If you're searching for a comforting meal that’s easy to prepare, full of flavor, and a great way to use leftover turkey, this Turkey Noodle Casserole Recipe is just what you need! Not only is it a heartwarming dish that the entire family will enjoy, but it’s also versatile and can be adjusted to your taste. Keep reading to discover how to create this mouthwatering dish that’s perfect for weeknight dinners, holiday leftovers, or just when you’re craving something wholesome and satisfying. Follow the steps below and give this classic comfort food a try!
What Is a Turkey Noodle Casserole?
Turkey noodle casserole is a classic comfort food that combines tender turkey meat, cooked noodles, and a creamy sauce, baked to perfection. This dish is not only delicious but also incredibly easy to prepare, making it an excellent option for busy weeknights or a cozy family meal. It’s a great way to make use of leftover turkey from Thanksgiving or any other roast turkey you have on hand.
The beauty of this casserole is its versatility. You can adjust the ingredients to suit your preferences or what you have available in your kitchen. Keep reading for the full ingredients list, step-by-step cooking instructions, and helpful tips to create the best turkey noodle casserole ever!
Ingredients List for Turkey Noodle Casserole
Before you get started, gather all your ingredients to make sure you’re ready to go. Here’s what you’ll need:
Main Ingredients:
- Cooked turkey (2-3 cups, shredded or cubed)
- Egg noodles (12 oz, cooked according to package instructions)
- Cream of mushroom soup (1 can, 10.5 oz)
- Cream of chicken soup (1 can, 10.5 oz)
- Milk (1 cup)
- Frozen peas (1 cup)
- Shredded cheddar cheese (1 ½ cups, divided)
- Onion (1 medium, chopped)
- Garlic (2 cloves, minced)
- Butter (2 tablespoons)
- Breadcrumbs (½ cup, optional for topping)
- Salt (½ teaspoon)
- Pepper (½ teaspoon)
- Parsley (2 tablespoons, chopped, optional for garnish)
Optional Add-ins:
- Carrots (1 cup, thinly sliced)
- Celery (1 cup, chopped)
- Corn (1 cup, can be substituted for peas)
- Mushrooms (½ cup, sliced)
These ingredients form the base of your turkey noodle casserole. You can experiment with adding more vegetables or changing up the types of cheeses for a personalized twist on this classic dish.
Substitutions and Variations
This turkey noodle casserole is highly adaptable, making it easy to suit different preferences and dietary needs. Here are a few substitutions and variations to consider:
- Turkey Substitution: You can replace turkey with chicken if that’s what you have on hand. Leftover rotisserie chicken works beautifully in this recipe. You could also use ground turkey if you prefer a lighter option.
- Vegetable Variations: Feel free to swap out vegetables based on what’s in your fridge. Broccoli, green beans, or spinach are great additions or alternatives to peas and carrots.
- Soup Options: If you’re not a fan of cream of mushroom or cream of chicken soup, you can use cream of celery or even make your own cream-based sauce using heavy cream and flour for a homemade touch.
- Cheese Options: While cheddar cheese is a popular choice, you can experiment with mozzarella, parmesan, or even Monterey Jack for a different flavor profile.
- Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free noodles and ensure that your soups are gluten-free as well. Some brands offer gluten-free cream soups that work perfectly in this dish.
- Pasta Options: If you don't have egg noodles, you can substitute with other pasta types like penne, rotini, or macaroni.
These substitutions and variations allow you to make the dish fit your dietary needs or just to change things up for a new take on the classic casserole.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Ready to get cooking? Follow these simple steps to create a delicious turkey noodle casserole that your family will love:
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9x13-inch casserole dish with butter or cooking spray to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Cook the Noodles
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the egg noodles and cook according to package directions, usually about 7-8 minutes. Drain the noodles and set them aside.
Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables
In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, garlic, carrots, and celery (if using). Sauté for 5-7 minutes, until the vegetables are soft and the onions are translucent.
Step 4: Combine Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked turkey, sautéed vegetables, frozen peas (or other vegetables), cooked noodles, cream of mushroom soup, cream of chicken soup, milk, salt, and pepper. Stir until everything is well-mixed and coated in the creamy sauce.
Step 5: Assemble the Casserole
Pour the turkey and noodle mixture into the prepared casserole dish. Spread it out evenly, then sprinkle 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese on top.
Step 6: Add the Topping (Optional)
For an extra crispy topping, mix the breadcrumbs with a tablespoon of melted butter and sprinkle them over the top of the casserole. This step is optional, but it adds a lovely crunch!
Step 7: Bake
Place the casserole dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, until the casserole is hot and bubbly and the cheese is melted and golden brown.
Step 8: Garnish and Serve
Once the casserole is done baking, remove it from the oven. Let it cool for a few minutes, then sprinkle with chopped parsley for a fresh, colorful garnish. Serve hot and enjoy!
How to Cook Turkey Noodle Casserole: A Step-by-Step Guide
Cooking a turkey noodle casserole is straightforward and enjoyable. Here’s a breakdown of the entire process to make it even easier for you:
- Preheat the oven and prepare the baking dish.
- Cook the noodles and drain them.
- Sauté the vegetables to add flavor and texture.
- Combine all ingredients (turkey, noodles, veggies, soups, cheese, and seasoning) in a large mixing bowl.
- Assemble the casserole by spreading the mixture in the prepared dish and adding a cheese topping.
- Bake until golden and bubbly, usually for about 30 minutes.
- Garnish and serve hot with a side salad or bread.
Following this step-by-step guide ensures that your casserole turns out creamy, cheesy, and packed with flavor every time.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
To guarantee success, avoid these common mistakes when making your turkey noodle casserole:
- Overcooking the Noodles: Be careful not to overcook your noodles during the boiling stage. Slightly undercooking them ensures they don’t become mushy when baked.
- Using Cold Ingredients: It’s a good idea to let your ingredients (like turkey and vegetables) come to room temperature before combining them. This ensures even cooking and a better texture.
- Skipping the Topping: The breadcrumb and cheese topping add a delightful crunch and flavor to the casserole. Don’t skip this step if you want that golden, crispy layer!
- Not Seasoning Enough: The cream soups add flavor, but don’t forget to season your dish with salt, pepper, and optional herbs to bring out the best flavors.
Serving and Presentation Tips
Your turkey noodle casserole will taste amazing, but the way you serve and present it can elevate the experience even more. Here are some serving and presentation ideas:
How to Serve Turkey Noodle Casserole
- Serve the casserole hot, straight from the oven, with a side of steamed vegetables, a green salad, or a slice of garlic bread.
- This dish pairs wonderfully with a crisp white wine like Chardonnay or a refreshing iced tea.
- For a heartier meal, consider serving it with mashed potatoes or roasted sweet potatoes.
Presentation Ideas for Turkey Noodle Casserole
- Garnish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley, chopped chives, or even parmesan cheese for a professional touch.
- Serve in a rustic dish or individual ramekins for a more personal and charming presentation.
- Place the casserole on a large wooden cutting board with serving utensils for a homestyle, family-style vibe.
Turkey Noodle Casserole Recipe Tips
- Leftovers: Store any leftover casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave.
- Make-Ahead: You can assemble the casserole up to 24 hours in advance and refrigerate it before baking. Just increase the baking time by 5-10 minutes if baking straight from the fridge.
- Freezing: This casserole freezes well! Simply assemble the casserole, cover it tightly with aluminum foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before baking.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I use different types of pasta?
Yes! While egg noodles are traditional, you can use penne, macaroni, or rotini as substitutes.
2. How can I make this dish gluten-free?
Use gluten-free noodles and ensure your cream soups are gluten-free. Many brands offer gluten-free versions of cream of mushroom and cream of chicken soups.
3. Can I make this casserole in advance?
Absolutely. You can prepare it up to a day in advance and store it in the fridge. Bake it when you're ready to serve.
4. How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven.
5. Can I freeze turkey noodle casserole?
Yes! It freezes beautifully. Store in a freezer-safe dish and thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Conclusion
Turkey noodle casserole is the perfect way to enjoy a wholesome, comforting meal that’s simple to prepare and highly adaptable. Whether you’re using leftover turkey from a holiday feast or cooking it fresh for the occasion, this recipe delivers a delicious, creamy, and satisfying meal every time. With options for substitutions, variations, and helpful tips for serving and storing, you’ll find this recipe is a keeper that can easily be adjusted to your family’s tastes. Enjoy your turkey noodle casserole and feel free to get creative with your ingredients!
PrintTurkey Noodle Casserole Recipe
Turkey noodle casserole is a creamy and flavorful dish featuring tender turkey, noodles, and a cheesy topping. Perfect for weeknight dinners or using up leftover turkey, this casserole is a satisfying comfort food. Keywords: turkey casserole, noodle bake, leftover turkey recipe.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Ingredients
- Cooked turkey, shredded or cubed
- Egg noodles
- Cream of mushroom soup
- Milk
- Shredded cheddar cheese
- Frozen peas
- Onion
- Garlic
- Butter
- Salt & pepper
- Bread crumbs (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Cook egg noodles according to package instructions.
- In a large skillet, melt butter and sauté onions and garlic until soft.
- Mix together soup, milk, cheese, peas, and cooked turkey in a large bowl.
- Combine the cooked noodles and sauce mixture. Pour into a casserole dish.
- Top with bread crumbs or additional cheese if desired.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes until bubbly and golden.
Notes
- Use leftover turkey or substitute with chicken.
- Add vegetables like broccoli or carrots for more nutrition.
- Top with crispy onions or breadcrumbs for extra texture.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 420 kcal
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 820mg
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