Lee'S Turkey Casserole
A creamy turkey casserole with crunchy cornflake topping, featuring tender turkey, celery, rice, and pimientos, perfect for a comforting family meal.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix all ingredients except for the crushed cornflakes in a bowl.
- Pour the mixture into an oblong casserole dish.
- Spread the crushed cornflakes evenly over the top of the mixture.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 50 minutes.
- Serve hot.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider substituting Greek yogurt for some of the mayonnaise. If you want to add more veggies, you can include diced carrots or peas. Using leftover turkey is ideal, but rotisserie chicken can work as a substitution. You can also try adding spices like paprika or garlic powder for extra flavor.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this turkey casserole hot, garnished with fresh parsley for color. It pairs beautifully with a side salad, like Southwest Grilled Chicken Salad, or some steamed vegetables. For a heartier meal, consider serving it with crusty bread or a light soup to complement the flavors.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the casserole in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20-25 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions, but the oven helps maintain the crispiness of the cornflakes.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Lee'S Turkey Casserole contains roughly 474 calories, with 6g protein, 42g carbohydrates, and 32g fat. It is a good source of protein (13% of the Daily Value) and iron (12% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2200mg per serving (96% 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 use fresh turkey instead of cooked turkey?
Yes, you can use fresh turkey, but it will need to be cooked first. Roast or boil the turkey until fully cooked, then shred it. This will add a fresh flavor to the casserole. Just ensure it's adequately cooled before mixing it with the other ingredients.
What can I substitute for cream of chicken soup?
If you prefer a lighter option or have dietary restrictions, you can use a homemade white sauce or a can of cream of mushroom soup instead. Both options will provide a similar creamy texture and flavor to the casserole.
Can I prepare this casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can assemble the casserole a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just remember to add the crushed cornflakes just before baking to keep them crunchy. It’s a great dish for meal prep or entertaining, as it allows for easy serving.
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).