Creamy Turkey Casserole

Prep: 10 min Cook: 30 min Serves: 5 Cuisine: American

A creamy turkey casserole with tender celery and savory gravy, topped with buttery bread crumbs—perfect for a comforting family dinner or holiday meal.

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Ingredients

  • 1 cup chopped celery
  • 2 to 3 cups diced turkey
  • buttered bread crumbs
  • 1/2 cup water
  • 1 tablespoon margarine
  • 1/2 cup sour cream
  • 1 package turkey gravy mix

Instructions

  1. Cook the chopped celery in margarine until tender.
  2. Stir in the turkey gravy mix and water; heat until just boiling.
  3. Blend in the diced turkey and sour cream.
  4. Pour the mixture into a 1 1/2-quart casserole dish.
  5. Sprinkle with buttered bread crumbs on top.
  6. Bake at 350°F for 30 minutes until bubbly and golden.

Tips & Substitutions

For a creamier texture, consider adding a bit more sour cream or using cream cheese as a substitute. If you don't have turkey gravy mix, homemade gravy or a chicken gravy mix can work in a pinch. For added flavor, try seasoning with garlic powder or onion powder. Leftover vegetables can also be incorporated for extra nutrition.

Serving Suggestions

This creamy turkey casserole pairs beautifully with a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. Consider serving it alongside crusty bread or rolls to soak up the delicious sauce. For a heartier option, you might enjoy it with mashed potatoes or rice as a side dish.

Storage & Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place in the oven at 350°F for about 20 minutes or until heated through. You can also use the microwave, but be sure to cover it to maintain moisture.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Creamy Turkey Casserole contains roughly 120 calories, with 8g protein, 9g carbohydrates, and 6g fat. It is a good source of protein (16% of the Daily Value).

120 kcal 6% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 8.1g 16% DV
Total Fat 5.9g 8% DV
Carbs 8.5g 3% DV
Fiber 0.4g 1% DV
Sugar 0.8g 2% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 183.3mg 8% DV
Potassium 193mg 4% DV
Cholesterol 26.2mg 9% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 41.3mcg 5% DV
Vitamin C 1.5mg 2% DV
Calcium 78.2mg 6% DV
Iron 0.6mg 4% DV
Diet fit Keto-friendly Under 400 cal
Contains Milk Wheat/Gluten

Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.

* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use leftover cooked chicken instead of turkey?

Absolutely! Leftover cooked chicken works wonderfully in this casserole and can be a great way to use up holiday leftovers. Just ensure the chicken is diced similarly to the turkey for even cooking.

Is there a way to make this dish gluten-free?

Yes, you can substitute the turkey gravy mix with a gluten-free alternative or make your own gravy using cornstarch and broth. Additionally, be sure to use gluten-free bread crumbs for topping.

How can I make this dish ahead of time?

You can prepare the casserole up to the baking stage, cover it tightly, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, simply remove it from the fridge and adjust the baking time if it's cold from the refrigerator.

Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).

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