From creamy salmon potato gratin to kabocha gratin to savory curry doria, these Japanese casseroles are the coziest recipes you’ll ever need! They are versatile, easily make-ahead, and ideal for any occasion.
Casseroles are the ultimate comfort food, especially when there is a chill in the air. In Japan, casseroles are a big thing too!
Filled with all kinds of delicious ingredients, from vegetables to savory meat sauce, and topped with a golden layer that bakes up like a fluffy dream, casseroles are the type of food that everyone in the family devours. These homey Japanese-Western dishes are not only a favorite among home cooks, but they are also popular on the menus of Yoshoku restaurants and cafes in Japan.
The two popular Japanese casserole dishes are Gratin (グラタン) and Doria (ドリア), a Japanese invention of rice gratin. They can be prepped ahead of time and are perfect for weeknight dinners. We love that they are impressive enough to be served at holiday tables too.
Here, we’ve gathered our favorite Japanese casserole recipes that are worthy to feed a crowd. Enjoy!
Cozy Japanese Casserole Recipes
1. Macaroni Gratin
So amazingly rich, creamy, and buttery, this Macaroni Gratin with homemade white sauce is true comfort food. It includes shrimp, sweet onion, and mushrooms, but you can easily swap in other ingredients you have in your kitchen. The golden, crunchy panko topping makes everything better!
For a vegetarian/vegan version, try it with squash or sweet potato.
2. Salmon Potato Gratin
This Creamy Salmon Potato Gratin takes classic comfort food up a notch with a few simple upgrades: all-purpose salmon flakes and a crunchy panko-crusted topping. It’s homey yet thoroughly indulgent.
3. Kabocha Gratin
This vegetarian-friendly casserole recipe makes an excellent side dish or a complete meal on its own. You’ll love the creamy texture and sweetness of Kabocha. The bright, vivid orange flesh also gives the gratin an extra holiday touch.
4. Curry Doria (Rice Gratin)
Japanese rice gratin topped with flavorful curry meat sauce and cheese, baked to perfection in a casserole. It screams comfort food! If you have leftover rice in the freezer, you can assemble the rice casserole even quicker. Swap the meat with minced mushroom and tofu (or jackfruit) for a vegetarian option.
5. Seafood Doria
Another impressive yet simple Japanese rice gratin dish, topped with your choice of seafood and cheese. Use frozen seafood for minimal prep.
6. Potato Leek Gratin
This simple casserole is loaded with creamy sliced potatoes, savory leeks, and mounds of shredded cheese. Bake until the top is glossy and deeply golden brown. Feel free to make extra for leftovers!
7. Meat Doria
Savory meat sauce over steamed rice, covered with melted cheese and baked in the oven—this is a comfort dish from childhood for many Japanese. If you happen to cook a big batch of ground beef for tacos, definitely save some for this casserole recipe.