Turkey Cheddar Casserole
A comforting turkey and cheese casserole with rice, peas, and a crunchy cracker topping, perfect for a hearty family meal or leftovers.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Prepare rice according to directions on the box.
- Add minced onions to boiling water.
- Fluff rice and spread in a greased 10 x 6 x 1/2-inch baking dish.
- Sprinkle with peas and cover with cooked turkey slices.
- Blend Cheddar cheese soup and milk together and pour evenly over the turkey.
- Combine crushed Cheddar crackers and melted butter and sprinkle over the casserole.
- Bake at 350°F for 35 minutes or until heated thoroughly.
Tips & Substitutions
For a flavorful twist, consider adding cooked vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms. If you don't have Cheddar cheese soup, a creamy mushroom soup can be a great substitute. You can also use leftover turkey or rotisserie chicken instead of cooked turkey slices for added convenience. For a crunchier topping, try mixing in some panko breadcrumbs with the crushed Cheddar crackers.
Serving Suggestions
This Turkey Cheddar Casserole is delicious on its own, but pairs beautifully with a fresh garden salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal. For extra flavor, serve it with a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of fresh herbs. It also makes for a comforting dish during family gatherings, like those featured in American recipes.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, cover the casserole with foil to prevent it from drying out and bake at 300°F until heated through, about 20-25 minutes. You can also microwave individual portions for a quick meal.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Turkey Cheddar Casserole contains roughly 811 calories, with 18g protein, 120g carbohydrates, and 29g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (45% of the Daily Value), protein (36% of the Daily Value), and vitamin C (29% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A and dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 902mg per serving (39% 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 a day in advance. Simply assemble it, cover it tightly with plastic wrap, and refrigerate. When ready to bake, remove the wrap and bake it directly from the fridge, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time to ensure it's heated through.
What can I substitute for rice in this recipe?
If you're looking for a substitute for rice, quinoa or cauliflower rice can work well to keep the dish gluten-free and lower in carbs. Just ensure to adjust the cooking time accordingly, as quinoa cooks faster and cauliflower rice requires less time.
Can I freeze the Turkey Cheddar Casserole?
Yes, you can freeze the casserole before baking it. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. When ready to use, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and bake as directed. Just note that the texture may change slightly after freezing.
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).