Cheap Vegan Casserole Recipes for Easy Weeknight Meals

When it comes to hearty, comforting meals that don’t break the bank, it’s hard to beat a vegan casserole. Not only are casseroles supremely versatile and easy to prepare, but they’re also the perfect way to use up pantry staples and leftover veggies.

Whether you’re looking to save money, eat healthier, or just crave that classic baked goodness, cheap vegan casserole recipes deliver on all fronts. Imagine layers of wholesome grains, beans, and vegetables bubbling in a rich, flavorful sauce, all crowned with a crispy topping—no fancy ingredients or complicated steps required.

In this post, I’ll share three of my favorite cheap vegan casserole recipes that are big on flavor, nutrition, and comfort—without the hefty price tag. These meals are perfect for meal prep, family dinners, or potlucks.

Let’s dive into the world of affordable, plant-based casseroles you’ll want to make again and again!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Budget-Friendly: Each recipe features inexpensive, everyday ingredients like beans, rice, potatoes, and frozen veggies.
• Easy to Make: Minimal chopping and simple steps mean anyone can whip these up—even on busy weeknights.
• Hearty & Filling: Thanks to plant-based proteins and whole grains, these casseroles are satisfying even for the biggest appetites.
• Great for Meal Prep: Make a big batch and enjoy leftovers for lunch or dinner throughout the week.
• Family-Friendly: Mild flavors and customizable toppings make these casseroles a hit with kids and adults alike.
• Versatile: Mix and match grains, veggies, and spices to use up what you have on hand.

Cheap Vegan Casserole Recipes

Classic Vegan Rice & Bean Casserole

Ingredients

Equipment

• Large skillet or sauté pan
• 9×13-inch casserole dish
• Mixing spoon
• Cutting board & knife
• Measuring cups/spoons
• Oven mitts

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Sauté the vegetables: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add diced onion and bell pepper and cook for 3-4 minutes until softened. Stir in minced garlic, chili powder, and cumin, and cook for another minute.
3. Combine ingredients: Add black beans, corn, and diced tomatoes (with liquid) to the skillet. Stir well to combine and let simmer for 5 minutes.
4. Mix with rice: Turn off the heat and stir in cooked rice. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Assemble the casserole: Pour the mixture into a lightly greased 9×13-inch casserole dish. Spread evenly. Sprinkle vegan cheese on top, if using.
6. Bake: Bake uncovered for 20-25 minutes, until heated through and the top is slightly golden. If desired, broil for 2-3 minutes for a crispier top.
7. Serve: Let cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy warm, optionally topped with sliced avocado or fresh cilantro.

Tips & Variations

• Swap in pinto beans or kidney beans for black beans.
• Use cooked quinoa instead of rice for extra protein.
• Add chopped spinach, kale, or zucchini for more veggies.
• Top with crushed tortilla chips before baking for extra crunch.
• Spice it up with jalapeño or hot sauce.
• For a creamy texture, stir in 1/2 cup of vegan sour cream before baking.

“Casseroles are the perfect canvas for creativity. Don’t be afraid to use up what you have on hand!”

Nutrition Facts

Nutrition values are estimates and may vary depending on exact ingredients used.

Serving Suggestions

• Garnish with fresh cilantro and a squeeze of lime juice.
• Serve with a side salad or steamed broccoli.
• Pair with a glass of homemade juice for a bright, healthy meal.
• Perfect for potlucks or as a taco stuffing for a twist!

Creamy Vegan Potato & Broccoli Casserole

Ingredients

Equipment

• Large saucepan
• Whisk
• 9×13-inch casserole dish
• Sharp knife & cutting board
• Mixing bowl
• Aluminum foil

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly grease your casserole dish.
2. Prepare the sauce: In a saucepan, heat olive oil over medium. Stir in flour to form a roux. Cook for 1-2 minutes, then gradually whisk in plant milk. Add nutritional yeast, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Whisk until thick and creamy (about 4-5 minutes). Remove from heat.
3. Layer the veggies: Spread half of the sliced potatoes on the bottom of the dish. Add half the broccoli, carrot, and onion. Pour over half the sauce. Repeat with remaining potatoes, veggies, and sauce.
4. Add topping: Sprinkle bread crumbs evenly on top for crunch.
5. Bake: Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove foil and bake another 20-25 minutes until potatoes are tender and top is golden.
6. Cool & serve: Allow to cool for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.

Tips & Variations

• Swap in cauliflower or green beans for broccoli.
• Add a pinch of smoked paprika for depth.
• Use gluten-free flour and bread crumbs if needed.
• Top with vegan parmesan or a sprinkle of paprika before baking for extra flavor.

“A creamy, dreamy casserole that’s wallet-friendly and crowd-pleasing!”

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

• Serve alongside a crisp green salad drizzled with lemon juice.
• Perfect with a side of lemon crackers or warm bread.
• Pair with roasted chickpeas for extra protein.
• Try as a filling for baked bell peppers!

Affordable Vegan Lentil & Vegetable Bake

Ingredients

Equipment

• Large skillet
• 9×9-inch baking dish
• Mixing spoon
• Knife & cutting board
• Measuring cups/spoons

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Sauté aromatics: Heat olive oil in a skillet. Add onion and cook until translucent. Stir in garlic, thyme, and paprika.
3. Add veggies and lentils: Stir in potatoes, frozen mixed vegetables, and lentils. Cook for 3-5 minutes.
4. Add tomatoes and broth: Pour in diced tomatoes (with juice) and vegetable broth. Season with salt and pepper. Bring to a simmer for 5 minutes.
5. Transfer and top: Pour mixture into the baking dish. Sprinkle with bread crumbs or crushed crackers if desired.
6. Bake: Bake uncovered for 25-30 minutes, until golden and bubbling.
7. Serve: Cool slightly before serving. Enjoy as a main or hearty side.

Tips & Variations

• Use sweet potatoes instead of regular potatoes for a different flavor.
• Add chopped spinach or kale for extra greens.
• Top with your favorite vegan cheese shreds before baking.
• Try making this into individual servings in ramekins for meal prep.

“Lentils are a budget cook’s best friend—packed with protein, fiber, and flavor.”

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

• Serve with a dollop of vegan yogurt or a sprinkle of fresh parsley.
• Pair with homemade bread or toast for a more filling meal.
• Delicious with a side of simple low FODMAP appetizers if you’re cooking for a crowd.

Conclusion

Cheap vegan casserole recipes prove that you don’t have to sacrifice flavor, variety, or comfort for affordability. With just a handful of pantry staples and some creativity, you can whip up nourishing, crowd-pleasing meals that leave everyone satisfied.

Whether you love beans and rice, crave a creamy potato bake, or want the earthy goodness of lentils and veggies, these casseroles have you covered.

Plus, casseroles are perfect for meal prep and leftovers—simply reheat and enjoy! For more plant-based meal inspiration, check out our Lion’S Mane Mushroom Crumble Recipes or try a vibrant Harvest Hash Recipe for your next cozy dinner.

Happy cooking, and remember: eating well can be easy, delicious, and budget-friendly!

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