Description
These customizable mini casseroles are the perfect cozy, comforting dinner for Valentine’s Day. Quick to prep, endlessly flexible, and baked in individual dishes, they turn any night into a celebration.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1/2 cup cooked protein per casserole (shredded chicken, ground beef, sausage, lentils, beans, tofu)
- 1/2 to 1 cup chopped vegetables (mushrooms, spinach, broccoli, roasted peppers, zucchini, tomatoes, cauliflower, onions, bell peppers, artichoke hearts)
- 1/3 cup sauce per casserole (cream of mushroom soup, Alfredo, tomato sauce, béchamel, Greek yogurt, pesto, buffalo sauce, coconut milk)
- 1/2 cup cooked grains or starch (rice, pasta, quinoa, cubed bread, cauliflower rice, zucchini noodles)
- A generous handful of cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, Gruyère, feta, goat cheese, Parmesan, vegan cheese)
- Seasonings to taste (garlic powder, Italian herbs, smoked paprika, black pepper, thyme, oregano, nutmeg, lemon zest)
- Breadcrumbs or crushed crackers for topping (optional)
- Butter or nonstick spray for greasing dishes
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Place ramekins on a baking sheet and lightly grease each dish.
- Chop vegetables, shred cheese, and prepare protein. Thaw and pat dry frozen veggies if using.
- In a mixing bowl, combine protein, veggies, half the cheese, sauce, and seasonings. Mix well.
- Spoon mixture into each ramekin, filling about 2/3 full. Top with extra cheese and breadcrumbs if desired.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes until tops are golden and bubbly and edges pull away from the sides.
- Optional: Broil for 2 minutes for extra crispy tops, watching closely.
- Let casseroles rest for 5 minutes before serving—they will be very hot.
Notes
Leave 1/2 inch at the top of each dish to prevent overflow. Mix cheese types for best flavor. Assemble ahead and refrigerate for easy baking later. Swap ingredients to fit dietary needs or use up leftovers. For crispy tops, sprinkle breadcrumbs or panko and broil briefly. Let rest before serving to avoid burns.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 mini casserole (ab
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 3
- Sodium: 350
- Fat: 13
- Saturated Fat: 6
- Carbohydrates: 22
- Fiber: 4
- Protein: 15
Keywords: mini casseroles, Valentine’s Day dinner, comfort food, individual casseroles, easy dinner, customizable, gluten-free, vegetarian, meal prep, cozy recipes