices. Swap the mushroom soup for cheddar cheese soup when it’s on sale – kids love the cheesier version.

5. Baked Ziti

The kitchen smells like an Italian restaurant while this cooks. Boil 1 lb ziti pasta ($1.50), mix with one 24 oz jar marinara ($2), 15 oz ricotta ($3), and 1 beaten egg ($0.25). Pour into a 9×13 pan, top with 2 cups mozzarella ($3), and bake covered at 375°F for 25 minutes, then uncovered for 10 more until the cheese bubbles. That pull-apart cheese moment when you scoop it out never gets old. Feeds 12 for about $9.75 total ($0.81 per serving). Prep time: 15 minutes. Cook time: 35 minutes. Pasta and jarred sauce create an impressive dish for under $10 total. Brown 1 lb ground beef ($4) and mix it in for a heartier version that still stays under $1.15 per serving.

6. Breakfast Casserole

This is what I make when I need brunch to look impressive but my wallet says no. Layer 8 cups cubed bread ($1 for day-old loaf), 1 lb cooked sausage ($3.50), 2 cups shredded cheddar ($3), then pour 8 beaten eggs ($2) mixed with 2 cups milk ($0.60) over everything. Refrigerate overnight, then bake at 350°F for 45 minutes. The bread soaks up the custard and gets golden and puffy. Feeds 12 for about $10.10 total ($0.84 per serving). Prep time: 15 minutes plus overnight. Cook time: 45 minutes. Day-old bread works perfectly and costs half the price of fresh. Use whatever cheese is on sale – pepper jack adds a nice kick.

7. Mexican Chicken and Rice Bake

When you need flavor that hits hard without the price tag. Mix 3 cups cooked shredded chicken ($5 rotisserie), 2 cups uncooked rice, one can black beans drained ($0.89), one can Rotel tomatoes ($1.29), one packet taco seasoning ($0.50), and 3 cups chicken broth ($1.50). Cover with foil and bake at 350°F for 60 minutes. Top with 2 cups of shredded cheese ($3) for the last 5 minutes. Feeds 10 for about $12.18 total ($1.22 per serving). Prep time: 10 minutes. Cook time: 65 minutes. Dry rice cooked in the casserole absorbs maximum flavor while keeping costs low. Serve with tortilla chips and sour cream – it stretches even further as a nacho bar.

8. Hamburger Potato Casserole

That creamy, beefy sauce seeps into every potato layer – pure comfort when you need a win. Brown 2 lbs of ground beef ($8) with diced onion, then season with salt and pepper. Layer in a 9×13 pan with 6 cups ofthinly sliced potatoes (3 lbs for $3). Pour 2 cans of cream of mushroom soup ($2.50) mixed with 1 cup milk ($0.30) over everything. Cover with foil and bake at 375°F for 90 minutes until the potatoes are fork-tender. Feeds 12 for about $13.80 total ($1.15 per serving). Prep time: 20 minutes. Cook time: 90 minutes. Potatoes are one of the most affordable vegetables and can significantly stretch a meat dish. Use a mandoline to slice potatoes thin and even – they’ll cook faster and more uniformly.

9. Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Bake

My kids ask for broccoli when it’s buried in cheese sauce. Mix 4 cups cooked chopped chicken ($5 rotisserie), one 12 oz bag frozen broccoli florets ($1.50), 2 cups cooked rice ($0.50), 2 cans cream of chicken soup ($2.50), and 2 cups shredded cheddar ($3). Spread in a 9×13 pan, top with crushed Ritz crackers ($2), and bake at 350°F for 35 minutes. The buttery cracker topping stays crispy. Feeds 10 for about $14.50 total ($1.45 per serving). Prep time: 15 minutes. Cook time: 35 minutes. Frozen broccoli costs less than fresh and requires no prep work. Swap fresh broccoli crowns when they’re under $1/lb – roast them first for deeper flavor.

10. Sausage and Bean Casserole

The cornbread bakes right on top like a golden lid – this is a weeknight lifesaver when I forgot to plan dinner. Brown 1 lb ground sausage ($3.50), mix with 2 cans pork and beans ($2), 1 can kidney beans drained ($0.89), 1 can diced tomatoes ($0.89), and 1 diced bell pepper ($1). Pour into a 9×13 pan, top with cornbread batter from one box mix ($1.50 plus $0.50 for egg and milk), and bake at 375°F for 30 minutes. Feeds 10 for about $10.28 total ($1.03 per serving). Prep time: 15 minutes. Cook time: 30 minutes. Canned beans provide filling protein and fiber for pennies per serving. Double the cornbread layer if you’ve got extra hungry people – it’s the cheapest part.

11. Cabbage Roll Casserole

All the flavor of stuffed cabbage rolls without the annoying rolling part. Brown 2 lbs ground beef ($8) with a diced onion, stir in 2 cups uncooked rice, one head chopped cabbage ($2), two 15 oz cans tomato sauce ($2), and 2 cups beef broth ($1). Season with salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Cover and bake at 350°F for 90 minutes, stirring once halfway. The cabbage melts down and gets sweet and tender. Feeds 12 for about $13 total ($1.08 per serving). Prep time: 15 minutes. Cook time: 90 minutes. One head of cabbage adds incredible volume and nutrition for about $2. This tastes better the next day after the flavors marry – make it ahead.

12. Chicken Alfredo Pasta Bake

That browned cheese with the creamy sauce underneath is restaurant-quality – guests think you spent way more when you serve this. Cook 1 lb penne pasta ($1.50), toss with one 15 oz jar Alfredo sauce ($2.50), 3 cups cooked chopped chicken ($5 rotisserie), and one 10 oz bag frozen spinach thawed and squeezed dry ($1). Spread in a 9×13 pan, top with 2 cups of mozzarella ($3), and bake at 375°F for 25 minutes. Feeds 10 for about $13 total ($1.30 per serving). Prep time: 15 minutes. Cook time: 25 minutes. Jarred Alfredo sauce creates a rich dish without expensive cream and cheese. Make your own Alfredo with butter, cream, and parmesan for half the cost if you’ve got time.

13. Tamale Pie

When the pantry looks empty, but payday is Friday. Brown 1 lb ground beef ($4) with a diced onion, stir in one can corn drained ($0.89), one can black beans drained ($0.89), one can diced tomatoes ($0.89), and one packet taco seasoning ($0.50). Pour into a 9×13 pan, top with two boxes of Jiffy cornbread batter ($1.20 total plus $1 for eggs and milk), and bake at 400°F for 25 minutes. The cornbread gets golden with slightly crispy edges. Feeds 10 for about $9.37 total ($0.94 per serving). Prep time: 15 minutes. Cook time: 25 minutes. Jiffy cornbread mix costs about 60 cents and makes any casserole feel special. Top individual servings with sour cream, cheese, and cilantro for a fancy presentation.

14. Tater Tot Hotdish

That focused quiet when the family is engaged with their plates. Brown 2 lbs ground beef ($8) with a diced onion, spread in a 9×13 pan, layer with one 12 oz bag frozen mixed vegetables ($1.50), pour 2 cans cream of mushroom soup ($2.50) over everything, then top with a 32 oz bag frozen tater tots ($3). Bake uncovered at 375°F for 45 minutes until the tots are golden and crispy. The creamy middle with crunchy top hits different. Feeds 12 for about $15 total ($1.25 per serving). Prep time: 10 minutes. Cook time: 45 minutes. Frozen tater tots create a satisfying crust for less than a homemade potato topping. Season the beef layer with garlic powder and Worcestershire sauce for depth without adding cost.

15. King Ranch Chicken Casserole

Your Texas friends will approve of this one. Layer torn corn tortillas ($2 for 30-count), 4 cups shredded rotisserie chicken ($5), one can Rotel tomatoes ($1.29), one can cream of chicken soup ($1.25), one can cream of mushroom soup ($1.25), and 3 cups shredded Mexican cheese blend ($4.50) in a 9×13 pan. Pour 1 cup chicken broth ($0.50) over everything and bake covered at 350°F for 40 minutes. The tortillas soak up all that spicy, creamy sauce and get soft like enchiladas. Feeds 12 for about $15.79 total ($1.32 per serving). Prep time: 15 minutes. Cook time: 40 minutes. Corn tortillas cost less than flour tortillas and create perfect casserole layers. Add diced bell peppers and onions to the chicken layer for texture without incurring extra cost.

16. Meatball Sub Casserole

The satisfaction of biting into a meatball sub without the mess. Cut 1 loaf of French bread ($2) into cubes, toss with 3 tablespoons melted butter ($0.50), and press into the bottom of a 9×13 pan. Top with one 24 oz bag frozen meatballs ($5), one 24 oz jar marinara ($2), and 3 cups shredded mozzarella ($4.50). Bake at 375°F for 35 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and the bread edges get toasty. That crispy bread bottom is what makes it. Feeds 10 for about $14 total ($1.40 per serving). Prep time: 10 minutes. Cook time: 35 minutes. Frozen meatballs save time and cost less than making them from scratch. Sprinkle Italian seasoning and garlic powder on the bread layer before adding toppings.

17. Chili Mac Casserole

When you can’t decide between two comfort foods. Cook 1 lb elbow macaroni ($1.50), brown 1 lb ground beef ($4), mix both with one 15 oz can chili beans ($1.29), one 15 oz can diced tomatoes ($0.89), one packet chili seasoning ($0.50), and 1 cup beef broth ($0.50). Pour into a 9×13 pan, top with 2 cups shredded cheddar ($3), and bake at 350°F for 30 minutes. My son calls this the best of both worlds dinner, and he’s not wrong. Feeds 10 for about $11.68 total ($1.17 per serving). Prep time: 20 minutes. Cook time: 30 minutes. Pasta doubles the volume of the meat without doubling the cost. Top with crushed Fritos for that Frito pie crossover everyone loves.

18. Chicken Enchilada Casserole

This is what I make when I need Mexican food but don’t have enchilada-rolling patience. Layer 12 corn tortillas ($2), 3 cups shredded rotisserie chicken ($5), one 19-oz can red enchilada sauce ($2.50), one 4 oz can diced green chiles ($1), and 3 cups shredded Mexican cheese ($4.50) in a 9×13 pan, repeating layers twice. Bake covered at 375°F for 30 minutes, then uncovered for 10 more. The tortillas get soft and saucy like real enchiladas. Feeds 10 for about $15 total ($1.50 per serving). Prep time: 15 minutes. Cook time: 40 minutes. Layering instead of rolling saves 20 minutes of prep time and delivers the same flavors. Use leftover salsa verde instead of red sauce when you have it – totally different flavor profile.

19. Beefy Nacho Casserole

The joyful chaos that means everyone’s happy – this gets that reaction every time. Brown 2 lbs ground beef ($8) with one packet taco seasoning ($0.50), spread half in a 9×13 pan, layer with crushed tortilla chips ($2), one 15 oz can refried beans ($1.29), 3 cups shredded Mexican cheese ($4.50), then repeat layers. Bake at 375°F for 25 minutes until everything’s melty. Opening that oven to the bubbling cheese and chip smell is everything. Feeds 12 for about $16.29 total ($1.36 per serving). Prep time: 15 minutes. Cook time: 25 minutes. Tortilla chips add satisfying crunch for less than $2. Top with shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, and sour cream for loaded nacho vibes.

20. Spaghetti Pie

Guests always ask where you got this recipe. Cook 12 oz spaghetti ($1.25), toss hot pasta with 2 beaten eggs ($0.50) and 1 cup parmesan ($2), press into a greased 9×13 pan. Spread 15 oz ricotta ($3) over the pasta, top with 1 lb browned ground beef ($4) mixed with 24 oz marinara ($2), then cover with 2 cups mozzarella ($3). Bake at 350°F for 30 minutes. That pasta crust gets almost crispy at the edges. Feeds 12 for about $15.75 total ($1.31 per serving). Prep time: 25 minutes. Cook time: 30 minutes. Eggs bind the pasta into a crust, creating a unique dish from simple ingredients. Let it cool for 10 minutes before cutting – it holds together better for pretty slices.

21. BBQ Chicken and Cornbread Bake

Your house smells like summer even in January. Mix 4 cups shredded rotisserie chicken ($5) with 1 cup BBQ sauce ($1.50) and spread in a 9×13 pan. Top with one box of cornbread mix ($1.50 plus $0.50 for egg and milk), 1 cup of shredded cheddar ($1.50), and 3 sliced green onions ($0.50). Bake at 400°F for 25 minutes until the cornbread is golden. The sweet cornbread against tangy BBQ chicken just works. Feeds 10 for about $10.50 total ($1.05 per serving). Prep time: 10 minutes. Cook time: 25 minutes. One rotisserie chicken feeds 10 people when paired with cornbread. Stir a can of drained corn into the chicken mixture for extra texture and sweetness.

22. Eggplant Parmesan Casserole

This converts eggplant haters. Slice 2 large eggplants ($3), brush with olive oil, and roast at 425°F for 20 minutes. Layer in a 9×13 pan with 24 oz marinara ($2), 15 oz ricotta ($3), and 3 cups mozzarella ($4.50). Bake at 375°F for 35 minutes. The eggplant gets tender and absorbs all that cheesy tomato flavor without the heavy breading. Feeds 10 for about $12.50 total ($1.25 per serving). Prep time: 30 minutes. Cook time: 55 minutes total. Eggplant provides a meaty texture without the meat price tag. Salt the eggplant slices and let them sit for 15 minutes before roasting to draw out bitterness.

23. Ham and Scalloped Potato Bake

The ham flavor infuses every creamy potato layer – holiday leftovers never had it so good. Layer 6 cups thinly sliced potatoes (3 lbs for $3) with 2 cups diced ham ($4), 1 sliced onion, and 2 cups shredded cheddar ($3) in a 9×13 pan. Pour 2 cans of cream of celery soup ($2.50) mixed with 1 cup milk ($0.30) over everything. Cover with foil and bake at 375°F for 75 minutes, then uncovered for 15 more minutes until golden. Feeds 12 for about $12.80 total ($1.07 per serving). Prep time: 20 minutes. Cook time: 90 minutes. Diced deli ham stretches further than sliced and costs less per pound. Ask the deli counter for ham ends – they’re cheaper and perfect for dicing.

24. Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole

This is restaurant fancy without the restaurant price. Cut 3 cups cooked chicken ($5 rotisserie) and 8 oz diced deli ham ($3.50) into bite-size pieces, layer in a 9×13 pan with 2 cups Swiss cheese ($4). Mix 2 cans of cream of chicken soup ($2.50) with 1 cup of milk ($0.30) and pour over. Top with 2 cups crushed Ritz crackers ($2) mixed with 4 tablespoons melted butter ($0.70). Bake at 350°F for 35 minutes. That buttery cracker crust gets golden perfection. Feeds 12 for about $18 total ($1.50 per serving). Prep time: 15 minutes. Cook time: 35 minutes. Deli ham costs a fraction of Canadian bacon and delivers a similar flavor. Add a teaspoon of Dijon mustard to the soup mixture for authentic cordon bleu flavor.

25. Pizza Pasta Bake

My kids’ faces when they see this coming out of the oven. Cook 1 lb rigatoni ($1.50), mix with 24 oz marinara ($2), 2 cups diced pepperoni ($3.50), and 2 cups shredded mozzarella ($3). Pour into a 9×13 pan, top with another cup of mozzarella ($1.50), and bake at 375°F for 25 minutes. The pepperoni edges get slightly crispy, and the cheese gets those brown bubbles. Feeds 12 for about $11.50 total ($0.96 per serving). Prep time: 15 minutes. Cook time: 25 minutes. Pizza flavors without delivery fees or expensive specialty ingredients. Add whatever pizza toppings you have – olives, mushrooms, and sausage all work perfectly.

26. Stuffed Pepper Casserole

All the stuffed pepper flavor without the tedious hollowing-out part. Brown 2 lbs ground beef ($8) with 2 diced bell peppers ($2) and a diced onion, stir in 2 cups uncooked rice, two 15 oz cans tomato sauce ($2), 2 cups beef broth ($1), and Italian seasoning. Pour into a 9×13 pan, cover with foil, and bake at 350°F for 60 minutes. Top with 2 cups of mozzarella ($3) for the last 5 minutes. The rice absorbs all that tomato-pepper goodness. Feeds 12 for about $16 total ($1.33 per serving). Prep time: 15 minutes. Cook time: 65 minutes. Deconstructing stuffed peppers means less waste and easier prep. Use whatever color peppers are cheapest – I’ve made this with all green when they’re 50 cents each.

27. French Onion Chicken Bake

Pure comfort when you need something warm in your soul. Arrange 6 chicken breasts ($8) in a 9×13 pan, top each with a slice of Swiss cheese ($2 for 8 slices), pour 2 cans French onion soup ($3) over everything, and cover with crushed French fried onions ($2.50). Bake covered at 375°F for 45 minutes, then uncovered for 10 more. The chicken stays tender, and those fried onions get crispy and golden. Feeds 12 for about $15.50 total ($1.29 per serving). Prep time: 10 minutes. Cook time: 55 minutes. Canned French onion soup delivers rich flavor without slow-cooking onions for hours. Make extra – this reheats beautifully for lunch the next day.

28. Creamy Tuscan Chicken Pasta Bake

Weeknight dinner that looks like you tried way harder than you did. Cook 1 lb penne ($1.50), mix with 3 cups diced cooked chicken ($5 rotisserie), one 14 oz can diced tomatoes drained ($0.89), 3 cups fresh spinach ($2), 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes ($2), and 1 cup heavy cream ($2). Pour into a 9×13 pan, top with 2 cups shredded parmesan ($3), and bake at 375°F for 25 minutes. The cream sauce thickens as it bakes and coats every bite. Feeds 10 for about $16.39 total ($1.64 per serving). Prep time: 15 minutes. Cook time: 25 minutes. Sun-dried tomatoes from the jar (not oil-packed) cost less and add intense flavor. Stir in a tablespoon of Italian seasoning and garlic powder for extra depth.

29. White Chicken Chili Casserole

When you’re craving soup but need something heartier, this delivers. Mix 4 cups shredded rotisserie chicken ($5), 2 cans white beans drained ($2), 2 cans diced green chiles ($2), 1 cup sour cream ($2), 2 cups shredded Monterey Jack cheese ($3), and 1 teaspoon cumin. Spread in a 9×13 pan, top with crushed tortilla chips ($2), and bake at 350°F for 30 minutes. The creamy, slightly spicy filling with crunchy chip topping hits perfectly. Feeds 10 for about $16 total ($1.60 per serving). Prep time: 10 minutes. Cook time: 30 minutes. Canned beans and green chiles pack huge flavor for under $5 combined. Top with fresh cilantro and lime juice before serving for brightness.

30. Pierogi Casserole

All the pierogi flavors without the folding and boiling – this one surprises everyone. Cook 1 lb egg noodles ($1.50), toss with 4 cups mashed potatoes (3 lbs potatoes for $3 boiled and mashed with butter and milk $1), 2 cups shredded cheddar ($3), and 1 cup sour cream ($2). Spread in a 9×13 pan, top with 1 cup cooked crumbled bacon ($3 for a pound) and another cup of cheddar ($1.50). Bake at 350°F for 30 minutes. Feeds 12 for about $15 total ($1.25 per serving). Prep time: 30 minutes. Cook time: 30 minutes. Homemade mashed potatoes cost a fraction of frozen pierogies. Sauté diced onions in the bacon fat and mix them into the potato layer for authentic flavor.

Feed Your People Tonight

That calendar full of dinner obligations doesn’t have to come with a side of financial panic anymore. The mental math, the ingredient swapping, the quiet worry that you can’t afford to be generous – it’s exhausting, and these casseroles address it. Every single one stretches your budget while filling plates.

Start with Funeral Potatoes if you need something that looks impressive for $10.25, try Tater Tot Hotdish when you want pure comfort food that feeds twelve, or make Beef and Rice Casserole when you need dinner on the table for under $9. You’ve got 30 options here that prove feeding a crowd and staying on budget aren’t mutually exclusive. You can answer “what’s for dinner?” without your stomach dropping. You can feed people well AND affordably – with confidence, not calculation.

The post 30 Casseroles That Feed 8 People for Under $12 appeared first on Penny Pinchin' Mom.