Turkey Noodle Casserole
Turkey Noodle Casserole is a wonderful, cozy dish that combines tender chunks of turkey, soft noodles, and a creamy sauce all baked together until bubbly and golden. It’s the kind…
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Turkey Noodle Casserole is a wonderful, cozy dish that combines tender chunks of turkey, soft noodles, and a creamy sauce all baked together until bubbly and golden. It’s the kind of meal that feels like a warm hug, especially on chilly nights. The noodles soak up the flavors perfectly, making every bite comforting and satisfying.
I really love making this casserole whenever I have leftover turkey—it’s a great way to turn extra meat into a fresh, family-friendly dinner. Plus, it’s pretty simple to prepare, which is a big win for busy weeknights. I like to add a little bit of cheese on top for a nice, melty finish, and sometimes a crunchy breadcrumb topping for some texture.
This casserole always brings back good memories of family dinners where everyone gathered around the table, sharing stories and laughs. It’s the kind of dish that’s easy to share and enjoy together, making it a favorite in my house for casual get-togethers or a quiet night in. Serve it with a crisp green salad or some steamed veggies to round out the meal perfectly.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Turkey: Using cooked turkey adds great flavor and protein. Leftover turkey works perfectly, but you can also use cooked chicken for a different twist.
Noodles: Rotini or egg noodles work well because they hold sauce nicely. You can swap in penne, fusilli, or even whole wheat noodles if you want a healthier option.
Cream Soup: Cream of mushroom or cream of chicken soup makes the sauce creamy and rich. For a lighter choice, try a homemade sauce with chicken broth and milk mixed with a bit of flour or cornstarch to thicken.
Dairy: Sour cream adds tang and creaminess, but mayonnaise can be used for a similar effect. You can also substitute with Greek yogurt for a healthier twist.
Cheese: Cheddar is classic for this recipe, adding sharpness and gooey texture. Feel free to mix in Monterey Jack, mozzarella, or Swiss to change things up.
How Do I Get a Crispy Topping on My Casserole?
A crispy topping makes the casserole extra tasty. Here’s how I do it:
- Mix breadcrumbs with melted butter to help them brown evenly.
- Sprinkle the mixture over the cheese layer before baking.
- Bake uncovered so the heat crisps the topping without making it soggy.
- If you want extra crunch, broil for the last 2-3 minutes, but watch closely to prevent burning.
This method adds a lovely texture that contrasts with the creamy noodles and turkey inside, making each bite more enjoyable.
Equipment You’ll Need
- 9×13 inch casserole dish – perfect size for even baking and serving family-sized portions.
- Large mixing bowl – makes it easy to combine all ingredients evenly without spills.
- Wooden spoon or spatula – gentle on mixing and scooping without scratching your bowl or dish.
- Measuring cups and spoons – to get your ingredient amounts just right for best flavor and texture.
- Colander – handy for draining cooked noodles quickly and easily.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap turkey for cooked chicken to change up the flavor while keeping it comforting and familiar.
- Add sautéed mushrooms or green beans for extra veggies and a slight earthiness.
- Use pepper jack cheese instead of cheddar for a bit of mild heat and creaminess.
- Mix in cooked bacon bits or diced ham for a smoky, salty kick that pairs well with creamy sauce.
How to Make Turkey Noodle Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 3 cups cooked turkey, shredded or diced
- 3 cups cooked rotini or egg noodles
- 1 cup frozen peas
- 1 cup frozen corn
- 1 cup diced carrots
Sauce & Flavor:
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup (or cream of chicken soup)
- 1 cup sour cream or mayonnaise
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese, divided
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Topping (Optional):
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 2 tablespoons butter
How Much Time Will You Need?
This casserole takes roughly 15 minutes to prepare and about 25 to 30 minutes to bake. After baking, give it 5 minutes to rest before serving. Total time is around 45 minutes, easy enough for a cozy family dinner.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prep and Mix:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13 inch casserole dish. In a large bowl, mix the cream of mushroom soup, sour cream, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper until smooth.
2. Combine the Main Ingredients:
Add cooked turkey, noodles, peas, corn, carrots, and half the cheddar cheese to the bowl. Stir gently to blend everything well without breaking the noodles or turkey.
3. Assemble the Casserole:
Pour the mixture into your greased casserole dish and spread it out evenly. Sprinkle the remaining shredded cheddar cheese on top. For a crunchy topping, melt butter and mix it with breadcrumbs, then sprinkle that over the cheese.
4. Bake to Perfection:
Bake uncovered for 25-30 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbling and the top turns golden brown. Remove from the oven and let it sit for about 5 minutes — this helps everything set nicely for serving.
Enjoy your warm, cheesy Turkey Noodle Casserole! It’s perfect for a comforting dinner and a great way to use up leftover turkey.
Can I Use Frozen Turkey for This Casserole?
Yes, you can! Just make sure to thaw the turkey completely before using it. Thaw in the fridge overnight or use the defrost setting on your microwave for quicker thawing.
Can I Make Turkey Noodle Casserole Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! Prepare the casserole up to the point of baking, cover it tightly with foil, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready, bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes if it’s chilled.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through or in the microwave, stirring occasionally for even heating.
Can I Substitute Other Vegetables?
Yes! Feel free to add or swap in veggies like green beans, mushrooms, or broccoli to suit your tastes or to use what you have on hand.
