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Creamy Turkey Casserole Bake Recipe Easy Cheesy Dinner Idea

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This creamy turkey casserole bake is a comforting, cheesy dinner perfect for using up leftover turkey. With a homemade cream sauce, double cheese, and a crispy topping, it’s an easy, crowd-pleasing meal for busy weeknights or special occasions.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 3 cups cooked turkey, diced or shredded (about 400g)
  • 8 ounces rotini or penne pasta (about 225g dry)
  • 1 cup frozen peas (about 120g)
  • 1 cup carrots, diced (about 130g)
  • 1/2 cup celery, diced (about 60g)
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped (about 100g)
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 3 tablespoons unsalted butter (about 42g)
  • 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour (about 24g)
  • 2 cups chicken or turkey broth (about 480ml)
  • 1 cup whole milk (about 240ml)
  • 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened (about 115g)
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard (about 5ml)
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (about 1g)
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste (start with 1/2 teaspoon each)
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (about 115g)
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (about 20g)
  • 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (about 30g, preferably panko)
  • 2 tablespoons butter, melted (about 28g)

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
  2. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta until just al dente, about 8-9 minutes. Drain and set aside.
  3. In a large skillet over medium heat, melt 3 tablespoons butter. Add onion, carrots, and celery; sauté 5-6 minutes until softened. Stir in garlic and cook 1 minute more.
  4. Sprinkle flour over the veggies and stir constantly for 1-2 minutes until a thick paste forms.
  5. Slowly pour in broth and milk, whisking to avoid lumps. Bring to a gentle simmer and cook 3-4 minutes until thickened.
  6. Lower heat. Whisk in cream cheese and Dijon mustard until smooth. Add smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Taste and adjust seasoning.
  7. In a large bowl, combine cooked pasta, turkey, peas, and creamy veggie sauce. Stir until evenly coated. Add more broth or milk if mixture seems dry.
  8. Pour mixture into prepared baking dish and smooth the top. Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the surface.
  9. In a small bowl, mix breadcrumbs, Parmesan, and melted butter. Scatter over the cheese layer.
  10. Bake uncovered for 25-30 minutes, until cheese is bubbling and topping is golden brown. Broil for 2-3 minutes for extra crispiness if desired.
  11. Let casserole rest 5-10 minutes before serving.

Notes

Undercook pasta slightly to prevent mushiness. Use room temperature dairy for a smooth sauce. Taste and adjust seasoning before baking. For gluten-free, use GF pasta, flour, and breadcrumbs. For dairy-free, use plant-based alternatives. Let casserole rest before serving for best texture.

Nutrition

Keywords: turkey casserole, creamy turkey bake, leftover turkey recipe, cheesy casserole, comfort food, easy dinner, weeknight meal, pasta bake

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