Grandma’s Thanksgiving Casseroles

 

Introduction

Thanksgiving is a time for gathering around the family table, sharing comforting homemade dishes, and celebrating the traditions that make the holiday so special. While roasted turkey often takes center stage, it’s the warm, creamy, cheesy casseroles that everyone looks forward to year after year.

Grandma’s Thanksgiving Casseroles bring together six classic American comfort-food favorites that are perfect for holiday dinners, family gatherings, and special celebrations. From rich Baked Mac and Cheese to crispy Funeral Potatoes, traditional Green Bean Casserole, sweet and fluffy Sweet Potato Casserole, loaded Twice Baked Potato Casserole, and creamy Hash Brown Casserole, this collection has something for everyone.

Each recipe is made with familiar ingredients and prepared using simple home-cooking techniques. These casseroles are hearty, satisfying, and designed to bring the comforting flavors of a traditional Thanksgiving dinner to your table.

Whether you’re preparing a large holiday feast or simply looking for delicious side dishes to serve throughout the year, these six homemade casseroles are wonderful recipes to keep in your family collection.

1. Grandma’s Baked Mac and Cheese

Introduction

Nothing says classic American comfort food quite like a bubbling dish of homemade baked macaroni and cheese. With tender elbow macaroni, a rich and creamy cheese sauce, and a golden, crunchy breadcrumb topping, this casserole is a Thanksgiving favorite that both children and adults love.

The combination of mild cheddar and sharp white cheddar creates a delicious balance of smooth, creamy texture and bold cheesy flavor. Whole milk and evaporated milk give the sauce extra richness, while buttery panko breadcrumbs provide the perfect crispy finish.

This homemade Baked Mac and Cheese is an excellent side dish for roasted turkey, baked ham, or a traditional Sunday dinner.

Ingredients

2½ cups (approximately 250 g) dry elbow macaroni

½ tablespoon (7.5 ml) olive oil

8 tablespoons (113 g) butter, divided

1 tablespoon (8 g) all-purpose flour

2 cups (480 ml) whole milk

24 oz (710 ml) evaporated milk

1½ teaspoons salt, or to taste

1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

2½ cups (approximately 280 g) shredded mild cheddar cheese

2½ cups (approximately 280 g) shredded sharp white cheddar cheese

1 cup (60 g) panko breadcrumbs

Preparation Steps

Step 1: Prepare the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

Lightly grease a 9 × 13-inch baking dish with butter or nonstick cooking spray.

Step 2: Cook the Macaroni

Bring a large pot of water to a boil.

Add the elbow macaroni and cook according to the package instructions, stopping approximately 1–2 minutes before it reaches your preferred tenderness.

Drain the pasta thoroughly and toss with the olive oil to prevent sticking.

Set aside.

Step 3: Prepare the Cheese Sauce

In a large saucepan, melt 6 tablespoons of butter over medium-low heat.

Add the flour and whisk continuously for approximately 1 minute.

Gradually pour in the whole milk, followed by the evaporated milk, whisking constantly until smooth.

Cook gently for 5–7 minutes, stirring frequently, until the sauce begins to thicken slightly.

Step 4: Add the Seasonings

Stir in the salt and black pepper.

Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning if necessary.

Step 5: Melt the Cheese

Reduce the heat to low.

Gradually add the mild cheddar and sharp white cheddar, reserving approximately 1 cup of the combined cheese for topping.

Stir until the cheese melts completely and the sauce becomes smooth and creamy.

Avoid boiling the sauce after adding the cheese.

Step 6: Combine the Pasta and Sauce

Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce.

Stir gently until every piece of pasta is evenly coated.

Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish.

Step 7: Add the Topping

Sprinkle the reserved cheese evenly over the macaroni.

Melt the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter and mix with the panko breadcrumbs.

Scatter the buttery breadcrumbs over the cheese.

Step 8: Bake Until Golden

Bake uncovered for approximately 25–30 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbling around the edges and the topping is golden brown.

Allow the casserole to rest for 5–10 minutes before serving.

Helpful Tips

Use freshly shredded cheese for the smoothest sauce.

Avoid overcooking the pasta before baking.

For an extra creamy casserole, reserve a little additional warm milk to loosen the sauce if necessary.

Serve while warm for the best texture.

Conclusion

Grandma’s Baked Mac and Cheese is rich, creamy, cheesy, and topped with a delicious golden crust. It’s the kind of comforting side dish that makes every Thanksgiving dinner feel complete.

2. Grandma’s Funeral Potatoes

Introduction

Funeral Potatoes are a beloved American comfort-food casserole known for their creamy potato filling, melted cheddar cheese, and crispy cornflake topping. Despite their unusual name, these potatoes are served at many happy occasions, including Thanksgiving dinners, Christmas celebrations, potlucks, and family reunions.

This casserole combines tender shredded hash browns with sour cream, cheddar cheese, cream of chicken soup, and savory seasonings. A buttery cornflake topping adds a wonderful crunch that contrasts beautifully with the creamy potatoes underneath.

It’s an easy, satisfying side dish that can be assembled ahead of time and baked just before serving.

Ingredients

30 oz (850 g) frozen shredded hash browns, thawed

½ large yellow onion, finely chopped

1 tablespoon (14 g) butter

1 teaspoon salt

½ teaspoon ground black pepper

½ teaspoon garlic powder

2 cups (480 g) sour cream

2½ cups (approximately 280 g) shredded cheddar cheese

1 can (10.5 oz / 298 g) condensed cream of chicken soup

3 cups (approximately 85 g) cornflakes, lightly crushed

Optional

2 tablespoons melted butter for the cornflake topping

Preparation Steps

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

Lightly grease a 9 × 13-inch casserole dish.

Step 2: Prepare the Onion

Melt 1 tablespoon of butter in a small skillet over medium heat.

Add the chopped onion and cook for approximately 4–5 minutes until softened and fragrant.

Remove from the heat.

Step 3: Prepare the Creamy Mixture

In a large mixing bowl, combine the sour cream and condensed cream of chicken soup.

Stir until smooth.

Add the salt, black pepper, and garlic powder.

Step 4: Add the Cheese

Stir the shredded cheddar cheese into the creamy mixture.

Mix until evenly distributed.

Step 5: Add the Potatoes

Add the thawed, well-drained hash browns and cooked onion.

Gently fold everything together until the potatoes are completely coated.

Step 6: Transfer to the Baking Dish

Spread the potato mixture evenly in the prepared casserole dish.

Use a spatula to smooth the top.

Step 7: Prepare the Cornflake Topping

Place the crushed cornflakes in a bowl.

For a richer, crispier topping, toss them with 2 tablespoons of melted butter.

Sprinkle the cornflakes evenly over the casserole.

Step 8: Bake

Bake uncovered for approximately 40–45 minutes, until the filling is bubbling and the cornflake topping is golden and crispy.

Allow the casserole to rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Helpful Tips

Thaw and drain the hash browns before mixing to prevent excess moisture.

Use freshly shredded cheddar for better melting.

Add the cornflake topping just before baking to maintain its crunch.

If the topping browns too quickly, loosely cover the casserole with aluminum foil.

Conclusion

Grandma’s Funeral Potatoes are creamy, cheesy, and wonderfully comforting. Their crispy golden topping and rich potato filling make them a memorable addition to any Thanksgiving table.

3. Grandma’s Green Bean Casserole

Introduction

Green Bean Casserole is one of the most recognizable side dishes served during American Thanksgiving celebrations. This homemade version combines fresh green beans, tender mushrooms, aromatic garlic, and a rich cream sauce, all finished with crispy fried onions.

Unlike versions made entirely with canned soup, this recipe features a homemade sauce prepared with butter, flour, broth, and half-and-half. The result is a flavorful casserole with a creamy texture and delicious savory depth.

It’s a wonderful way to bring fresh vegetables to the Thanksgiving table while still serving a classic comfort-food favorite.

Ingredients

2 pounds (900 g) fresh green beans, trimmed

2 tablespoons (28 g) unsalted butter

1 medium yellow onion, finely chopped

3 cloves garlic, minced

8 oz (226 g) cremini mushrooms, sliced

¼ cup (30 g) all-purpose flour

2 cups (480 ml) half-and-half

1 cup (240 ml) chicken or vegetable broth

1 teaspoon soy sauce

½ teaspoon salt

½ teaspoon ground black pepper

½ teaspoon ground nutmeg

1½ cups (approximately 85 g) crispy fried onions

Preparation Steps

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

Lightly grease a 9 × 13-inch baking dish.

Step 2: Prepare the Green Beans

Wash the green beans and trim the ends.

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.

Add the green beans and cook for approximately 4–5 minutes until bright green and slightly tender.

Transfer immediately to a bowl of ice water to stop the cooking process.

Drain thoroughly.

Step 3: Cook the Onion and Mushrooms

Melt the butter in a large skillet over medium heat.

Add the chopped onion and cook for approximately 3 minutes.

Add the sliced mushrooms and continue cooking for another 5–6 minutes until softened and lightly browned.

Step 4: Add the Garlic

Stir in the minced garlic.

Cook for approximately 30 seconds until fragrant.

Step 5: Make the Cream Sauce

Sprinkle the flour over the vegetables and stir for approximately 1 minute.

Gradually add the broth while whisking.

Slowly pour in the half-and-half and continue stirring until smooth.

Step 6: Season the Sauce

Add the soy sauce, salt, black pepper, and nutmeg.

Simmer gently for 4–5 minutes until the sauce thickens.

Taste and adjust the seasoning.

Step 7: Combine with the Green Beans

Add the drained green beans to the sauce.

Stir gently until evenly coated.

Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish.

Step 8: Bake the Casserole

Bake uncovered for approximately 20 minutes, until hot and bubbling.

Step 9: Add the Crispy Onions

Remove the casserole from the oven and sprinkle the crispy fried onions over the top.

Return to the oven for another 5–8 minutes, until the onions are golden and crisp.

Helpful Tips

Use fresh green beans for the best texture.

Avoid overcooking the beans before baking.

Cook the mushrooms until their excess moisture evaporates for a richer sauce.

Add crispy onions near the end of baking to prevent burning.

Conclusion

Grandma’s Green Bean Casserole brings together tender vegetables, a rich homemade cream sauce, and a crispy onion topping. It’s a timeless Thanksgiving side dish that adds both flavor and tradition to the holiday table.

4. Grandma’s Sweet Potato Casserole

Introduction

Sweet Potato Casserole is a Thanksgiving classic that combines the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes with warm spices, brown sugar, and a golden marshmallow topping.

This traditional American side dish is often served alongside roasted turkey, stuffing, and other holiday favorites. Its creamy sweet potato filling and lightly toasted marshmallows create a delicious combination that feels almost like dessert.

The addition of orange juice adds a subtle citrus brightness, while nutmeg brings warmth and depth to the sweet potato mixture.

Ingredients

29 oz (822 g) canned cut sweet potatoes, drained

4 large eggs

¾ cup (150 g) packed dark brown sugar

¼ cup (57 g) salted butter, melted

¼ cup (32 g) cornstarch

2 tablespoons (30 ml) orange juice

1½ teaspoons ground nutmeg

10 oz (283 g) mini marshmallows

Preparation Steps

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

Grease a 9 × 13-inch baking dish with butter.

Step 2: Prepare the Sweet Potatoes

Drain the canned sweet potatoes thoroughly.

Place them in a large mixing bowl.

Mash with a potato masher until mostly smooth.

For a silkier texture, use an electric mixer briefly.

Step 3: Add the Brown Sugar and Butter

Add the dark brown sugar and melted salted butter.

Mix until completely combined.

The brown sugar gives the casserole a rich, caramel-like sweetness.

Step 4: Add the Orange Juice and Nutmeg

Pour in the orange juice and sprinkle in the ground nutmeg.

Stir until evenly distributed.

Step 5: Add the Cornstarch

Sprinkle the cornstarch over the mixture.

Mix thoroughly until no dry lumps remain.

The cornstarch helps the filling thicken during baking.

Step 6: Add the Eggs

In a separate bowl, lightly beat the eggs.

Gradually add them to the sweet potato mixture, stirring until smooth.

Make sure the sweet potato mixture is not hot when adding the eggs.

Step 7: Transfer to the Baking Dish

Pour the mixture into the prepared casserole dish.

Spread evenly with a spatula.

Step 8: Bake the Sweet Potato Filling

Bake uncovered for approximately 35–45 minutes, until the center is set and no longer looks liquid.

Because the casserole contains eggs, the center should reach 160°F (71°C).

Step 9: Add the Marshmallows

Remove the casserole from the oven.

Sprinkle the mini marshmallows evenly over the surface.

Step 10: Toast the Topping

Return the casserole to the oven for approximately 5–8 minutes, until the marshmallows are puffed and lightly golden.

Watch carefully because marshmallows can brown very quickly.

Allow the casserole to rest for 10 minutes before serving.

Helpful Tips

Drain canned sweet potatoes thoroughly to avoid a watery filling.

Use room-temperature eggs for easier mixing.

For a less sweet casserole, reduce the brown sugar slightly.

Add marshmallows only after the sweet potato filling is cooked.

Conclusion

Grandma’s Sweet Potato Casserole is sweet, creamy, and topped with beautifully toasted marshmallows. Its comforting flavors and festive appearance make it a beloved Thanksgiving tradition.

5. Grandma’s Twice Baked Potato Casserole

Introduction

If you love loaded baked potatoes, this Twice Baked Potato Casserole brings all those delicious flavors together in one rich, comforting dish.

Made with fluffy russet potatoes, sour cream, butter, cheddar cheese, Colby-Jack cheese, crispy bacon, and green onions, this casserole is creamy, cheesy, and full of savory flavor.

It’s the perfect holiday side dish for anyone who enjoys classic loaded baked potatoes without the extra work of filling individual potato skins.

Ingredients

6 slices center-cut bacon

3 pounds (1.36 kg) russet potatoes

¾ cup (180 g) sour cream

¼ cup (60 ml) heavy cream

¼ cup (57 g) unsalted butter

2 teaspoons seasoned salt, or to taste

1 teaspoon garlic powder

½ teaspoon black pepper

1½ cups (approximately 170 g) shredded cheddar cheese

1½ cups (approximately 170 g) shredded Colby-Jack cheese

1 tablespoon chopped green onions

Preparation Steps

Step 1: Bake the Potatoes

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).

Wash the russet potatoes thoroughly and pat dry.

Pierce each potato several times with a fork.

Place on a baking sheet and bake for approximately 50–60 minutes, until fork-tender.

Step 2: Cook the Bacon

While the potatoes bake, cook the bacon in a skillet over medium heat until crispy.

Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate.

Once cooled, crumble into small pieces.

Step 3: Prepare the Potato Filling

Allow the baked potatoes to cool enough to handle.

Cut them in half and scoop the flesh into a large mixing bowl.

You may leave a small amount of skin in the mixture if you enjoy a more rustic texture.

Step 4: Add the Creamy Ingredients

Add the sour cream, heavy cream, and butter to the warm potatoes.

Mash gently until creamy but still slightly textured.

Avoid excessive mixing, which can make potatoes gluey.

Step 5: Add the Seasonings

Stir in the seasoned salt, garlic powder, and black pepper.

Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed.

Step 6: Add the Cheese and Bacon

Fold in half of the cheddar cheese, half of the Colby-Jack cheese, and most of the crumbled bacon.

Reserve the remaining cheese and bacon for the topping.

Step 7: Assemble the Casserole

Reduce the oven temperature to 375°F (190°C).

Grease a 9 × 13-inch baking dish.

Spread the potato mixture evenly in the dish.

Sprinkle the remaining cheddar and Colby-Jack cheese over the top.

Step 8: Bake

Bake uncovered for approximately 20–25 minutes, until heated through and the cheese is melted and bubbling.

Step 9: Add the Final Toppings

Remove from the oven and sprinkle with the reserved bacon and chopped green onions.

Allow to rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Helpful Tips

Use russet potatoes for a fluffy texture.

Avoid overmixing the potatoes.

Shred the cheese yourself for smoother melting.

Cook the bacon until crispy for the best contrast in texture.

Conclusion

Grandma’s Twice Baked Potato Casserole is rich, creamy, and packed with everything you love about loaded baked potatoes. It’s a satisfying holiday side dish that’s always welcome at the family table.

6. Grandma’s Cracker Barrel Hash Brown Casserole

Introduction

Inspired by the famous American restaurant-style hash brown casserole, this homemade version combines shredded potatoes, sour cream, cream of chicken soup, melted butter, onions, and sharp cheddar cheese.

The result is a creamy, cheesy potato casserole with a golden top and a comforting flavor that makes it perfect for Thanksgiving, Christmas breakfast, brunch, or family dinners.

It’s especially convenient because the ingredients can be mixed together in minutes before baking.

Ingredients

1 can (10.5 oz / 298 g) condensed cream of chicken soup

8 oz (226 g) sour cream

½ cup (approximately 75 g) finely chopped yellow onion

4 tablespoons (57 g) unsalted butter, melted

2 teaspoons salt, or to taste

½ teaspoon black pepper

2 cups (approximately 225 g) shredded sharp cheddar cheese

30 oz (850 g) frozen shredded hash browns, thawed and drained

Preparation Steps

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

Lightly grease a 9 × 13-inch baking dish.

Step 2: Prepare the Hash Browns

Thaw the frozen hash browns completely.

Place them in a colander and gently press out any excess moisture.

This step helps prevent the casserole from becoming watery.

Step 3: Mix the Creamy Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the condensed cream of chicken soup and sour cream.

Stir until smooth.

Step 4: Add the Butter and Onion

Pour in the melted butter and add the finely chopped yellow onion.

Mix until evenly combined.

Step 5: Season the Mixture

Add the salt and black pepper.

Stir thoroughly.

Because condensed soup and cheddar cheese already contain salt, you may want to begin with less salt and adjust according to taste.

Step 6: Add the Cheese

Stir in approximately 1½ cups of shredded sharp cheddar cheese.

Reserve the remaining ½ cup for the topping.

Step 7: Add the Hash Browns

Fold the thawed hash browns into the creamy mixture.

Stir gently until all the potatoes are evenly coated.

Step 8: Assemble the Casserole

Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish.

Spread evenly with a spatula.

Sprinkle the reserved cheddar cheese over the top.

Step 9: Bake Until Golden

Bake uncovered for approximately 45–55 minutes, until the casserole is hot and bubbling and the top is golden brown.

If the cheese begins browning too quickly, cover loosely with foil.

Step 10: Rest and Serve

Remove the casserole from the oven.

Allow it to rest for approximately 5–10 minutes before serving.

This helps the creamy filling settle and makes the casserole easier to portion.

Helpful Tips

Thaw and drain the hash browns completely.

Use sharp cheddar cheese for a stronger flavor.

Avoid adding too much salt before tasting the mixture.

For a crispier top, bake uncovered during the final minutes.

Conclusion

Grandma’s Cracker Barrel Hash Brown Casserole is creamy, cheesy, and wonderfully comforting. It’s an easy homemade side dish that tastes delicious with roasted meats, holiday dinners, and hearty family breakfasts.

Thanksgiving Casserole Preparation Tips

Preparing six casseroles for a Thanksgiving feast may seem like a lot of work, but a little planning can make the process much easier.

Prepare Ingredients Ahead of Time

Shred the cheeses, chop the onions, trim the green beans, and measure the seasonings the day before Thanksgiving.

Store all prepared ingredients in covered containers in the refrigerator.

Assemble Casseroles in Advance

The Funeral Potatoes, Green Bean Casserole without its crispy onion topping, and Hash Brown Casserole can generally be assembled the day before baking.

Keep them covered and refrigerated.

The Twice Baked Potato Casserole can also be prepared ahead, with the final cheese and bacon toppings added before baking.

Keep Toppings Separate

Store cornflakes, crispy fried onions, and other crunchy toppings separately until baking time.

This prevents them from absorbing moisture and becoming soggy.

Add marshmallows to Sweet Potato Casserole only near the end of baking.

Plan Your Oven Space

Most of these casseroles bake at temperatures between 350°F and 375°F.

Plan your cooking schedule so that dishes requiring similar temperatures can be baked together when oven space allows.

Remember that a crowded oven may require slightly longer baking times.

Reheat Safely

When reheating prepared casseroles, warm them until the center reaches 165°F (74°C).

Cover with aluminum foil if needed to prevent the tops from becoming too brown.

Refrigerate leftovers within 2 hours and use them within 3–4 days.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Make Thanksgiving Casseroles the Day Before?

Yes. Most of these casseroles can be partially or fully assembled the day before Thanksgiving.

Keep them covered in the refrigerator and bake according to the recipe instructions.

Add crispy toppings shortly before baking or serving.

Which Casserole Is Best for a Traditional Thanksgiving Dinner?

Green Bean Casserole, Sweet Potato Casserole, and Baked Mac and Cheese are especially popular Thanksgiving favorites.

However, all six recipes work beautifully as part of a holiday meal.

Can I Freeze These Casseroles?

Some casseroles freeze better than others.

Potato-based casseroles and macaroni and cheese can often be frozen, although their texture may change slightly after thawing.

Green Bean Casserole with a cream sauce may separate, and marshmallow-topped Sweet Potato Casserole is best frozen without the marshmallow topping.

How Many People Will These Recipes Serve?

Depending on portion size, each casserole generally provides approximately 8–12 side-dish servings.

Serving several casseroles together allows guests to enjoy smaller portions of multiple dishes.

What Main Dishes Pair Well with These Casseroles?

These casseroles pair wonderfully with roasted turkey, glazed ham, roast chicken, beef roast, and other traditional holiday main dishes.

Final Conclusion

Grandma’s Thanksgiving Casseroles celebrate everything that makes homemade holiday cooking so special: comforting flavors, simple ingredients, family traditions, and delicious dishes made to be shared.

From the rich, cheesy goodness of Baked Mac and Cheese to the crispy topping of Funeral Potatoes, the savory flavor of Green Bean Casserole, the sweet marshmallow finish of Sweet Potato Casserole, the loaded richness of Twice Baked Potato Casserole, and the creamy comfort of Hash Brown Casserole, each recipe brings something wonderful to the Thanksgiving table.

These six homemade casseroles are more than just side dishes. They’re the kinds of recipes that families look forward to every holiday season and remember long after the meal is over.