Are you craving a hearty, comforting meal that's both delicious and surprisingly easy to make? Then look no further! This turkey casserole recipe with stuffing is the perfect answer for busy weeknights or special occasions. It’s a fantastic way to use leftover turkey, transforming simple ingredients into a truly satisfying and flavorful dish. This recipe is perfect for those searching for quick dinner ideas, healthy meals, or simply delicious dishes made with homemade cooking. Let's dive in!
Ingredients:
- 3 cups cooked turkey, shredded or diced
- 1 cup bread stuffing (homemade or store-bought)
- 1 (10.75 ounce) can condensed cream of mushroom soup
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/4 cup chopped onion
- 1/4 cup chopped celery
- 1/4 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Instructions:
Step 1: Preparing the Vegetables
Start by finely chopping the onion and celery. Sauté them in a tablespoon of butter or oil until softened – about 5 minutes. This simple step adds a layer of depth to the flavor of your casserole.
Step 2: Combining the Ingredients
In a large bowl, combine the cooked and shredded turkey, sautéed vegetables, bread stuffing, cream of mushroom soup, milk, thyme, salt, and pepper. Mix everything thoroughly until well combined. Make sure the stuffing is evenly distributed throughout the mixture.
Step 3: Baking the Casserole
Pour the turkey and stuffing mixture into a greased 9x13 inch baking dish. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until heated through and the cheese is melted and bubbly. If you prefer a crispier top, broil for the last 2-3 minutes, keeping a close eye to prevent burning.
Step 4: Serving and Enjoying
Remove the casserole from the oven and let it stand for a few minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld and the casserole to set slightly. Serve hot and enjoy this comforting and flavorful meal!
Tips for the Best Turkey Casserole:
- Leftover magic: This recipe is a fantastic way to use leftover roasted turkey and stuffing.
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of your favorite hot sauce for a little kick.
- Vegetable variations: Feel free to add other vegetables like carrots, peas, or mushrooms.
- Cheese choices: Experiment with different cheeses like Monterey Jack, Gruyere, or a blend of your favorites.
- Make it creamy: For an extra creamy casserole, add a tablespoon or two of sour cream or cream cheese to the mixture.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
Calories: Approximately 350-400 Protein: 25-30g Fat: 15-20g Carbohydrates: 20-25g
This nutritional information is an estimate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients used.
Variations:
- Cranberry Turkey Casserole: Add 1/2 cup of cranberry sauce to the mixture for a sweet and tart twist.
- Wild Rice Casserole: Substitute wild rice for the bread stuffing for a heartier and more nutritious casserole.
- Creamy Tomato Turkey Casserole: Replace the cream of mushroom soup with cream of tomato soup for a different flavor profile.
This easy turkey casserole with stuffing is a crowd-pleaser guaranteed to satisfy your cravings for comfort food. It’s a versatile recipe that adapts easily to your preferences and available ingredients, making it a perfect addition to your repertoire of easy recipes and healthy meals. Enjoy!