easy turkey casserole recipe

Written ByJenny Smyth Posted on
easy turkey casserole recipe
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The Best easy turkey casserole recipe

This easy turkey casserole recipe is a staple in our household. I first discovered it when I was looking for a quick and comforting meal to make on a chilly fall evening. The dish originated from my grandmother, who would often make it for family gatherings and holidays.

It’s a classic American recipe that has been passed down through generations, and I’m excited to share it with you today. The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and versatility. You can easily customize it to suit your taste preferences by adjusting the level of spices, adding or removing vegetables, and even using leftover turkey or chicken.

The result is always a satisfying and flavorful meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions. What sets this casserole apart from other recipes is its use of canned soup as a key ingredient. This might sound unconventional, but trust me when I say it adds a depth of flavor that’s hard to replicate with fresh ingredients alone.

The cream of mushroom soup provides a rich, velvety texture that complements the savory flavors of the turkey and vegetables beautifully. Another advantage of this recipe is its ease of preparation. With just a few simple steps, you can have a delicious hot meal ready in under an hour.

Simply cook the ground turkey and vegetables in a skillet, mix in the canned soup and seasonings, and then transfer the mixture to a baking dish for an effortless finish.

Easy Turkey Casserole

Easy Turkey Casserole

4.9 from 1801 votes

A simple and satisfying casserole made with ground turkey, vegetables, and a creamy sauce, topped with cheese and baked until golden. This dish is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner and uses common pantry ingredients.

Prep Time15 mins
Cook Time30 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time45 mins
Servings: 4Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 380 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Casserole

1 lb ground turkey
1 tbsp olive oil
1 medium onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 red bell pepper, diced
1 cup frozen peas
1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
1/2 cup milk
1 tsp dried thyme
1/2 tsp salt
1/4 tsp black pepper
2 cups cooked rice
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

👨‍🍳Directions

1Preheat the oven to 375°F.
2In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add the olive oil and cook the ground turkey for 6 to 8 minutes, breaking it apart with a spoon, until it is no longer pink and has reached an internal temperature of 165°F.
3Add the diced onion and red bell pepper to the skillet and cook for 4 to 5 minutes until softened.
4Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
5Reduce the heat to medium and add the cream of mushroom soup, milk, dried thyme, salt, and black pepper.
6Stir well to combine and let the mixture simmer for 2 minutes until slightly thickened.
7Remove the skillet from heat and fold in the frozen peas and cooked rice until evenly distributed.
8Transfer the mixture to a greased 9×13 inch baking dish and spread it into an even layer.
9Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top of the casserole.
10Bake for 20 to 25 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the edges are lightly browned.
11Let it rest for 5 minutes before serving.

🔧Equipment

Large skillet
9×13 inch baking dish
Mixing bowl
Measuring cups and spoons
Oven

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 380 kcal🧈Total Fat: 18g💛Saturated Fat: 8g❤️Cholesterol: 70mg🧂Sodium: 750mg🌾Total Carbs: 30g🥦Dietary Fiber: 3g🍬Sugars: 5g🥩Protein: 25g

📝Notes

For a lighter version, use low-fat cream of mushroom soup and reduced-fat cheese. You can also substitute brown rice for white rice for extra fiber. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Watch Video Of How Easy Turkey Casserole Works

This easy turkey casserole is always a good idea because it is simple, satisfying, and works for any occasion. I love that I can make it ahead and store it in the fridge for up to three days.

To reheat, just cover it with foil and warm it in a 350 degree oven for about 15 minutes or microwave individual portions. It also freezes beautifully, so I often make two and save one for a busy week.

Serve it with a side salad or some crusty bread and you have a complete meal that everyone enjoys. Whether it is a casual family dinner or a holiday gathering, this casserole never disappoints.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Turkey Casserole

Q: What type of turkey is best to use in this recipe?

The best type of turkey to use in this recipe is ground turkey breast or thighs. Ground turkey has a higher fat content than other types of poultry, which helps keep the casserole moist and flavorful.

Q: Can I substitute chicken for turkey in this recipe?

Yes, you can substitute chicken for turkey in this recipe if you prefer. Chicken breast or thighs will work equally well.

Q: Do I need to thaw the frozen vegetables before adding them to the casserole?

No, you don’t need to thaw frozen vegetables before adding them to the casserole. Simply add them directly from the freezer to save time.

Q: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can make this recipe ahead of time by preparing the filling mixture up to 24 hours in advance. However, it’s best not to assemble the casserole until just before baking.

Q: How do I store leftover casserole?

To store leftover casserole, let it cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 2 months.

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