Turkey noodle casserole is a delightful and comforting dish that combines tender turkey, hearty noodles, and a creamy, cheesy sauce. This casserole is perfect for using up leftover turkey from holiday meals, but it’s also great with rotisserie chicken or even ham. It’s easy to make, versatile, and sure to be a hit with the whole family. Let’s dive into this delicious recipe that will surely become a favorite in your home.
Ingredients
- 8 oz egg noodles
- 2 cups cooked turkey, shredded or diced
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup frozen peas (optional)
- 1 can (10.5 oz) condensed cream of mushroom soup
- 1 cup milk
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup crushed Ritz crackers or breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup butter, melted
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Cook the Noodles: In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the egg noodles according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Prepare the Sauce: In a large skillet, sauté the chopped onion and minced garlic over medium heat until softened. Stir in the condensed cream of mushroom soup, milk, sour cream, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix until well combined and heated through.
- Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the cooked noodles, shredded turkey, and frozen peas (if using). Pour the sauce over the mixture and stir until everything is evenly coated.
- Assemble the Casserole: Transfer the mixture to a greased 9×13 inch baking dish. Spread it out evenly. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese on top.
- Prepare the Topping: In a small bowl, mix the crushed Ritz crackers or breadcrumbs with the melted butter until well combined. Sprinkle the topping evenly over the casserole.
- Bake: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and the topping is golden brown.
- Serve: Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley.
Conclusion
This turkey noodle casserole is a comforting and delicious dish that brings together the best of creamy, cheesy goodness with the savory flavor of turkey. It’s perfect for feeding a crowd or enjoying as leftovers. Serve it with a side of garlic bread and a fresh green salad for a complete meal.
FAQs
1. Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the casserole up to a day in advance. Just cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and store it in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to bake, remove it from the fridge and let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before baking as directed.
2. Can I freeze turkey noodle casserole?
Absolutely! After assembling, cover it tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. To bake, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and then bake as directed.
3. What can I serve with turkey noodle casserole?
This casserole pairs well with a variety of sides such as a fresh green salad, garlic bread, or steamed vegetables. You can also serve it with a side of roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
4. Can I use a different type of meat?
Certainly! This recipe is very versatile. You can use cooked chicken, ham, or even a meat substitute as a substitute for turkey. Just make sure to cook and crumble the meat before adding it to the casserole.
5. How can I make this casserole spicier?
To add more heat, you can include red pepper flakes or a few dashes of hot sauce in the sauce mixture. Using a spicy cheese or adding extra chili powder can also increase the heat level.
6. Can I add other ingredients to this casserole?
Yes, feel free to add ingredients like diced bell peppers, mushrooms, or different types of cheese to suit your taste preferences. You can also mix in some cooked bacon bits for extra flavor.
Enjoy making and sharing this delicious turkey noodle casserole with your friends and family! 🦃🍜🧀
Feel free to ask if you need more recipes or have any other questions!