With fresh-picked produce and a slimmed-down profile, these light summer casseroles give you all the comfort you want without the fat and calories.
28 Light Casseroles to Love This Summer
Updated on Feb. 19, 2024
Texan Ranch Chicken Casserole
Every time I serve this creamy chicken ranch casserole, it gets rave reviews. The recipe was passed down to me and is so good! It’s really easy to make, freezes well and has just a touch of heat. If your family likes more, add some jalapenos! —Kendra Doss, Smithville, Missouri
1/28
2/28
Zucchini Lasagna
Total Time
1 hour
Servings
6 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
We plant zucchini every year and always seem to have more than we can use! This hearty zucchini lasagna is a delicious way to use an abundant crop. —Charlotte McDaniel, Williamsville, Illinois
Nutrition Facts:
1 serving: 273 calories, 13g fat (5g saturated fat), 92mg cholesterol, 725mg sodium, 14g carbohydrate (6g sugars, 3g fiber), 27g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 3 lean meat, 1 starch, 1 fat.
3/28
Slow-Cooker Frittata Provencal
Total Time
3 hours 30 min
Servings
6 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
This recipe means that a delectable dinner is ready when I walk in the door from work. The meatless slow-cooker meal also makes an elegant brunch for lazy weekends. —Connie Eaton, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
Nutrition Facts:
1 serving: 245 calories, 14g fat (5g saturated fat), 385mg cholesterol, 338mg sodium, 12g carbohydrate (4g sugars, 2g fiber), 15g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 2 medium-fat meat, 1 starch, 1/2 fat.
4/28
Mustard Ham Strata
Total Time
1 hour
Servings
12 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
I had this at a bed-and-breakfast years ago. The owners were kind enough to give me the recipe, and I've made it many times since. —Dolores Zornow, Poynette, Wisconsin
Nutrition Facts:
1 piece: 198 calories, 11g fat (5g saturated fat), 153mg cholesterol, 648mg sodium, 11g carbohydrate (4g sugars, 1g fiber), 13g protein. Diabetic exchanges: 2 medium-fat meat, 1 starch.
5/28
Mixed Berry French Toast Bake
Total Time
1 hour 5 min
Servings
8 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
I just love this recipe! It's perfect for fuss-free holiday breakfasts or laid-back company. It’s scrumptious and so easy to put together the night before. —Amy Berry, Poland, Maine
Nutrition Facts:
1 serving: 310 calories, 8g fat (3g saturated fat), 148mg cholesterol, 517mg sodium, 46g carbohydrate (17g sugars, 3g fiber), 13g protein.
6/28
Pork and Rice
Total Time
40 min
Servings
4 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
My family wasn't fond of pork roast until I used it in this yummy casserole. —Betty Unrau, MacGregor, Manitoba
Nutrition Facts:
1 cup: 304 calories, 12g fat (6g saturated fat), 71mg cholesterol, 756mg sodium, 29g carbohydrate (5g sugars, 3g fiber), 21g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 3 lean meat, 2 starch, 1-1/2 fat.
7/28
Chicken Broccoli Casserole
Total Time
45 min
Servings
6 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
This delicious chicken and broccoli casserole recipe is a twist on chicken divan that came from an old boss. It’s quick, satisfying comfort food. —Jennifer Schlachter, Big Rock, Illinois
Nutrition Facts:
1-1/3 cups: 317 calories, 13g fat (5g saturated fat), 62mg cholesterol, 899mg sodium, 19g carbohydrate (4g sugars, 1g fiber), 21g protein.
8/28
Ham and Cheese Breakfast Casserole
Total Time
4 hours 20 min
Servings
12 servings.
From the Recipe Creator:
Easy and cheesy, my go-to casserole for action-packed mornings has made many appearances at holiday breakfasts, potlucks and even my daughter's college apartment to feed her hungry roommates. —Patty Bernhard, Greenville, Ohio
Nutrition Facts:
1 serving: 324 calories, 19g fat (9g saturated fat), 239mg cholesterol, 822mg sodium, 17g carbohydrate (3g sugars, 2g fiber), 22g protein.
9/28
Fiery Stuffed Poblanos
Total Time
1 hour 10 min
Servings
8 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
I love Southwest-inspired cuisine, but the dishes are often unhealthy. As a dietitian, I try to come up with nutritious twists on recipes, which is how my stuffed peppers dish was born. —Amber Massey, Argyle, Texas
Nutrition Facts:
1 stuffed pepper: 223 calories, 5g fat (2g saturated fat), 15mg cholesterol, 579mg sodium, 32g carbohydrate (9g sugars, 7g fiber), 11g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 2 vegetable, 1 starch, 1 lean meat, 1 fat.
10/28
Black Bean & White Cheddar Frittata
Total Time
35 min
Servings
6 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
This is one of my favorite comfort foods for breakfast or even a quick dinner. I like to make it with lime salsa. But if you're looking for something with more kick, use hot salsa or add some chipotle pepper. —Aysha Schurman, Ammon, Idaho
Nutrition Facts:
1 wedge (calculated without toppings): 183 calories, 10g fat (4g saturated fat), 196mg cholesterol, 378mg sodium, 9g carbohydrate (2g sugars, 2g fiber), 13g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 2 medium-fat meat, 1/2 starch, 1/2 fat.
11/28
Chili Mac Casserole
Total Time
45 min
Servings
10 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
This cheesy casserole uses several of my family's favorite ingredients, including macaroni, kidney beans, tomatoes and cheese. Just add a leafy salad for a complete meal. —Marlene Wilson, Rolla, North Dakota
Nutrition Facts:
1 cup: 313 calories, 13g fat (6g saturated fat), 69mg cholesterol, 758mg sodium, 22g carbohydrate (6g sugars, 5g fiber), 30g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 3 lean meat, 1-1/2 starch, 1 fat.
12/28
Broccoli Tuna Casserole
Total Time
1 hour 35 min
Servings
8 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
When I was in the Navy, a co-worker's wife shared this recipe with me. I’ve tweaked it over the years, but it still brings back memories of my family away from home. —Yvonne Cook, Haskins, Ohio
Nutrition Facts:
1-1/4 cups: 271 calories, 8g fat (4g saturated fat), 38mg cholesterol, 601mg sodium, 30g carbohydrate (4g sugars, 4g fiber), 22g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 2 starch, 2 lean meat, 1/2 fat.
13/28
Cornbread-Topped Frijoles
Total Time
3 hours 20 min
Servings
8 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
My family often requests this economical slow-cooker favorite. It's loaded with fresh southwestern flavors. One batch makes eight servings—but they never last long at our house! —Suzanne Caldwell, Artesia, New Mexico
Nutrition Facts:
1 serving: 367 calories, 9g fat (1g saturated fat), 54mg cholesterol, 708mg sodium, 59g carbohydrate (10g sugars, 9g fiber), 14g protein.
14/28
Lemon Chicken and Rice
Total Time
1 hour 10 min
Servings
2 casseroles (4 servings each)
From the Recipe Creator:
I couldn’t say who loves this recipe best, because it gets raves every time I serve it! Occasionally I even get a phone call or email from a friend requesting the recipe, and it's certainly a favorite for my grown children and 15 grandchildren. —Maryalice Wood, Langley, British Columbia
Nutrition Facts:
2 chicken thighs with 3/4 cup rice mixture: 624 calories, 26g fat (6g saturated fat), 173mg cholesterol, 754mg sodium, 41g carbohydrate (1g sugars, 1g fiber), 53g protein.
15/28
Mexican Turkey Skillet
Total Time
50 min
Servings
8 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
This family-friendly main dish with turkey, black beans and vegetables has a rich Mexican flavor that may seem indulgent, but it’s delightfully light. Created by our Test Kitchen, it cooks in one skillet, so it’s a snap to clean up for a weeknight supper.
Nutrition Facts:
1 cup: 254 calories, 9g fat (3g saturated fat), 55mg cholesterol, 616mg sodium, 25g carbohydrate (4g sugars, 4g fiber), 19g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 2 lean meat, 1 starch, 1 vegetable, 1/2 fat.
16/28
Frittata Florentine
Total Time
30 min
Servings
4 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
My family is all about brunchy meals like this gorgeous Italian omelet. Lucky for us, it’s loaded with ingredients we tend to have at the ready. —Jenny Flake, Newport Beach, California
Nutrition Facts:
1 piece: 176 calories, 11g fat (4g saturated fat), 174mg cholesterol, 451mg sodium, 4g carbohydrate (2g sugars, 1g fiber), 15g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 2 medium-fat meat, 1/2 fat.
17/28
Makeover Slow-Cooked Mac ‘n’ Cheese
Total Time
2 hours 25 min
Servings
9 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
This recipe is a clear example of comfort food at its finest; it's rich, hearty and extra cheesy. And because it's made in the slow cooker, it's also extremely easy. —Shelby Molina, Whitewater, Wisconsin
Nutrition Facts:
3/4 cup: 300 calories, 12g fat (9g saturated fat), 45mg cholesterol, 647mg sodium, 29g carbohydrate (9g sugars, 1g fiber), 19g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 2 starch, 2 medium-fat meat.
18/28
Chipotle Turkey Chilaquiles
Total Time
55 min
Servings
8 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
As a frugal mom, I try to use leftovers in a way that provides good nutrition. This recipe does just that and it’s also a great way for my children to learn to enjoy the flavors of their Mexican heritage. —Aimee Day, Ferndale, Washington
Nutrition Facts:
1-1/2 cups (calculated without rice and sour cream): 364 calories, 8g fat (3g saturated fat), 56mg cholesterol, 766mg sodium, 44g carbohydrate (3g sugars, 7g fiber), 29g protein.
19/28
Pastry-Topped Turkey Casserole
Total Time
1 hour 5 min
Servings
6 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
My friends tell me this is the best potpie they've ever had. Hearty and full-flavored, my comforting classic never lets on that it’s also low in fat and a good source of fiber. —Agnes Ward, Stratford, Ontario
Nutrition Facts:
1 serving: 280 calories, 4g fat (1g saturated fat), 39mg cholesterol, 696mg sodium, 38g carbohydrate (9g sugars, 6g fiber), 23g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 2 starch, 2 lean meat, 1 vegetable, 1/2 fat.
20/28
Beans, Bacon & Tomato Bake
Total Time
45 min
Servings
12 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
Bacon, tomatoes and lima beans combine for a nutrient-packed side dish that makes the perfect accompaniment to turkey. —Karen Kumpulainen, Forest City, North Carolina
Nutrition Facts:
2/3 cup: 230 calories, 8g fat (3g saturated fat), 12mg cholesterol, 666mg sodium, 30g carbohydrate (6g sugars, 9g fiber), 11g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 2 starch, 1-1/2 fat.
21/28
Italian Garden Frittata
Total Time
30 min
Servings
4 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
I like to serve this pretty frittata with melon wedges for a delicious breakfast or brunch. —Sally Maloney, Dallas, Georgia
Nutrition Facts:
1 piece: 183 calories, 11g fat (5g saturated fat), 228mg cholesterol, 655mg sodium, 4g carbohydrate (3g sugars, 1g fiber), 18g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 2 medium-fat meat, 1 vegetable.
22/28
Slow-Cooker Stuffed Peppers
Total Time
3 hours 15 min
Servings
4 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
My favorite kitchen appliance is the slow cooker, and I use mine more than anyone else I know. It does a great job with this good-for-you dish. —Michelle Gurnsey, Lincoln, Nebraska
Nutrition Facts:
1 stuffed pepper: 317 calories, 10g fat (5g saturated fat), 30mg cholesterol, 565mg sodium, 43g carbohydrate (6g sugars, 8g fiber), 15g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 2 starch, 2 vegetable, 2 lean meat, 1 fat.
23/28
Makeover Shrimp Rice Casserole
Total Time
1 hour 10 min
Servings
6 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
I am fond of this lighter version of my shrimp casserole. It has only half the calories and sodium and less fat than my original recipe. —Marie Roberts, Lake Charles, Louisiana
Nutrition Facts:
1 cup: 318 calories, 10g fat (6g saturated fat), 137mg cholesterol, 621mg sodium, 35g carbohydrate (7g sugars, 4g fiber), 24g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 3 lean meat, 2 starch, 1 vegetable, 1 fat.
24/28
Southwest Vegetarian Bake
Total Time
1 hour 15 min
Servings
8 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
This veggie-packed casserole hits the spot on chilly nights. It's a healthy canned vegetable recipe that's perfect any time I have a taste for Mexican food with all the fixings. —Patricia Gale, Monticello, Illinois
Nutrition Facts:
1 cup: 285 calories, 10g fat (5g saturated fat), 21mg cholesterol, 759mg sodium, 36g carbohydrate (6g sugars, 4g fiber), 15g protein. Diabetic exchanges: 2 starch, 2 vegetable, 1 lean meat, 1 fat.
25/28
Artichoke Ratatouille Chicken
Total Time
1 hour 25 min
Servings
6 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
I loaded all the fresh produce I could find into this speedy chicken dinner. Serve it on its own or over pasta. —Judy Armstrong, Prairieville, Louisiana
Nutrition Facts:
1-2/3 cups: 252 calories, 9g fat (2g saturated fat), 67mg cholesterol, 468mg sodium, 15g carbohydrate (4g sugars, 4g fiber), 28g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 3 lean meat, 1 starch, 1 fat.
26/28
Sweet Corn and Potato Gratin
Total Time
1 hour 15 min
Servings
8 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
This tasty potato gratin side dish combines great garlic and onion flavor, and kids love the nice crispy topping, too! —Jennifer Olson, Pleasanton, California
Nutrition Facts:
3/4 cup: 213 calories, 6g fat (3g saturated fat), 14mg cholesterol, 452mg sodium, 37g carbohydrate (6g sugars, 3g fiber), 5g protein.
27/28
Asparagus Frittata
Total Time
25 min
Servings
4 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
You would never guess that egg substitute is used in this fun variation on the classic asparagus frittata. —James Bates, Hermiston, Oregon
Nutrition Facts:
1 piece: 134 calories, 6g fat (2g saturated fat), 10mg cholesterol, 480mg sodium, 6g carbohydrate (3g sugars, 1g fiber), 15g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 2 lean meat, 1 vegetable, 1/2 fat.
28/28
Chicken Brunch Bake
Total Time
1 hour 15 min
Servings
8 servings
From the Recipe Creator:
Chunks of tender chicken add heartiness to this appealing brunch casserole. This was my son's favorite hot lunch meal from high school. —DeLee Jochum, Dubuque, Iowa
Nutrition Facts:
1 serving: 233 calories, 6g fat (2g saturated fat), 62mg cholesterol, 458mg sodium, 18g carbohydrate (2g sugars, 3g fiber), 27g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 3 lean meat, 1 starch.
