There's nothing quite like pulling a bubbling, golden Cheesy Turkey Casserole Recipe out of the oven on a busy weeknight. The aroma of melted cheese, tender turkey, and creamy sauce filling your kitchen is pure comfort food magic. I've been making this Cheesy Turkey Casserole Recipe for years, and it's become my go-to solution whenever I need a hearty dinner that doesn't require hours in the kitchen.
This Cheesy Turkey Casserole Recipe transforms simple ingredients into something truly special. Whether you're using leftover holiday turkey or starting fresh with ground turkey, this dish delivers that warm, satisfying feeling we all crave after a long day. The best part? It's foolproof, budget-friendly, and makes enough to feed a crowd or provide leftovers for tomorrow's lunch. Trust me, once you make this Cheesy Turkey Casserole Recipe, it'll become a regular in your dinner rotation.
Why This Turkey Bake Belongs in Your Recipe Collection
I started making this easy turkey casserole recipe back when I was looking for creative ways to use Thanksgiving leftovers without eating the same meal three days in a row. What began as a leftover solution quickly became a family favorite that we now make year-round. The beauty of this creamy turkey pasta bake lies in its flexibility; you can adapt it based on what's in your pantry, and it always turns out delicious.
This turkey casserole with cheese hits all the right notes for busy families. It's a one-pan turkey casserole that comes together in about 15 minutes of prep time, then the oven does the rest of the work. The gooey melted cheese creates this incredible blanket over tender turkey and perfectly cooked pasta or rice, while the cream of mushroom soup adds richness without any complicated sauce-making. Kids love it because it's cheesy comfort food at its finest, and adults appreciate how it stretches a little bit of protein into a filling meal that doesn't break the bank. Plus, this baked turkey casserole pairs beautifully with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables, making it a complete dinner solution.
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Ingredients
- Cooked turkey, diced or shredded
- Pasta (penne, rotini, or egg noodles) / rice (variation)
- Shredded cheddar cheese
- Sour cream (or Greek yogurt substitute)
- Cream of mushroom soup (or cream of chicken substitute)
- Chicken or turkey broth (or vegetable broth)
- Frozen mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, corn, broccoli as variation)
- Onion, diced
- Garlic, minced
- Breadcrumbs or crushed crackers
- Melted butter
- Shredded Parmesan cheese
- Salt
- Black pepper
- Garlic powder
- Dried thyme or Italian seasoning
See recipe card for quantities.
Instructions
Prepare Your Ingredients
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9x13-inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray.
- Cook your pasta according to package directions until it's just al dente; remember, it'll continue cooking in the oven. Drain and set aside.
- If you're using raw ground turkey, cook it in a large skillet over medium heat until browned, about 8 minutes. Season with salt and pepper while cooking.
- Dice your cooked turkey into bite-sized pieces if using leftovers. Chop the onion and mince the garlic.
- Measure out all your other ingredients so everything's ready to go. This makes the assembly process super smooth.
Build the Creamy Base
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cream of mushroom soup, chicken broth, and sour cream. Whisk until smooth and well blended.
- Add the diced onion, minced garlic, frozen vegetables, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and thyme. Stir everything together.
- Fold in the cooked pasta and turkey pieces, making sure everything is evenly coated with the creamy sauce.
- Add 1.5 cups of the shredded cheddar cheese and mix it through. Save that remaining half cup for the top.
- Taste the mixture and adjust seasoning if needed. This is your chance to make it perfect.
Assemble the Casserole
- Pour the turkey and pasta mixture into your prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly with a spatula.
- Sprinkle the remaining ½ cup of cheddar cheese over the top, creating an even layer that will get all melty and golden.
- In a small bowl, mix the breadcrumbs with melted butter and Parmesan cheese until the crumbs are evenly coated.
- Scatter the breadcrumb mixture over the cheese layer, covering the entire surface for maximum crunch.
- If you like extra cheese (and who doesn't?), add a few more pinches of cheddar on top.
Bake to Perfection
- Let the casserole rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. This helps it set up so it doesn't fall apart when you scoop it.
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and place it in the preheated oven.
- Bake covered for 25 minutes. This allows the casserole to heat through without the topping burning.
- Remove the foil and continue baking for another 15-20 minutes until the top is golden brown and the cheese is bubbling around the edges.
- Look for that beautiful golden crust on top; that's your sign it's ready.
Expert Cooking Tips
- Getting your cheesy turkey casserole recipe just right comes down to a few key techniques I've learned over the years. These tips will take your casserole from good to absolutely incredible.
Don't Overcook Your Pasta
- Cook your pasta 2 minutes less than the package directions suggest. Since it continues cooking in the oven, you want it slightly underdone initially. Mushy pasta ruins the texture of the whole dish. I learned this the hard way after my first attempt came out overly soft.
Layer Your Cheese Strategically
- Mix most of your cheese into the casserole mixture, but save some for the top. The cheese mixed in creates pockets of melty goodness throughout, while the top layer gives you that irresistible golden crust everyone fights over.
Choose the Right Turkey
- Dark meat stays moister in casseroles than white meat. If you're using leftover turkey, a mix of both works perfectly. For ground turkey, go for 93% lean; it has enough fat to keep things juicy without being greasy.
Temperature Matters
- Let your ingredients come to room temperature before mixing if possible. Cold ingredients take longer to heat through and can result in uneven cooking. I usually pull my sour cream and cheese out of the fridge while I'm prepping everything else.
The Secret to Crispy Topping
- Mix your breadcrumbs with melted butter before adding them to the top. This ensures even browning and prevents dry, bland breadcrumbs. Add the Parmesan to the breadcrumb mixture for an extra flavor boost that makes the topping taste like fancy restaurant food.
Moisture Control
- If your casserole mixture looks too dry before baking, add a splash more broth. If it seems too wet, reduce the broth by ¼ cup. The mixture should be creamy but not soupy. You want it to hold together when scooped, not run all over the plate.
Make-Ahead Magic
- Assemble the entire casserole up to 24 hours in advance, cover tightly with plastic wrap, and refrigerate. When ready to bake, add 10 extra minutes to the covered baking time since it's starting cold. This is perfect for busy weeknights or when you're preparing for company.
Recipe Variations & Substitutions
- One of the best things about this easy leftover turkey dinner is how adaptable it is to different tastes and dietary needs. I've made countless versions over the years, and here are my favorite ways to switch things up.
Protein Swaps
- Can't find turkey or want to try something different? Rotisserie chicken works beautifully in this recipe and tastes almost identical. For a budget-friendly option, ground turkey or ground chicken creates a slightly different texture but is equally delicious. I've even made this with leftover ham during the holidays, and it was fantastic.
Grain and Base Options
- While pasta is traditional, this recipe shines with different bases. A turkey and rice casserole using white or brown rice changes the whole texture in a wonderful way. For a low-carb version, I use cauliflower rice; just make sure to squeeze out excess moisture after cooking. Quinoa also works if you're looking for extra protein and a nutty flavor.
Vegetable Additions
- The frozen mixed vegetables are just a starting point. Fresh broccoli florets make this a turkey broccoli cheese casserole that packs in more nutrition. Diced bell peppers add color and sweetness. Mushrooms contribute an earthy depth that complements the cream of mushroom soup perfectly. Spinach wilts beautifully into the mixture and adds iron. For picky eaters, you can skip the vegetables entirely or puree them into the sauce so they're invisible.
Cheese Variations
- While cheddar is classic, mixing cheeses creates interesting flavor profiles. Combine cheddar with Monterey Jack for a milder taste. Add pepper jack if you like a little heat. Gruyere makes it taste more sophisticated and fancy. Mozzarella increases the stretchiness factor that kids love. For the ultimate turkey and cheddar bake, use extra sharp white cheddar.
Southwestern Style
- Transform this into a cheesy turkey enchilada casserole by adding taco seasoning to the turkey, using Mexican cheese blend, and layering in black beans and corn. Top with crushed tortilla chips instead of breadcrumbs. Add a dollop of salsa and sour cream when serving.
Soup Base Alternatives
- Not a fan of cream of mushroom? Cream of chicken soup works perfectly. For a homemade version, make a simple white sauce with butter, flour, and milk, then season with chicken bouillon. Cream of celery soup adds a different flavor profile. For extra richness, use half condensed soup and half heavy cream.
Equipment Recommendations
Making this baked turkey casserole is easier with the right tools. Here's what I reach for every time I make this family dinner casserole idea:
- 9x13-inch Glass or Ceramic Baking Dish ; This is the standard casserole size and distributes heat evenly. Glass lets you see if the bottom is browning properly. Ceramic retains heat longer, keeping your dish warm at the table.
- Large Mixing Bowl ; You need something big enough to combine all the ingredients comfortably without making a mess. I prefer a bowl with a handle for easier mixing.
- Large Pot for Pasta ; Use at least a 4-quart pot so the pasta has room to cook without sticking together. A pasta pot with a built-in strainer makes draining easier.
- Sharp Chef's Knife ; Essential for dicing turkey and vegetables quickly and safely. A dull knife makes prep work frustrating and dangerous.
- Wooden Spoon or Silicone Spatula ; For mixing everything together without scratching your bowls or baking dish. Silicone spatulas are great because they're heat-resistant and get every last bit of mixture out of the bowl.
- Aluminum Foil ; Covers the casserole during the first part of baking to prevent the top from burning before the center heats through.
- Box Grater or Food Processor ; If you're shredding your own cheese (which always melts better than pre-shredded), these make quick work of it.
Budget-Friendly Alternatives: Don't have a proper casserole dish? A large cast-iron skillet works great and can go straight from stovetop to oven. Disposable aluminum pans are perfect for making this creamy turkey casserole with pasta to give to friends or for potlucks.
Storage & Meal Prep Tips
- This quick weeknight turkey casserole is perfect for meal prep and makes fantastic leftovers. Here's how to store it properly so it tastes just as good the second (or third) time around.
Refrigerator Storage
- Allow the casserole to cool completely before covering. Once cool, wrap tightly with plastic wrap or transfer to an airtight container. It will keep in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. I like to portion it into individual servings in glass containers for easy grab-and-go lunches. Reheat portions in the microwave for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through, or warm in a 350°F oven for 15-20 minutes until heated through.
Freezing Instructions
- This comfort food turkey casserole freezes beautifully, making it perfect for make-ahead meals. You can freeze it either before or after baking. For unbaked casseroles, assemble everything in a freezer-safe dish, cover tightly with plastic wrap and then aluminum foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to bake, thaw in the refrigerator overnight, then bake as directed, adding an extra 10 minutes if it's still cold.
- For already-baked casserole, let it cool completely, then wrap individual portions or the whole dish in plastic wrap and foil. Freeze for up to 2 months. Reheat thawed casserole in a 350°F oven covered with foil for about 30 minutes until warmed through.
Make-Ahead Tips
- Prep the components separately up to 2 days ahead. Cook and dice the turkey, shred the cheese, and mix your breadcrumb topping. Store everything in separate containers in the fridge. When you're ready to cook, just cook the pasta, mix everything together, and bake. This saves tons of time on busy evenings.
Portion Control for Meal Prep
- This recipe serves 6-8 people generously. If you're meal prepping for the week, divide the cooked casserole into 6 equal portions in meal prep containers. Each portion reheats perfectly and provides a balanced meal when paired with a side salad or fruit.
The Game-Changer Secret That Makes It Unforgettable
Here's something I discovered by accident that completely transformed my Cheesy Turkey Casserole Recipe into something extraordinary. After making this dish dozens of times, I stumbled upon a trick that adds incredible depth of flavor and keeps the casserole moist without being soggy. The secret? Adding a tablespoon of Dijon mustard and a splash of white wine (or extra broth if you prefer) to the creamy sauce mixture.
The mustard adds a subtle tang that brightens all the flavors without tasting mustard-y at all. It cuts through the richness of the cheese and cream, making each bite more interesting. The wine (or extra broth) adds moisture that prevents the casserole from drying out during baking, especially important if you're reheating leftovers. I also learned to reserve a quarter cup of pasta cooking water and add it to the mixture if it seems too thick; that starchy water helps everything bind together beautifully and creates the creamiest texture imaginable. Since I started using these two simple additions, my Cheesy Turkey Casserole Recipe has gone from "really good weeknight dinner" to "please make this again soon" status in my household.
FAQ
What are the 5 components of a casserole?
Every great casserole, including this Cheesy Turkey Casserole Recipe, has five essential components. First, you need a protein (turkey, chicken, or beef). Second is a starch or grain base like pasta, rice, or potatoes that adds bulk and substance. Third, vegetables add nutrition, color, and texture. Fourth, a binding sauce or liquid (like our cream of mushroom mixture) holds everything together and keeps it moist. Finally, the topping; whether it's cheese, breadcrumbs, or both, provides textural contrast and visual appeal.
What goes with turkey casserole for dinner?
This hearty turkey dinner pairs wonderfully with lighter sides that balance its richness. A crisp green salad with vinaigrette cuts through the creaminess perfectly. Roasted or steamed green beans, asparagus, or broccoli add fresh vegetables without competing for attention. Garlic bread or dinner rolls are great for soaking up any extra sauce. For a complete meal, add a simple fruit salad or sliced apples. The key is keeping sides simple since the Cheesy Turkey Casserole Recipe is already so flavorful and filling.
What is a popular dish made from leftover turkey?
Turkey casseroles are among the most popular ways to use leftover turkey because they're forgiving and feed a crowd. This Cheesy Turkey Casserole Recipe ranks high on the list alongside turkey pot pie, turkey soup, and turkey sandwiches. Casseroles win because they transform leftovers into something that feels completely different from the original meal, and they're easy to customize based on what's in your pantry. Plus, they make enough to feed your family for multiple meals or freeze for later.
What is in turkey casserole?
A basic turkey casserole typically includes cooked turkey, a starch base (pasta, rice, or potatoes), vegetables, a creamy binding sauce, and cheese. Our Cheesy Turkey Casserole Recipe specifically combines diced turkey with pasta, mixed vegetables, cream of mushroom soup, sour cream, cheddar cheese, and a crunchy breadcrumb topping. The exact ingredients can vary based on personal preference and what you have available, making it one of the most adaptable comfort food recipes you can make.
Final Thoughts and More Comfort Food Ideas
I hope this recipe becomes as much of a staple in your kitchen as it has in mine. This Cheesy Turkey Casserole Recipe solves so many dinner dilemmas; it's quick enough for weeknights, impressive enough for company, and uses ingredients you probably already have. The combination of tender turkey, creamy sauce, and gooey cheese wrapped in a crunchy topping hits every comfort food note perfectly.
Once you've mastered this Cheesy Turkey Casserole Recipe, you might want to try other comforting dishes that bring that same cozy feeling to the table. The BBQ Pulled Pork Mac and Cheese Recipe combines two comfort food favorites into one incredible dish that's smoky, cheesy, and absolutely addictive. If you're in the mood for something a bit more elegant but equally satisfying, the Butternut Squash Ravioli with Sage Butter Recipe offers rich, seasonal flavors that feel special without being complicated. Both recipes share that same make-ahead friendly quality and feed-a-crowd appeal that makes this Cheesy Turkey Casserole Recipe so practical for busy families.
Don't forget to leave a comment below sharing how your casserole turned out! I love hearing about your variations and what your family thought of this recipe. If you enjoyed this dish, please share it with friends who might be looking for easy dinner solutions. Happy cooking, and here's to many more delicious, stress-free dinners!
With love-By Lisa Johnson ✨
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Pairing
These are my favorite dishes to serve with Cheesy Turkey Casserole Recipe
Cheesy Turkey Casserole Recipe
Equipment
- 1 9x13-inch glass or ceramic baking dish Standard casserole size, distributes heat evenly
- 1 Large mixing bowl For combining all ingredients
- 1 Large pot for pasta At least 4-quart, prevents sticking
- 1 Sharp Chef’s Knife For dicing turkey and vegetables
- 1 Wooden spoon or silicone spatula For mixing
- 1 Aluminum foil To cover during baking
- 1 Box grater or food processor For shredding cheese
Ingredients
- 3 cups cooked turkey, diced or shredded Leftovers or rotisserie chicken; ground turkey also works
- 12 oz pasta (penne, rotini, or egg noodles) Or 3 cups cooked rice for variation
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese Sharp cheddar preferred; mix with mozzarella if desired
- 1 cup sour cream Greek yogurt as lighter option
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup Substitute cream of chicken if preferred
- 1 cup chicken or turkey broth Or vegetable broth
- 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables Peas, carrots, corn; broccoli as variation
- 1 medium onion, diced Optional for time-saving
- 2 cloves garlic, minced Enhances flavor
- 1 cup breadcrumbs or crushed crackers For crunchy topping
- 2 tablespoon melted butter Mix with breadcrumbs
- ½ cup Parmesan cheese, shredded Adds extra flavor to topping
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon dried thyme or Italian seasoning
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9x13 dish.
- Cook pasta until just al dente, drain.
- Cook raw ground turkey if using, season lightly.
- Dice cooked turkey, chop onion, mince garlic.
- Mix soup, broth, sour cream in bowl; add onion, garlic, veggies, seasonings.
- Fold in pasta and turkey, mix in 1.5 cups cheddar.
- Spread mixture in baking dish, top with remaining cheese.
- Combine breadcrumbs, butter, Parmesan; scatter over casserole.
- Cover with foil, bake 25 min; uncover and bake 15–20 min until golden.
- Rest 5–10 min before serving.
Notes
- Nutrition information is automatically calculated, so should only be used as an approximation.
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