Turkey-Cheddar Noodle Casserole
A hearty turkey and broccoli noodle casserole with melted cheddar and crunchy almonds, perfect for comforting family dinners and versatile enough for leftovers.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook noodles according to package directions; cook broccoli until tender-crisp.
- Drain and coarsely chop the broccoli.
- Make a white sauce by melting oleo, then stirring in flour and milk until smooth and thickened.
- Add salt, pepper, mustard, and shredded Cheddar cheese to the white sauce; stir until cheese melts.
- In a buttered 11 x 7 x 1½-inch casserole dish, place half of the cooked noodles.
- Cover with cubed cooked turkey and two-thirds of the broccoli.
- Pour half of the cheese sauce over the noodles, turkey, and broccoli.
- Add the remaining noodles on top, pressing remaining broccoli florets into the noodles.
- Pour over the remaining cheese sauce and sprinkle with toasted slivered almonds.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 30 minutes until bubbly and golden.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a splash of cream to the cheese sauce. If you're short on time, substitute the broccoli with other frozen vegetables like peas or mixed veggies. For a gluten-free option, use gluten-free noodles and flour. To enhance the flavor, try adding a dash of garlic powder or onion powder to the white sauce.
Serving Suggestions
This Turkey-Cheddar Noodle Casserole is a hearty dish that pairs well with a simple green salad or crusty bread for a complete meal. For a comforting touch, serve it alongside creamy mashed potatoes or steamed vegetables. It also makes a great potluck dish or comforting weeknight dinner, perfect for families enjoying American recipes.
Storage & Reheating
To store leftovers, allow the casserole to cool completely, then cover it tightly with plastic wrap or transfer it to an airtight container. It can be refrigerated for up to 3 days. To reheat, place it in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20-25 minutes until heated through, covering with foil to prevent browning.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Turkey-Cheddar Noodle Casserole contains roughly 361 calories, with 13g protein, 67g carbohydrates, and 4g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (50% of the Daily Value), protein (27% of the Daily Value), and iron (23% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1366mg per serving (59% 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 leftover turkey for this casserole?
Absolutely! This recipe is perfect for using up leftover turkey, making it a great option after holidays. Just make sure the turkey is cubed and cooked before layering it in the casserole. It adds great flavor and a nice texture to the dish.
Can I freeze the casserole before baking?
Yes, you can freeze the assembled casserole before baking. Just wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil to prevent freezer burn. When you're ready to bake it, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and then bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time if needed.
What can I substitute for Cheddar cheese?
If you're looking for alternatives to Cheddar cheese, you can try using a blend of Monterey Jack and Colby for a milder flavor. Alternatively, mozzarella can be used for a stretchier texture. Just be mindful of the flavor profile, as it may change the overall taste of the casserole.
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).