Melt-A-Way Casserole
A creamy, cheesy casserole with tender pasta and savory turkey or chicken, topped with crunchy crumbs—perfect for comforting family dinners and versatile leftovers.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook the macaroni until tender and drain.
- Melt butter in a skillet and add chopped onions; cook over low heat for 3 to 5 minutes.
- Stir in flour, salt, pepper, and thyme; cook for 1 minute.
- Gradually add milk, stirring constantly until the mixture thickens.
- Layer half of the cooked macaroni in a lightly greased 2-quart baking dish.
- Spread half of the chopped turkey or chicken over the macaroni.
- Place slices of Cheddar cheese on top of the meat layer.
- Repeat the layers with remaining macaroni, meat, and cheese.
- Pour the thickened sauce over the layered ingredients.
- Combine bread or biscuit crumbs with melted butter and parsley.
- Sprinkle the crumb mixture over the casserole.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 25 minutes until golden and bubbly.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a bit of cream cheese or sour cream to the sauce. You can substitute the turkey or chicken with cooked ham or a vegetarian protein like lentils for a different flavor. If you prefer, use gluten-free macaroni and flour to make this dish suitable for those with dietary restrictions. Fresh herbs can elevate the dish; try adding parsley or chives.
Serving Suggestions
This casserole is perfect for a comforting main dish, and it pairs beautifully with a side salad or steamed vegetables. Consider serving it alongside crusty bread or garlic bread for a complete meal. For a family gathering, it complements American recipes like Jekyll Island Peanut Pie or Ann'S Blueberry Torte for dessert.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place the casserole in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions for a quick meal, just cover them to retain moisture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Melt-A-Way Casserole contains roughly 1014 calories, with 47g protein, 71g carbohydrates, and 65g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (205% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (104% of the Daily Value), and protein (94% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1753mg per serving (76% 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 whole wheat macaroni instead of regular?
Yes, whole wheat macaroni can be a great substitute for regular macaroni. It will add a nuttier flavor and more fiber to the dish. Just keep an eye on the cooking time, as whole wheat pasta may require a slightly longer cooking time to reach the desired tenderness.
Is there a way to make this casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole up to the baking step and cover it tightly with foil. Store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. When you're ready to bake, you may need to add a few extra minutes to the cooking time if it's coming straight from the fridge.
Can I freeze this casserole?
Yes, this casserole freezes well! After assembling, cover it tightly with plastic wrap and then foil to prevent freezer burn. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and bake as directed, adding 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).