Turkey Croquettes
Turkey croquettes are crispy, savory bites with tender ground turkey and seasoned mashed potatoes, perfect for a cozy appetizer or main course for family gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Melt butter in a saucepan; blend in flour and gradually add milk, cooking and stirring constantly until thickened.
- Add a little hot mixture to the beaten egg and mix well.
- Stir the egg mixture into the hot sauce and cook, stirring constantly for one minute.
- Add ground cooked turkey, seasoned mashed potatoes, grated onion, minced pimento, salt, and pepper; mix lightly.
- Chill the mixture thoroughly.
- Shape into croquettes and arrange in a greased shallow baking dish.
- Bake at 350°F for 25 to 30 minutes or until lightly browned.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding herbs like thyme or parsley to the turkey mixture. You can substitute the ground turkey with shredded chicken or leftover roast beef if you prefer. If you have leftover mashed potatoes from another meal, this recipe is a perfect way to use them up. Ensure to chill the mixture well before shaping to help maintain the croquette's structure.
Serving Suggestions
Serve turkey croquettes with a side of tangy dipping sauce, such as a homemade ranch or a zesty aioli. They pair beautifully with a fresh salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal. Consider complementing with dishes like Turkey And Scalloped Potato Bake for a hearty family dinner. For a lighter option, serve with a simple Chili Salad.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover turkey croquettes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. For longer storage, freeze them in individual portions. To reheat, bake in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes until heated through and crispy. They can also be microwaved, but the texture may not be as crispy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Turkey Croquettes contains roughly 653 calories, with 14g protein, 105g carbohydrates, and 20g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (29% of the Daily Value), iron (28% of the Daily Value), and vitamin C (20% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2152mg 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 make turkey croquettes ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the mixture a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Shape the croquettes just before baking to ensure they maintain their structure. If you prefer, you can also freeze the shaped croquettes before baking; just add a few extra minutes to the baking time when cooking from frozen.
What can I use instead of butter in this recipe?
If you're looking for a dairy-free option, you can substitute the butter with olive oil or a plant-based butter alternative. This will still provide the fat needed for cooking the flour while keeping the dish suitable for those avoiding dairy. Adjust seasonings slightly as some alternatives may have added salt.
Can I bake these croquettes instead of frying them?
Absolutely! This recipe is designed for baking, which makes it a healthier option. To get a crispy texture, ensure to grease the baking dish well and consider lightly brushing the croquettes with oil before baking. This method will give you a golden-brown finish without the need for frying.
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).