Way back in the '50s and '60s, casseroles were as popular as hula hoops, American Bandstand, the Beatles and go-go boots. Not only were the dishes simple to prepare and comforting for families, but the heavy baking crocks of the past were replaced by lightweight Pyrex and CorningWare, making hearty, one-dish meals easy to handle.

Simply put, a casserole is any food that's cooked and served in the same dish, although most casseroles have multiple ingredients. Typical casseroles include a protein such as meat, fish or poultry paired with just about any vegetable you like. Common binders include pasta, flour, cheese, rice or potatoes. Stock, milk, wine and juice are often added to prevent dryness during baking. Toppings such as breadcrumbs or cheese are popular, adding eye appeal and texture.

Cheeseburger sliders
Kids love burgers and can eat them almost as fast as you can make them. This creative recipe turns out 24 sliders in one pan, so you can serve them and relax. Include some extra toppings on the side to inspire creativity. Get the recipe here.

Buffalo chicken lasagna
Everyone loves buffalo chicken wings, so this casserole is sure to have people scooping it up with big serving spoons. A spicy, homemade buffalo wing sauce adds to the excitement, and when guests find a creamy blue cheese sauce clinging to the spicy chicken layers, mayhem may ensue. Get the recipe here.

Pizza and mac and cheese casserole
Two of Americans' favorite foods are pizza and mac and cheese. Combining the two and adding Italian cheeses to the sauce is an undeniably winning combination. Up the flavor profile by adding your most beloved pizza toppings to the dish, such as black olives, peppers, anchovies and mushrooms. Get the recipe here.

Fritos chili pie casserole
If you don't live in the Southwest, you may have never had the pleasure of digging in to Fritos chili pie casserole. It's like tamale pie on steroids, full of Mexican flavors. The layers of Fritos guarantee every bite has the perfect crunch and that one-of-a-kind Frito flavor. Get the recipe here.

Easy meatball stroganoff bake
Stroganoff is a special dish typically reserved for special occasions, but this easy meatball version will satisfy the craving for beef, creamy sauce and pasta in half the time. A combination of sour cream, cream cheese and cream of mushroom soup guarantees a satin texture. If time is short, frozen meatballs work fine. Get the recipe here.

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