Turkey, Chicken Or Ham Buffet Casserole
A comforting casserole combining tender noodles, savory meat, broccoli, and creamy cheese sauce, perfect for family dinners and versatile for turkey, chicken, or ham leftovers.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook the noodles until al dente and drain.
- Melt margarine in a saucepan; stir in flour, salt, mustard, pepper, and milk.
- Cook the sauce until it thickens.
- Remove from heat and add American cheese, stirring until melted.
- Arrange cooked noodles, broccoli spears, and meat in a shallow casserole dish.
- Pour cheese sauce over the ingredients.
- Bake uncovered at 350°F (175°C) for 15 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier sauce, consider adding a dollop of sour cream or using half-and-half instead of milk. You can substitute the American cheese with cheddar for a sharper flavor. If you want to add more vegetables, try incorporating bell peppers or peas. Also, using whole wheat noodles can add a nutty flavor while increasing fiber content.
Serving Suggestions
This casserole pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. For a festive touch, consider serving it alongside Donna Watson'S Lime Cheesecake for dessert. It’s also a fantastic dish for potlucks or family gatherings, as it can easily be doubled to feed a crowd.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of milk to keep the casserole moist, and cover it with foil to prevent drying out. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, or microwave in short intervals.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Turkey, Chicken Or Ham Buffet Casserole contains roughly 594 calories, with 15g protein, 101g carbohydrates, and 15g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (98% of the Daily Value), vitamin A (66% of the Daily Value), and calcium (54% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2562mg per serving (111% 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 cooked meat in this casserole?
Absolutely! Leftover turkey, chicken, or ham works perfectly in this dish. Just ensure the meat is chopped into bite-sized pieces for even distribution. This is a great way to utilize leftovers from holiday meals or other dinners.
Can I freeze this casserole for later use?
Yes, you can freeze the casserole before baking it. Assemble it in a freezer-safe dish, cover tightly, and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to bake, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and then bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes if needed.
What can I substitute for the noodles?
If you're looking for a gluten-free alternative, consider using spiralized zucchini or gluten-free pasta. Alternatively, cauliflower rice can provide a lower-carb option. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary depending on your choice.
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).