Turkey casserole is a fantastic way to use up leftover turkey, especially after a big holiday meal. This creamy, cheesy, and hearty dish is perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or any time you need a comforting meal. With simple ingredients and easy preparation, this turkey casserole is sure to become a favorite in your household.
Ingredients
- 3 cups cooked turkey, shredded or diced
- 3 cups penne or any medium pasta
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 8 ounces mushrooms, sliced
- 1 (10.5-ounce) can condensed cream of chicken soup
- 1 1/3 cups milk
- 1/2 teaspoon seasoned salt
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 cup shredded Havarti or Swiss cheese
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup frozen peas, thawed
- 1 cup crushed potato chips or breadcrumbs (optional, for topping)
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and set aside.
- Cook the Pasta: In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Prepare the Sauce: In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and sliced mushrooms, and cook for another 5 minutes until the mushrooms are tender.
- Make the Creamy Mixture: Stir in the condensed cream of chicken soup, milk, seasoned salt, and dried basil. Cook, stirring frequently, until the mixture is smooth and heated through. Add the shredded Havarti or Swiss cheese and stir until melted and well combined.
- Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta, creamy sauce, shredded turkey, and thawed peas. Mix until everything is evenly coated.
- Assemble the Casserole: Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the top. If using, sprinkle the crushed potato chips or breadcrumbs evenly over the cheese.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and the top is golden brown.
- Serve: Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy this comforting dish with a side salad or some crusty bread!
FAQs
Q: Can I make this casserole ahead of time? A: Yes, you can prepare the casserole up to a day in advance. Assemble the casserole, cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil, and store it in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to bake, remove the cover and bake as directed.
Q: Can I use a different type of pasta? A: Absolutely! While penne is a great choice, you can use any medium pasta like rotini, fusilli, or macaroni. Just be sure to cook the pasta until al dente before mixing it with the other ingredients.
Q: How do I store leftovers? A: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or reheat the entire casserole in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through.
Q: Can I freeze turkey casserole? A: Yes, you can freeze the casserole. Assemble the casserole but do not bake it. Cover tightly with aluminum foil and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and bake as directed.
Q: What can I substitute for cream of chicken soup? A: If you prefer not to use canned soup, you can make a homemade version by combining 2 tablespoons of butter, 2 tablespoons of flour, 1 cup of chicken broth, and 1 cup of milk. Cook until thickened and use in place of the canned soup.
Q: Can I add other vegetables to the casserole? A: Yes, this recipe is very versatile. You can add vegetables like carrots, bell peppers, or broccoli to the turkey mixture for added flavor and nutrition.
Q: Can I make this recipe gluten-free? A: Yes, you can make a gluten-free version by using gluten-free pasta and substituting the all-purpose flour in the homemade soup with a gluten-free flour blend. Also, use gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers for the topping.
This turkey casserole is a delicious and comforting dish that’s sure to become a family favorite. Its creamy texture and rich flavor make it a perfect addition to any meal. Enjoy!