Turkey-Broccoli Bake
A wholesome turkey and broccoli casserole topped with cheesy bread crumbs, perfect for a comforting family dinner with savory flavors and crispy topping.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Prepare broccoli according to package directions and drain well.
- Mix the cooked broccoli with lemon juice and spread in a 9-inch round baking dish.
- In a saucepan, melt 2 tablespoons of butter or oleo.
- Blend in flour and salt, then add milk all at once.
- Cook, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens and bubbles.
- Remove from heat and stir in shredded Swiss cheese until melted.
- Add cooked turkey strips to the cheese sauce.
- Spoon the turkey mixture over the broccoli in the baking dish.
- Combine bread crumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, and melted oleo.
- Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture over the casserole.
- Bake in a 350°F oven for 20 to 25 minutes until golden and bubbly.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier sauce, consider adding a splash of heavy cream or substituting half-and-half for some of the milk. If you prefer a different cheese, Gruyère or cheddar can work well too. To enhance flavor, try adding garlic powder or onion powder to the breadcrumb mixture. This dish can also be made ahead and frozen, similar to a Sausage-Cheese Breakfast Casserole.
Serving Suggestions
This Turkey-Broccoli Bake pairs beautifully with a side salad or steamed vegetables for a well-rounded meal. You can also serve it with crusty bread or garlic bread for dipping. For a festive touch, consider serving it alongside a refreshing fruit salad, which can balance the richness of the dish.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place the casserole in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions, but be cautious as this may make the breadcrumbs less crispy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Turkey-Broccoli Bake contains roughly 856 calories, with 28g protein, 126g carbohydrates, and 26g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (56% of the Daily Value), iron (53% of the Daily Value), and vitamin C (43% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1725mg per serving (75% 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 instead of frozen. Just steam or blanch it until tender before mixing with the lemon juice. This will enhance the flavor and texture of the bake.
Is there a vegetarian option for this dish?
Absolutely! You can replace the turkey with cooked quinoa or a mix of beans for protein. Use vegetable broth instead of milk and cheese alternatives to make it completely vegetarian.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, this casserole can be prepared a day in advance. Assemble it completely, cover, and refrigerate until ready to bake. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it's coming straight from the fridge.
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).