"Turkey-In-The-Straw"
A comforting casserole combining tender broccoli, savory turkey, melted cheese, and crispy onion rings, perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings. Creamy, crunchy, and satisfying.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F.
- Cook broccoli to crisp-tender stage.
- Place cooked broccoli in the bottom of an oblong baking dish.
- Cover with slices of turkey or chopped turkey.
- Top with slices of cheese.
- Mix evaporated milk and mushroom soup together and pour over the layered ingredients.
- Bake for 25 minutes.
- Remove from oven, cover with French-fried onion rings, and bake for an additional 5 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a dollop of sour cream to the mushroom soup mixture. You can substitute fresh or steamed broccoli for frozen if preferred. If you're looking for extra flavor, add some garlic powder or herbs like thyme and oregano. This dish can also be made with leftover chicken instead of turkey for a delicious twist.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this dish hot, garnished with fresh parsley for a pop of color. It pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad or some crusty bread to soak up the creamy sauce. For a complete meal, consider serving it alongside mashed potatoes or rice. Explore more American recipes for additional meal ideas.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in an oven-safe dish and cover with foil, warming at 350°F until heated through. Alternatively, you can microwave individual portions, covering them to retain moisture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of "Turkey-In-The-Straw" contains roughly 676 calories, with 29g protein, 77g carbohydrates, and 28g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (79% of the Daily Value), protein (58% of the Daily Value), and iron (38% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 761mg per serving (33% 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 fresh broccoli instead of frozen?
Yes, fresh broccoli can be used instead of frozen. Just make sure to cook it until it's crisp-tender before layering it in the baking dish. This will enhance the texture and flavor of the dish.
Is there a vegetarian option for this recipe?
Absolutely! You can omit the turkey and add more vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms for added flavor. Replace the cheese with a plant-based alternative, and ensure the soup is vegetarian-friendly.
Can I prepare this dish in advance?
Yes, you can assemble the dish a day ahead and store it in the refrigerator before baking. Just cover it tightly with plastic wrap. When ready to bake, remove the wrap and add a few extra minutes to the baking time to ensure it’s heated 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).