Turkey Mornay
Creamy turkey Mornay combines tender turkey, mushrooms, asparagus, and melted cheeses in a savory baked casserole, perfect for comfort food lovers and family dinners.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook and drain the turkey bacon; set aside.
- Add sliced mushrooms and chopped onion to the skillet.
- Sauté for 2 to 3 minutes.
- Stir in flour, thyme, and pepper.
- Cook and stir for 1 to 2 minutes.
- Add chicken broth and milk, stirring constantly.
- Bring mixture to a boil.
- Cook until the sauce thickens.
- Stir in Parmesan cheese and simmer for 4 minutes.
- In a large bowl, combine bacon, sauce, cooked macaroni, thawed asparagus, diced cooked turkey, and 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese. Toss lightly.
- Spoon the mixture into a lightly greased 2 1/2-quart casserole dish.
- Sprinkle with the remaining cheese.
- Cover and refrigerate for up to 24 hours.
- Bake covered in a 350°F oven for 50 minutes or until bubbly.
- Let stand before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter alternative, substitute turkey bacon with a lean turkey breast. You can also use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose for added nutrition. If you prefer a vegetarian version, replace turkey with cooked lentils or chickpeas, and use vegetable broth. Adding garlic or a splash of white wine to the sauce can enhance the flavor.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Turkey Mornay with a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. It pairs beautifully with Pasta Salad Dinner for a hearty gathering. For an elegant touch, garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or chives before serving. This dish is also great for potlucks or as a comforting weeknight dinner.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, cover with foil and warm in a 350°F oven until heated through, about 20-25 minutes. You can also microwave individual portions, but for best results, add a splash of milk to keep the sauce creamy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Turkey Mornay contains roughly 817 calories, with 28g protein, 84g carbohydrates, and 43g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin D (105% of the Daily Value), iron (67% of the Daily Value), and vitamin C (66% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 845mg per serving (37% 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 a different type of cheese?
Yes, you can substitute the mozzarella with other cheeses such as cheddar or gouda for a different flavor profile. Just ensure that the cheese melts well, as this will affect the creamy texture of the dish.
Is it possible to make this dish vegetarian?
Absolutely! To make a vegetarian version, simply omit the turkey and turkey bacon. You can replace them with sautéed vegetables or cooked beans for protein. Ensure you use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a flavorful base.
Can I prepare this dish in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole up to 24 hours in advance. Just assemble all the ingredients in the casserole dish, cover it tightly, and refrigerate. When you're ready to bake, remove it from the fridge and add an extra 10-15 minutes to the baking time to ensure it heats 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).