Turkey Buffet Casserole
A creamy turkey casserole with tender noodles, broccoli, and toasted almonds, perfect for family dinners or leftovers, combining savory cheese sauce with crunchy toppings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook noodles in salted boiling water until tender; drain. Dice broccoli stems but leave flowerets whole.
- Meanwhile, in a saucepan over low heat, melt butter; stir in flour, salt, mustard, pepper and milk.
- Cook, stirring constantly, until thick and smooth.
- Remove from heat and stir in cheese until melted.
- In a greased casserole or 8-inch baking dish, arrange noodles, broccoli stems, and turkey.
- Pour cheese sauce over all.
- Arrange broccoli flowerets on top; sprinkle on almonds.
- Bake, uncovered, at 350°F for 15 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier sauce, consider adding a splash of cream or substituting half the milk with a non-dairy alternative if needed. You can also use shredded rotisserie chicken instead of turkey for a quicker prep. If you prefer a crunchier topping, add breadcrumbs mixed with parmesan cheese before baking.
Serving Suggestions
This casserole pairs wonderfully with a fresh green salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. You might also serve it with a side of steamed vegetables for added nutrition. For a heartier meal, consider serving it alongside Lori'S Cheese Cake for dessert to balance the savory flavors.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in an oven-safe dish and cover with foil to prevent drying out. Heat at 350°F for about 20 minutes or until warmed through, stirring occasionally.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Turkey Buffet Casserole contains roughly 1866 calories, with 32g protein, 39g carbohydrates, and 182g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (65% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (60% of the Daily Value), and calcium (39% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2169mg per serving (94% 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 cheese?
Absolutely! While American cheese provides a smooth texture, you can substitute it with cheddar, mozzarella, or even a blend of cheeses for a different flavor profile. Just keep in mind that the melting properties may vary slightly.
Is there a way to make this dish gluten-free?
Yes, you can easily adapt this recipe to be gluten-free by using gluten-free noodles and substituting the flour with a gluten-free all-purpose blend. Just ensure your other ingredients, like the cheese and broth, are also gluten-free.
Can I prepare this casserole in advance?
Certainly! You can assemble the casserole a day ahead, cover it tightly, and store it in the refrigerator. When ready to bake, simply add a few extra minutes to the cooking time to ensure it heats through completely.
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).