Smoked Turkey And Rice Casserole
A hearty smoked turkey and rice casserole with crispy bacon, melted cheese, and savory flavors, perfect for using holiday leftovers or a comforting family meal.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook bacon until crispy, then reserve the drippings.
- Blend flour, salt, and pepper into 1/2 cup bacon drippings to make a roux.
- Gradually add milk, stirring constantly until the mixture thickens and becomes smooth.
- Add two-thirds of the cubed smoked cheese and stir until it is somewhat melted into the sauce.
- Fold in the diced turkey, pimento, cooked rice, and crumbled bacon.
- Pour the mixture into two buttered 1 1/2-quart casseroles or three 1-quart casseroles.
- Top with the remaining cheese and sprinkle with paprika.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 20 to 30 minutes until bubbly and heated through.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, try using a combination of smoked turkey and chicken. You can also substitute the smoked cheese with a blend of sharp cheddar and gouda for a different taste. If you prefer a bit of crunch, consider adding some toasted breadcrumbs on top before baking. Make sure to cook the bacon until it's crispy for the best texture in the casserole.
Serving Suggestions
This casserole pairs beautifully with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal. You could also serve it alongside garlic bread or a slice of cornbread to soak up the creamy sauce. For a heartier option, consider serving it with roasted Brussels sprouts or a side of baked beans.
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 minutes, covered with foil to retain moisture. You can also microwave individual portions, but be sure to cover them to prevent drying out.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Smoked Turkey And Rice Casserole contains roughly 787 calories, with 23g protein, 149g carbohydrates, and 13g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (180% of the Daily Value), iron (84% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (78% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 613mg per serving (27% 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 the point of baking, cover it tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, allow it to sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before placing it in the oven. This helps ensure even cooking.
What can I use instead of bacon?
If you're looking for a healthier option, you can substitute turkey bacon or omit it entirely and use olive oil for sautéing. For a vegetarian version, consider adding sautéed mushrooms or chopped vegetables like bell peppers for added flavor.
How can I make this dish spicier?
To add some heat, incorporate diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper into the cheese sauce. You can also serve it with a side of hot sauce or sprinkle some crushed red pepper flakes on top before serving to give it a nice kick.
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).