Description
Creamy Turkey Casserole with Cheese and Pasta is a warm, comforting, and satisfying baked dish featuring tender turkey pieces, al dente pasta, and a rich creamy sauce topped with melted shredded mozzarella cheese (vegetal) for a golden, gooey crust perfect for family meals or cozy solo dinners.
Ingredients
Scale
Protein
- 2 cups cooked turkey, chopped into bite-sized pieces
Pasta
- 2 cups elbow macaroni or penne pasta
Creamy Sauce
- 1 cup milk
- 2 oz cream cheese
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
Cheese Topping
- 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese (vegetal)
Vegetables (Optional)
- 1/2 cup peas or spinach
- Optional: 1/2 cup chopped mushrooms, bell peppers, or zucchini
Optional Flavor Enhancers
- Dash of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes for spice
- 1/4 cup diced smoked turkey bacon or smoked turkey slices for smoky flavor
Instructions
- Prep the Pasta and Turkey: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook your pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside. Meanwhile, chop cooked turkey into bite-sized pieces and prepare your vegetables if using.
- Make the Creamy Sauce: In a skillet over medium heat, sauté finely chopped onion and garlic until softened. Add a splash of milk and cream cheese, stirring continuously until melted and smooth. Season with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika to taste.
- Combine Pasta, Turkey, and Sauce: In a large mixing bowl, fold together the cooked pasta, chopped turkey, vegetables (if using), and creamy sauce until everything is evenly coated and creamy.
- Assemble the Casserole: Transfer the mixture to a greased casserole dish. Sprinkle a generous layer of shredded mozzarella cheese (vegetal) over the top to create a deliciously cheesy crust.
- Bake to Perfection: Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 25-30 minutes or until the cheese topping is melted, bubbly, and lightly golden. Let cool for a few minutes before serving.
Notes
- Avoid overcooking pasta; cook just until al dente as it will continue to cook in the oven.
- Use freshly shredded mozzarella cheese (vegetal) for better melting and texture.
- Season gradually, tasting the sauce before assembling to balance salt, pepper, and paprika.
- For extra crunch, sprinkle breadcrumbs on top with the cheese before baking.
- Allow the casserole to rest slightly after baking for easier serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Sugar: 3 g
- Sodium: 550 mg
- Fat: 15 g
- Saturated Fat: 7 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 30 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 22 g
- Cholesterol: 65 mg
Keywords: creamy turkey casserole, turkey pasta bake, cheesy turkey casserole, comfort food, easy dinner, baked pasta