Tempting Turkey Casserole
A comforting turkey casserole featuring cheesy, creamy flavors with broccoli, mushrooms, and spaghetti, perfect for a family dinner or leftover meal that appeals to all ages.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Melt Cheez Whiz and combine with milk in the microwave.
- Toss cooked spaghetti with margarine.
- Combine all ingredients including Cheez Whiz mixture, spaghetti, turkey, broccoli, mushrooms, and pimiento.
- Mix well and spoon into a 2-quart casserole.
- Cover and bake at 350°F for 35 minutes.
- Stir before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a touch of cream cheese to the Cheez Whiz mixture. If you want to lighten the dish, substitute low-fat cheese or a dairy-free cheese alternative. Feel free to use leftover turkey or rotisserie chicken for a quick meal. Broccoli can be swapped for spinach or green beans if desired.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the casserole hot, garnished with extra pimiento or a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese for added flavor. Pair it with a fresh side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. This dish also pairs beautifully with Pineapple Breeze Dessert for a delightful finish.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover turkey casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, cover with foil and warm in a 350°F oven for about 20 minutes, or microwave in short intervals until heated through. Avoid reheating multiple times to maintain quality.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Tempting Turkey Casserole contains roughly 615 calories, with 16g protein, 10g carbohydrates, and 58g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin D (44% of the Daily Value), protein (32% of the Daily Value), and iron (20% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 551mg per serving (24% 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 a different type of pasta in this casserole?
Absolutely! While spaghetti is traditional, you can use any pasta shape you prefer, such as penne or rotini. Just make sure to cook the pasta al dente, as it will continue to cook while baking in the casserole.
Is it possible to make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole up to the baking step, cover it tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, just add an extra 10-15 minutes to the baking time to ensure it’s heated through.
Can I freeze the turkey casserole?
Yes, this casserole freezes well. After assembling, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. It can be frozen for up to two months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking, and increase the baking time if starting from frozen.
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).