Easy Kidney-Friendly Casseroles

Casseroles are the go-to dish for gatherings, special events, and easy meals. They are simple to prepare and reheat well, making them perfect for busy weeks. Going to dialysis 3 times a week, multiple appointments, or spending your day at work means you may not have as much free time.  making a homemade meal each day may be difficult. Having a few kidney-friendly casserole recipes can help.

Casserole Dishes

Casseroles are cooked using a baking or casserole dish and baked slowly in the oven for about 30-60 minutes depending on the recipe. Casserole dishes are made with high sides and can be rectangular, ovular, or circular. They are typically glass or ceramic and come with a lid. Prices vary and start as low as $20, but can be as high as $95. Average price is about $35-$40.

Simplify with Casseroles

Casseroles are versatile and can be consumed as an appetizer, side dish, full meal, or even dessert or breakfast. Like anything else, the nutrition content of casseroles depends on the ingredients. Some casseroles are heavy and indulgent, while others are filled with vegetables, making them lighter and lower in calories.

What makes casseroles so simple? Even though casseroles can be eaten as sides, they are usually a one-dish meal. So, no need to worry about preparing additional sides or entrees, it is all baked into one dish! The casserole dish also doubles as a serving dish, which means fewer dishes are used resulting in faster cleanup.

Casserole Concerns

Many casserole recipes call for higher sodium, phosphorus and potassium ingredients like canned cream soup, cheese, potatoes, tomato sauce and high sodium sauces and seasoning mixes. Fortunately DaVita.com has casserole recipes with kidney-friendly recipes and the nutrients of concern..

Casserole Safety Tips

People with kidney disease and on dialysis may be at higher risk for food-borne illness. Stay safe with these food safety tips:

1. Refrigerate leftovers within 2 hours after cooking to avoid bacterial growth.
2. Store leftovers in airtight packages or containers in the refrigerator. Keeping air out will retain moisture and help prevent bacteria from entering the food.
3. Leftovers can be safely reheated for the next 3-4 days.
4. If you made too much, leftovers can safely be frozen for up to 3-4 months.
5. When thawing leftovers, make sure to do so safely. You can put leftovers in the refrigerator to thaw or run under cold water. When thawing under cold water make sure food is in a sealed container to prevent water and bacteria from entering the food. Leftovers can also be thawed in the microwave, on the stove, or in the oven. Make sure internal temperature reaches 165° F.

For casserole recipes read Easy Kidney-Friendly Casseroles or search for casseroles on DaVita.com.

Resources

Amazon. Casserole Dish. 1996-2018. Accessed March 16, 2018.

Leftovers and Food Safety. United States Department of Agriculture.  June 15, 2013. Accessed March 16, 2018.

This article is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for medical advice or treatment. Consult your physician and dietitian regarding your specific diagnosis, treatment, diet and health questions.