Turkey Cheddar Rice Bake
A comforting baked rice dish combining tender turkey, mushrooms, and melted cheddar, perfect for a hearty weeknight dinner that appeals to all ages.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Melt margarine in a saucepan.
- Blend in flour and crumbled chicken bouillon cubes.
- Gradually stir in skim milk, stirring until the mixture comes to a boil.
- Stir in cooked turkey and sliced mushrooms.
- Arrange cooked rice in an 8-inch nonstick baking pan.
- Spoon the turkey mixture over the rice.
- Sprinkle evenly with shredded Cheddar cheese.
- Bake at 350°F for 30 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a splash of heavy cream to the sauce. If you don't have margarine, butter works as a great substitute. You can also swap the turkey for shredded rotisserie chicken for a quicker option. For added flavor, try incorporating some garlic powder or onion powder into the sauce. This dish is also a great way to use up leftover turkey from your holiday meals.
Serving Suggestions
This turkey cheddar rice bake is delicious served with a side salad, such as a refreshing Hot And Sour Spinach Salad. For a complete meal, consider pairing it with steamed broccoli or green beans. It can also be served alongside crusty bread or a light dessert to round out the meal. This dish is ideal for a family dinner or as a comforting option for meal prep.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place the turkey cheddar rice bake in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions, but be sure to cover them to retain moisture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Turkey Cheddar Rice Bake contains roughly 1015 calories, with 27g protein, 82g carbohydrates, and 64g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (54% of the Daily Value), iron (41% of the Daily Value), and calcium (25% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A and vitamin D. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 656mg per serving (29% 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 brown rice instead of white rice?
Yes, you can use brown rice instead of white rice for a nuttier flavor and added fiber. Just keep in mind that brown rice typically requires a longer cooking time, so be sure it's fully cooked before adding it to the dish.
What can I substitute for chicken bouillon cubes?
If you don't have chicken bouillon cubes, you can use chicken broth or stock in place of the water and bouillon. Just replace the skim milk with an equal amount of broth for a savory base, enhancing the overall flavor of the dish.
Is this recipe suitable for freezing?
Yes, this turkey cheddar rice bake freezes well. Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to three months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and bake at 350°F until warmed through.
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).