Turkey And Chile Casserole
A hearty turkey and green chile casserole with cheesy rice, perfect for comforting family dinners or gatherings that enjoy bold flavors and creamy textures.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine chicken broth, chopped onion, and 1/2 teaspoon salt; heat to boiling.
- Stir in rice and cover; cook according to package directions.
- Mix diced green chiles into sour cream with remaining 1/2 teaspoon salt.
- Layer half of the cooked rice, sour cream mixture, chopped turkey, and shredded cheese into a 2-quart baking dish.
- Repeat the layers, ending with shredded cheese on top.
- Bake at 350°F for 20 minutes or until heated through.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider sautéing the onion in a bit of olive oil before adding the broth. If you're short on time, pre-cooked or leftover turkey works well as a substitute. You can also use other types of cheese, such as cheddar or a Mexican blend, for a different taste. To make this dish lighter, substitute Greek yogurt for sour cream.
Serving Suggestions
This Turkey and Chile Casserole pairs well with a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal. You might also serve it alongside crusty bread or corn muffins for added texture. For a comforting twist, consider browsing more American recipes that feature turkey, like Chicken Broccoli With Rice or Hot Chicken Bake.
Storage & Reheating
Store 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 for about 15-20 minutes, or until warmed through. You can also microwave individual portions for quicker reheating, but be sure to cover them to prevent drying out.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Turkey And Chile Casserole contains roughly 434 calories, with 19g protein, 78g carbohydrates, and 5g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (37% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2311mg per serving (100% 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 meat in this casserole?
Absolutely! While this recipe calls for turkey, you can easily substitute shredded chicken or even a vegetarian protein like beans or lentils for a meatless version. Just ensure you adjust cooking times as necessary based on the protein used.
Is this casserole suitable for freezing?
Yes, this casserole freezes well! Assemble it without baking, cover tightly, and freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to bake, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and then bake as directed for a delicious meal any time.
What's the best way to reheat the casserole without drying it out?
To reheat the casserole without drying it out, cover it with foil while it warms in the oven. This will help retain moisture. If using a microwave, adding a splash of broth or water before covering can also help keep it from drying out.
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).