Reduced Fat Turkey Divan
A flavorful, health-conscious casserole combining tender turkey, broccoli, and melted Cheddar cheese in a creamy sauce, perfect for a comforting and nutritious family meal.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook broccoli as directed on package until just tender; drain. Arrange broccoli in a 1 1/2-quart casserole; lay turkey slices on top of broccoli.
- Mix cornstarch with turkey broth in a saucepan until smooth.
- Add skim milk; cook, stirring constantly until thickened. Remove from heat; add cheese and salt.
- Stir until cheese melts. Pour sauce over the turkey.
- Bake at 375°F until sauce is bubbly, about 25 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter version, consider using low-fat cheese instead of natural Cheddar. If you want to add more flavor, sauté some garlic or onions in the saucepan before adding the cornstarch mixture. You can also substitute the turkey with cooked chicken or a plant-based protein for a different twist. Always taste the sauce before pouring it over the turkey to adjust the seasoning as needed.
Serving Suggestions
This Reduced Fat Turkey Divan pairs beautifully with a simple side salad or some whole grain rice for a complete meal. Consider serving it alongside roasted carrots or steamed green beans for added color and nutrition. For a comforting dessert, try Aunt Sue's Cheesecake to round out the meal.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions for quicker reheating, but be sure to cover them to retain moisture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Reduced Fat Turkey Divan contains roughly 562 calories, with 34g protein, 46g carbohydrates, and 26g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (67% of the Daily Value), calcium (39% of the Daily Value), and vitamin C (28% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 946mg per serving (41% 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 broccoli instead of frozen?
Yes, fresh broccoli can be used in place of frozen. Just make sure to blanch it briefly in boiling water to soften it before layering in the casserole. This will ensure it gets tender during baking, and you can adjust the cooking time slightly if needed.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the entire casserole ahead of time and refrigerate it before baking. Just make sure to cover it tightly with foil or plastic wrap. When you're ready to bake, remove the cover and add a few extra minutes to the baking time to ensure it's heated through.
Is there a vegetarian option for this recipe?
Yes, you can easily make a vegetarian version by substituting the turkey with a plant-based protein, such as tofu or chickpeas. You can also add additional vegetables like mushrooms or bell peppers to enhance the flavor and texture of the dish.
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).