The Most Popular Casserole From Every Decade
Updated: Jan. 14, 2022
Creamy casseroles weren't just for the 1950s. Take a trip through the decades with these favorite casserole recipes.
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1900s: Tuna Noodle Casserole
Tuna noodle casserole may sound like a 1950s staple, but it emerged at the start of the decade. In the early 1900s, new convenience foods like canned tuna were all the rage.
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Lasagna Casserole
While growing up, I always wanted this meal on my birthday. Mother made the sauce from scratch, but now I use store-bought spaghetti sauce to save time. Replace the ground beef with Italian sausage if you want more spice. —Deb Morrison, Skiatook, Oklahoma
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1920s: Fruit Bake
When alcohol was outlawed in the 1920s, we had to switch to a new treat: sugar. Sweet fruit cocktails gained popularity in both fancy restaurants and at home.
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1930s: Ground Beef Casserole
During the Great Depression, families had to change the way they cooked. Instead of splurging on sirloin beef, home chefs opted for ground chuck instead.
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1940s: Vegetable Casserole
As the U.S. entered the Second World War, food rations and tight budgets led to the rise of meatless meals. Home cooks simply walked out their doors to their victory gardens to gather ingredients for that night’s dinner.
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1950s: Green Bean Casserole
The 1950s was the age of the casserole. Dishes like tuna noodle casserole and green bean casserole were featured dinners every week.
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1960s: Scalloped Potatoes
In the 1960s, we were over simple casseroles and craved something a bit more exotic. Thanks to Julia Child’s influence, French cuisine went from a restaurant luxury to a dinner table regular.
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1970s: Hamburger Casserole
The 1970s were all about quick, easy dishes. Fun fondue and creamy Hamburger Helper took the place of stuffy fancy dining.
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Deluxe Pizza Casserole
This is the family favorite dish for special occasions, and we always make it for my granddaughter's birthday. Mushrooms are a wonderful addition if you like them. —Vickie Oldham, Dubuque, Iowa
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1990s: Mediterranean-Inspired Casserole
In the 1990s, health enthusiasts fell in love with the heart-healthy Mediterranean diet. Dishes featuring olive oil, fresh fish and sundried tomatoes ruled.
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Bacon Breakfast Casserole
This easy breakfast dish allows me to make a comforting family favorite that doesn't take a lot of prep. It's also great for big brunch gatherings. —Paula Lawson, Springfield, Ohio
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Parmesan Kale Casserole
I tried coming up with a creative way to use kale, and the result was a cheesy casserole. When my husband sampled it, he absolutely loved it. Bits of summer sausage add heartiness. —Diana Johnson, Auburn, WashingtonOriginally Published: August 20, 2019
