Florentine Turkey Noodle Casserole
A creamy, cheesy casserole combining turkey, spinach, and noodles with a flavorful nutmeg and paprika twist, perfect for holiday leftovers or family dinners.
Ingredients
- 1/4 cup margarine ⓘ
- 1/2 cup onion, chopped ⓘ
- 1/4 cup cornstarch ⓘ
- 2 cups milk ⓘ
- 1 cup turkey or chicken broth ⓘ
- 1 teaspoon salt ⓘ
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg ⓘ
- 1/4 teaspoon pepper ⓘ
- 1 (8 oz.) package medium egg noodles, cooked and drained ⓘ
- 1 (10 oz.) package frozen chopped spinach, cooked and drained ⓘ
- 2 cups cooked turkey ⓘ
Instructions
- In a 2-quart saucepan, melt margarine over medium heat.
- Add chopped onion and cook for 2 to 3 minutes until tender.
- Remove from heat and stir in cornstarch until blended.
- Gradually stir in milk until smooth, then add broth, salt, nutmeg, and pepper.
- Stirring constantly, bring to a boil over medium heat and cook for 1 minute.
- Pour 1 cup of the sauce into an 11 x 7 x 2-inch baking dish to cover the bottom.
- Layer 2 1/4 cups cooked noodles, cooked spinach, cooked turkey, and 1 cup cheese over the sauce.
- Top with remaining noodles.
- Pour the remaining sauce over the noodles.
- Sprinkle with remaining cheese and paprika.
- Bake at 350°F for 30 minutes or until heated through.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a splash of heavy cream to the sauce. If you're out of margarine, butter is a great substitute. You can also use leftover roasted chicken in place of turkey. To add a bit of zest, try incorporating grated lemon peel or a dash of hot sauce into the mixture. This casserole is a great way to use up extra vegetables from other meals, similar to a Zucchini Sausage Quiche.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this casserole with a crisp green salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. A side of crusty bread can complement the dish nicely, making it a comforting option for family dinners. It also pairs beautifully with Easy One Pot Meal for a hearty weeknight feast.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F for about 20 minutes or until thoroughly warmed. Alternatively, you can microwave individual portions on medium power for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through to ensure even heating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Florentine Turkey Noodle Casserole contains roughly 718 calories, with 18g protein, 101g carbohydrates, and 33g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (141% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (84% of the Daily Value), and iron (79% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1638mg per serving (71% 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 make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the casserole the day before and store it in the refrigerator. Just remember to cover it tightly with foil. When ready to bake, allow it to sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before placing it in the oven to ensure even cooking.
What can I substitute for spinach?
If you don't have spinach, you can use other leafy greens such as kale or Swiss chard. Alternatively, you can mix in some sautéed mushrooms or bell peppers for added flavor and texture. Just be sure to cook and drain them properly before adding to the casserole.
Can I freeze the casserole?
Yes, this casserole freezes well. To freeze, assemble it as directed but do not bake. Cover tightly with plastic wrap and then foil, and store it in the freezer for up to 2 months. When ready to bake, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and bake as instructed.
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).