Preacher'S Casserole
Preacher's Casserole is a hearty baked dish combining ground turkey, vegetables, and creamy soups, topped with crispy chow mein noodles. Its savory flavors and comforting texture make it perfect for family dinners or potlucks, offering a satisfying meal with a delightful crunch on top.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown the chopped onions and celery in a skillet.
- Add the ground turkey and cook until browned.
- Stir in salt, pepper, chili powder, cream of mushroom soup, tomato soup, and water.
- Mix in the chow mein noodles.
- Sprinkle the remaining chow mein noodles on top of the mixture.
- Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F for 45 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider incorporating garlic or bell peppers when sautéing the onions and celery. You can substitute ground turkey with ground chicken or beef if preferred. If you want a vegetarian version, use a plant-based meat alternative and vegetable broth instead of water. Adjust the chili powder based on your spice preference to suit your taste.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Preacher's Casserole with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. It pairs beautifully with a slice of Oh Suzanna Pie for dessert, creating a comforting and satisfying dinner experience. For a heartier meal, consider adding bread rolls or cornbread on the side for some extra texture.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place the casserole in an oven at 350°F for about 20 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions, covered, for a few minutes until warmed, being cautious not to dry it out.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Preacher'S Casserole contains roughly 648 calories, with 19g protein, 101g carbohydrates, and 20g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (37% of the Daily Value), iron (30% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (23% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1942mg per serving (84% 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 prepare the casserole up to a day in advance. Assemble it without baking, cover it tightly, and refrigerate. When ready to bake, remove it from the fridge and let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before placing it in the oven.
What can I use instead of chow mein noodles?
If chow mein noodles aren't available, you can substitute with crispy fried onions for a similar crunch or use crushed tortilla chips for a different texture. Alternatively, use egg noodles or cooked rice for a unique twist.
Can I freeze this casserole?
Yes, this casserole freezes well. To freeze, cool it completely after baking, then transfer to an airtight container or freezer-safe dish. It can be stored for up to three months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and bake at 350°F until heated through.
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).