Fast Turkey Casserole
A quick and hearty turkey casserole layered with tortilla chips, cheese, green chilies, and creamy soup, perfect for family dinners and using leftover turkey.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Layer tortilla chips, turkey, chopped onion, chopped green chilies, half the cheese, chopped tomatoes (from Ro-Tel), and the remaining cheese in a 9 x 13-inch dish.
- Combine the cream of celery soup and milk in a bowl and mix well.
- Pour the soup mixture over the layered ingredients in the dish.
- Bake at 425°F (220°C) for 30 minutes until hot and bubbly.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider substituting the roasted turkey with shredded rotisserie chicken. You can also use crushed tortilla chips for a uniform layer. If you prefer a spicier kick, add diced jalapeños or swap the Cheddar with Pepper Jack cheese. To make it lighter, opt for low-fat cream of celery soup and reduced-fat cheese.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the casserole hot, garnished with fresh cilantro or sliced green onions for an extra touch. It pairs beautifully with a side salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. For a fun twist, serve it with a dollop of sour cream or guacamole on top.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions, but be sure to cover to retain moisture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Fast Turkey Casserole contains roughly 404 calories, with 18g protein, 38g carbohydrates, and 20g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (35% of the Daily Value) and calcium (26% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 684mg per serving (30% of the Daily Value).
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 prepare the casserole in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole a day ahead. Assemble all the layers in the dish, cover tightly with plastic wrap, and refrigerate. When ready to bake, remove from the fridge and let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before baking to ensure even cooking.
What can I use instead of cream of celery soup?
If you don't have cream of celery soup, you can substitute it with cream of mushroom soup or make a homemade version using a roux and adding celery, onion, and cream. This will maintain the creamy texture and enhance the flavor of the dish.
Can I freeze this casserole?
Yes, this casserole can be frozen before baking. Wrap it tightly with foil or plastic wrap and store in the freezer for up to 2 months. When ready to cook, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time if needed.
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).