Turkey Broccoli Casserole: 1 Impressive Dish

Turkey Broccoli Casserole Impress has been my secret weapon for those nights when I want to serve something truly special without spending hours in the kitchen. I remember one holiday season when I was tasked with bringing a dish to a potluck, and I felt so much pressure to impress. I whipped up this amazing turkey broccoli casserole, and the aroma of cheesy goodness and savory turkey filled my kitchen, promising a comforting and delicious meal. Everyone raved about it, asking for the recipe, which is why I’m sharing my go-to turkey broccoli casserole recipe with you today. This impressive turkey broccoli casserole is incredibly easy to make and always a crowd-pleaser. Let’s get cooking!

Why You’ll Love This Impressive Turkey Broccoli Casserole

This dish is more than just a meal; it’s a guaranteed hit! Here’s why it’s become a favorite:

• Incredibly flavorful and satisfying with its savory turkey, tender broccoli, and rich, creamy sauce.
• It’s an easy turkey broccoli casserole to put together, perfect for busy weeknights.
• Packed with lean protein and wholesome vegetables, making it a healthier comfort food option.
• Budget-friendly using common pantry staples and leftover turkey.
• A guaranteed crowd-pleaser that even picky eaters adore – it’s the best turkey broccoli casserole for family dinners.
• The cheesy, crunchy topping adds a delightful texture that everyone loves.
• Versatile enough for a quick weeknight meal or a special occasion.

Ingredients for Turkey Broccoli Casserole Recipe

Gather these simple ingredients for a truly delectable and creamy turkey broccoli casserole. The combination of tender turkey, vibrant broccoli, and a rich sauce makes this dish a winner. Using pre-cooked components makes this an easy turkey broccoli casserole to assemble in a flash!

• 2 cups cooked turkey, shredded or diced – perfect for using up leftovers!
• 4 cups broccoli florets, steamed – aim for tender-crisp so they hold their shape.
• 1 cup cooked rice (white or brown) – adds a hearty base and texture.
• 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup – this is the base for our wonderfully creamy turkey broccoli casserole sauce.
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese – essential for that irresistible cheesy turkey broccoli casserole topping and flavor.
• ½ cup milk – thins the sauce to the perfect consistency.
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder – for a subtle aromatic depth.
• ½ teaspoon onion powder – enhances the savory notes.
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper – a touch of warmth.
• 1 cup breadcrumbs – creates a delightful crunchy topping.
• 2 tablespoons butter, melted – coats the breadcrumbs for a golden, crisp finish.

How to Make Turkey Broccoli Casserole

Get ready to assemble this delicious turkey and broccoli bake recipe with these simple steps. It’s surprisingly straightforward to create this flavorful dish, and the aroma filling your kitchen will tell you you’re on the right track to making a truly impressive meal. Follow along and learn how to make turkey broccoli casserole that your family will request again and again.

1. Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Take a moment to let that oven get nice and hot – it’s crucial for that perfect bake.
2. Step 2: Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. This simple step ensures your casserole won’t stick, making cleanup a breeze.
3. Step 3: Steam your broccoli florets until they are just tender-crisp. You want them bright green and slightly yielding, not mushy.
4. Step 4: In a large bowl, combine the cooked turkey, steamed broccoli, cooked rice, cream of mushroom soup, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper. Mix everything gently until it’s well combined. The mixture should be creamy and fragrant.
5. Step 5: Spread this savory turkey and broccoli mixture evenly into your prepared baking dish. Make sure to get it into all the corners.
6. Step 6: Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the turkey mixture. Let the cheese fall like a delicious, melty blanket.
7. Step 7: In a separate small bowl, combine the breadcrumbs with the melted butter. Toss them together until the breadcrumbs are nicely coated.
8. Step 8: Distribute this buttery breadcrumb mixture evenly over the cheese layer. This is what will give you that irresistible crunchy topping!
9. Step 9: Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly around the edges and the breadcrumb topping is a beautiful golden brown. The kitchen will start to smell amazing!
10. Step 10: Once out of the oven, let the casserole cool for 10-15 minutes before serving. This resting period allows the flavors to meld and the casserole to set, making it easier to serve.

Pro Tips for the Best Turkey Broccoli Casserole

Want to elevate your turkey broccoli casserole from good to absolutely amazing? I’ve picked up a few tricks over the years that make all the difference. These simple tips ensure your casserole is perfectly seasoned, wonderfully textured, and a guaranteed hit every time you serve it.

• Always use freshly steamed broccoli for the best texture and vibrant green color. Overcooked broccoli can become mushy.
• Don’t skip the resting time after baking! Letting it sit for 10-15 minutes allows the casserole to set, making it easier to serve neat portions.
• Feel free to customize the cheese! While cheddar is classic, a mix of Gruyère or Monterey Jack adds a wonderful depth of flavor.
• For an extra layer of crunch and flavor, toast your breadcrumbs lightly in a dry skillet before mixing with butter.

What’s the secret to perfect Turkey Broccoli Casserole?

The real secret to a truly flavorful turkey broccoli casserole lies in building layers of savory goodness. Using a good quality cream of mushroom soup as a base and ensuring your turkey is well-seasoned before combining everything is key. Don’t forget that crunchy topping!

Can I make Turkey Broccoli Casserole ahead of time?

Absolutely! Assembling this dish ahead is a fantastic time-saver. Prepare the entire casserole, cover it tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. You might need to add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it’s cold from the fridge, ensuring you still get a delicious leftover turkey broccoli casserole.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Turkey Broccoli Casserole?

The most common pitfall is overcooking the broccoli, leading to mushiness. Steam it until just tender-crisp! Another mistake is not letting the casserole rest, which can make it runny. For a quick turkey broccoli casserole, ensure all your components (turkey, rice, broccoli) are pre-cooked and ready to go.

Best Ways to Serve Turkey Broccoli Casserole

This versatile dish is perfect for any occasion, from a casual weeknight dinner to a festive gathering. When serving this delightful turkey broccoli casserole for guests, consider pairing it with a crisp green salad and some crusty bread to soak up any extra creamy sauce. It’s comforting enough for a cozy evening at home and impressive enough to be a star on your holiday turkey broccoli casserole spread. You can also serve it alongside roasted sweet potatoes or a simple side of steamed green beans for a complete and satisfying meal.

Nutrition Facts for Healthy Turkey Broccoli Casserole

This recipe is designed to be a satisfying and relatively healthy option. Here’s a breakdown of the estimated nutritional information per serving, making it a great choice for a balanced meal. For more information on nutritional content, you can refer to resources like the USDA FoodData Central.

• Calories: 350
• Fat: 18g
• Saturated Fat: 8g
• Cholesterol: 60mg
• Sodium: 750mg
• Carbohydrates: 25g
• Fiber: 3g
• Sugar: 5g
• Protein: 22g

Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients used, especially the type of milk and cheese. This healthy turkey broccoli casserole offers a good balance of macronutrients.

How to Store and Reheat Leftover Turkey Broccoli Casserole

Don’t let any of this deliciousness go to waste! Properly storing and reheating your leftover turkey broccoli casserole ensures it stays just as tasty as the first time. After baking, let the casserole cool on a wire rack for about 15-20 minutes. This helps it set, preventing it from becoming mushy when stored.

For refrigeration, transfer the cooled casserole to an airtight container. It will keep well in the fridge for 3-4 days. If you plan to freeze it, wrap individual portions tightly in plastic wrap, then in aluminum foil, or place them in freezer-safe containers. This creamy turkey broccoli casserole can be frozen for up to 3 months.

To reheat, thaw frozen portions in the refrigerator overnight. For a quick turkey broccoli casserole reheat, place a portion in a microwave-safe dish and heat on medium power, stirring occasionally, until heated through. Alternatively, you can reheat individual servings or the entire casserole in a preheated oven at 325°F (160°C) until warm and bubbly, about 20-30 minutes for larger portions.

Frequently Asked Questions About Turkey Broccoli Casserole

Can I use fresh turkey instead of cooked turkey?

Yes, you absolutely can! If you’re starting with raw turkey, simply brown about 2 cups of ground turkey in a skillet before adding it to the casserole mixture. Drain any excess grease. This is a great way to make a turkey broccoli casserole with rice from scratch.

What can I use if I don’t have cream of mushroom soup?

No worries if cream of mushroom isn’t your favorite! You can substitute it with cream of chicken soup or cream of celery soup for a similar creamy base. For a lighter option, you could even make your own simple white sauce using butter, flour, and milk, then season it well.

How do I make this without rice?

It’s easy to adapt this recipe if you’re looking for a turkey broccoli casserole without pasta or rice. Simply omit the cooked rice from the ingredients. You can increase the amount of broccoli slightly or add another vegetable like peas or diced carrots for extra substance. The casserole will still be delicious!

Can I freeze this casserole before baking?

Definitely! You can assemble the entire turkey broccoli casserole, cover it tightly with plastic wrap and then foil, and freeze it for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to bake, remove the foil and plastic wrap, and bake from frozen at 350°F (175°C) for about 50-60 minutes, or until heated through and bubbly. You might want to add the breadcrumb topping during the last 20 minutes of baking.

Variations of Turkey Broccoli Casserole You Can Try

This classic dish is wonderfully adaptable, allowing you to create an elegant turkey broccoli casserole or a quick weeknight meal. Here are a few ideas to inspire your next creation:

• Vegetarian Version: Swap the turkey for extra broccoli, cauliflower, or even crumbled firm tofu. This makes for a delicious and satisfying meat-free meal.
• Gluten-Free Delight: Easily make this a gluten-free turkey broccoli casserole by using gluten-free breadcrumbs and serving it over quinoa or rice instead of traditional rice.
• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a diced jalapeño to the creamy mixture for a bit of heat. This creates a truly delectable turkey broccoli casserole with a surprising kick.
• Creamy Alfredo Bake: For an ultra-rich experience, substitute the cream of mushroom soup and milk with a jar of your favorite Alfredo sauce. This transforms it into a decadent pasta-like bake.

Print