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Creamy Turkey and Cheese Pasta Casserole Recipe

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★★★★★

4.5 from 66 reviews

This Creamy Turkey Casserole with Cheese and Pasta is a comforting and hearty dish perfect for using up leftover turkey. Rich cheddar and cream cheese create a luscious sauce blended with tender pasta, peas, and savory seasonings. Baked to golden perfection and garnished with fresh parsley, this casserole is a family-friendly meal that is both satisfying and easy to prepare.

Ingredients

Scale

Casserole Ingredients

  • 3 cups Cooked Turkey Breast (Shredded or diced)
  • 3 cups Cooked Pasta (e.g., elbow macaroni, penne, or rotini)
  • 1 cup Frozen Peas (Optional; can swap with other veggies)
  • Fresh Parsley for garnish

Cheese Sauce Ingredients

  • 8 ounces Shredded Sharp Cheddar Cheese (Gouda or mozzarella can be alternatives)
  • 8 ounces Cream Cheese (Greek yogurt is a healthier swap)
  • 2 cups Whole Milk (Half-and-half can also be used)
  • 1 medium Onion (Finely chopped)
  • 2 cloves Garlic (Minced)
  • 1 cup Grated Parmesan Cheese
  • 2 tablespoons Butter
  • 2 tablespoons All-Purpose Flour (Gluten-free flour is an option)
  • 1 teaspoon Dried Thyme (Or Italian seasoning)
  • Salt to taste
  • Freshly Ground Black Pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Preheat Oven and Cook Pasta: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook until al dente, about 7-9 minutes. Drain the pasta and set aside.
  2. Sauté Aromatics: In a skillet over medium heat, melt 2 tablespoons of butter. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until translucent. Add minced garlic and cook for another minute, stirring frequently to avoid burning.
  3. Create Roux: Sprinkle 2 tablespoons of all-purpose flour evenly over the sautéed onion and garlic. Whisk constantly for 1-2 minutes to cook out the raw flour taste and form a roux.
  4. Add Milk and Thicken Sauce: Gradually pour in 2 cups of whole milk while continuously whisking to avoid lumps. Continue cooking and stirring for about 5 minutes until the mixture thickens to a creamy sauce consistency.
  5. Incorporate Cheeses and Season: Reduce heat to low, and add cream cheese and shredded cheddar cheese to the sauce. Stir continuously until the cheeses fully melt and the sauce is smooth. Season with salt, freshly ground black pepper, and dried thyme or Italian seasoning to taste.
  6. Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, shredded turkey, frozen peas (if using), and cheese sauce. Gently fold the mixture until everything is well coated with the creamy sauce.
  7. Assemble Casserole: Transfer the mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the top of the casserole.
  8. Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes until the casserole is bubbly and the top is golden brown.
  9. Rest and Garnish: Remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving.

Notes

  • You can substitute pasta types such as penne, rotini, or macaroni based on preference or availability.
  • For a healthier version, use Greek yogurt instead of cream cheese and half-and-half instead of whole milk.
  • Vegetables like broccoli or mushrooms can be used instead of peas.
  • Gluten-free flour can be used to make the dish gluten-free.
  • Leftover cooked turkey or rotisserie chicken works well for this casserole.
  • Make sure to not overcook the pasta to prevent softness after baking.
  • The casserole can be prepared in advance and baked just before serving.

Keywords: cream cheese turkey casserole, baked turkey pasta, cheesy turkey casserole, turkey pasta bake, comforting casserole, easy turkey dinner

Find it online: https://ricoloranz.com/creamy-turkey-and-cheese-pasta-casserole-recipe/