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    Home » Recipe Roundups

    This Is How I Make My Dinner Cook Itself

    By Emmeline Kemperyd updated October 28, 2025 · Published October 30, 2025 · Leave a Comment

    Ever wish dinner could just make itself? That's pretty much what these recipes do. With minimal prep and maximum flavor, these casseroles are all about letting the oven do the work for you. Most are true dump-and-bake dishes-just mix, bake, and eat-while a few need a quick step like cooking chicken first. Either way, these are the kind of effortless, comforting meals that practically cook themselves while you get on with your evening.

    Cheesy Steak Pasta Casserole

    Steak pasta casserole.
    Photo credit: Emmeline Kemperyd.

    This dish features a creamy steak and mushroom pasta paired with a cheesy casserole. It's a comforting yet classy dinner that you can whip up in just 45 minutes. Using an oven-safe skillet means you can prepare everything in one pan, making cleanup a breeze.

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    Gorgonzola Tortellini Casserole

    Gorgonzola tortellini casserole.
    Photo credit: Emmeline Kemperyd.

    This tortellini casserole is perfect for anyone who loves cheese and pasta. It combines two delicious cheeses, including a zesty Gorgonzola, and adds a nice crunch with walnuts. Ready in under 40 minutes, it's a simple and satisfying meal.

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    Walking Taco Casserole

    Walking taco casserole.
    Photo credit: Emmeline Kemperyd.

    This casserole combines all the delicious flavors of tacos into one easy dish. It's packed with ground beef, salsa, and plenty of cheese, making it a hearty meal. Perfect for a potluck or a simple weeknight dinner, this dish is sure to please everyone at the table.

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    Chicken Broccoli Pasta Bake

    Chicken pasta bake.
    Photo credit: always use butter.

    This dish features plenty of chicken and broccoli, creating a hearty meal that will definitely provide some leftovers. It's a satisfying option that combines protein and veggies, making it a great choice for dinner. With this recipe, you can enjoy a filling meal without spending too much time in the kitchen.

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    Chicken Sun-Dried Tomato Pasta Bake

    sun-dried tomato pasta bake.
    Photo credit: always use butter.

    Cheesy chicken and pasta come together with sun-dried tomatoes and spinach for a hearty meal that's simple to prepare. This dish is perfect for busy nights when you want something satisfying without spending too much time in the kitchen. It's a comforting option that everyone will enjoy.

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    No-Boil Ravioli Casserole

    This cheesy ravioli casserole is one of the simplest dishes you can make. With just four simple ingredients and store-bought shortcuts, you can prep this dish in 5 minutes, and eat in under 40!
    Photo credit: Emmeline Kemperyd.

    This dish is incredibly easy to prepare. With just four basic ingredients and some ready-made options, you can have it ready in about 5 minutes and on the table in under 40. It's perfect for busy nights when you want a quick and satisfying meal.

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    Buffalo Chicken Pasta Bake

    Buffalo chicken pasta bake.
    Photo credit: always use butter.

    Cheesy Buffalo Chicken Pasta Bake is a quick and easy dish that comes together in no time. With just under 10 minutes of prep and ready in less than an hour, it's packed with spicy buffalo sauce and sneaky spinach, making it both tasty and satisfying. This is a great meal for busy weeknights when you want something comforting without spending too much time in the kitchen.

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    Cheesy Tortellini Casserole

    Cheesy Tortellini Casserole
    Photo credit: always use butter.

    This dish is simple, cheesy, and really tasty, making it a great choice for a cozy meal. It's the kind of food that feels like a warm hug after a long day. Perfect for when you want something satisfying without spending too much time in the kitchen.

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    About Emmeline Kemperyd

    Emmeline Kemperyd is a writer, food blogger, recipe creator and food photographer and the founder of alwaysusebutter.com. She has 20+ years experience creating and simplifying recipes so they taste good, and are quick, easy, and approachable. She is a regular contributor to MSN and her work has been featured by The Guardian, Well+Good, Vulture, SheKnows, Good Men Project, and The Feed Feed, among others.

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    Hi, I'm Emmeline! I love tasty food, but I'm always in a hurry. And I have the quick and easy recipes to prove it!

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