Turkey Noodle Casserole
Turkey Noodle Casserole is one of those all-in-one comfort dishes that feels like a warm hug on a plate. It combines tender turkey, soft noodles, and a creamy sauce that…
Tip: save now, cook later.Turkey Noodle Casserole is one of those all-in-one comfort dishes that feels like a warm hug on a plate. It combines tender turkey, soft noodles, and a creamy sauce that binds everything together beautifully. There’s something so satisfying about the way the flavors blend, making it a perfect choice for a family dinner or a cozy night in.
I love making this casserole because it’s a great way to use up leftover turkey, and it comes together quickly without a lot of fuss. One tip I always follow is to add a little bit of cheese on top before baking—it gives the casserole a golden, bubbly finish that everyone loves. It’s simple, but it really makes a difference!
When I serve this turkey noodle casserole, I usually pair it with a crisp green salad or some steamed veggies to balance out the richness. It’s one of those recipes that’s easy to customize, too—feel free to toss in your favorite herbs or add mushrooms and peas for extra flavor. No matter how you make it, this casserole has a way of bringing people together around the table.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Turkey: Leftover cooked turkey works great here. It adds wonderful flavor and protein. If you don’t have turkey, cooked chicken or even tofu cubes can work as a substitute.
Egg Noodles: These give the casserole a soft and tender texture. You can swap them for any other pasta you like, such as rotini or penne. Just be sure to cook them al dente so they don’t get mushy.
Cream Soups: The cream of mushroom and cream of chicken soups create the creamy sauce. For a lighter version, use low-fat or homemade cream soups. You can even substitute with a simple white sauce made from butter, flour, and milk.
Vegetables: Frozen peas and carrots add color and sweetness. Feel free to add other vegetables like corn, green beans, or mushrooms for extra flavor and nutrition.
Crunchy Topping: Buttery crackers or breadcrumbs make a crispy crust. If you prefer gluten-free, use gluten-free crackers or crushed nuts for crunch.
How Can I Make Sure My Casserole Is Creamy but Not Soggy?
Balancing the creaminess and texture is key. Here’s how I do it:
- Cook noodles just until al dente—they’ll finish cooking in the oven, so they shouldn’t be too soft.
- Drain frozen vegetables well to avoid extra moisture.
- Mix the cream soups and milk thoroughly so the sauce is smooth and coats the ingredients evenly.
- Don’t cover the casserole while baking; this lets the topping crisp up nicely.
- Let the casserole rest 5 minutes after baking. This helps the sauce thicken slightly for perfect slicing.
Following these steps keeps the noodles creamy and the top crunchy—just how a good casserole should be!
Equipment You’ll Need
- 9×13-inch baking dish – perfect size for even cooking and easy serving.
- Large mixing bowl – to combine all your ingredients smoothly without spills.
- Medium saucepan – handy for cooking noodles or warming sauce if needed.
- Measuring cups and spoons – helps keep your recipe balanced and consistent.
- Wooden spoon or spatula – great for stirring without scratching your bowls or pans.
- Small bowl – to mix butter with breadcrumbs for the crunchy topping easily.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap turkey for cooked chicken or leftover ham to change up the protein but keep that comforting feel.
- Add sautéed mushrooms or caramelized onions for extra depth and softness.
- Mix in shredded mozzarella or Swiss cheese instead of cheddar for a milder, creamy finish.
- Stir in cooked green beans or broccoli for more veggies and fresh color in the casserole.
How to Make Turkey Noodle Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 3 cups cooked turkey, shredded or diced
- 3 cups egg noodles, cooked and drained
- 1 cup frozen peas
- 1 cup diced carrots (fresh or frozen)
- 1/3 cup diced celery (optional)
- 1/2 cup finely chopped onion
For The Creamy Sauce:
- 1 can (10.5 oz) condensed cream of mushroom soup
- 1 can (10.5 oz) condensed cream of chicken soup
- 1 cup milk
- 1 tsp dried thyme or poultry seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
For The Topping:
- 1 cup crushed buttery crackers or breadcrumbs
- 2 tbsp butter, melted
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes of preparation time and 30-35 minutes to bake. After baking, allow 5 minutes for resting before serving. So, in total, expect around 50 minutes from start to finish.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare Your Oven and Dish:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking.
2. Mix the Main Ingredients:
In a large bowl, combine the cooked turkey, cooked egg noodles, frozen peas, diced carrots, celery (if using), and chopped onion. Gently mix them together so everything is evenly distributed.
3. Make the Creamy Sauce:
In a separate bowl, whisk together the cream of mushroom soup, cream of chicken soup, milk, dried thyme or poultry seasoning. Add salt and pepper to taste. Make sure the sauce is smooth and well combined.
4. Combine the Sauce and Ingredients:
Pour this creamy mixture over the bowl with turkey and noodles. Stir gently to coat everything evenly with the sauce.
5. Assemble the Casserole:
Transfer the entire mixture into your prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly. If you like, sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the top for extra gooeyness.
6. Add the Crispy Topping:
In a small bowl, mix the crushed crackers or breadcrumbs with the melted butter. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the casserole to create a golden, crunchy topping.
7. Bake:
Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake uncovered for about 30-35 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the casserole is bubbly and the topping turns a nice golden brown.
8. Rest and Serve:
Remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest for about 5 minutes. This helps the flavors settle and makes it easier to serve. Finally, garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a bit of color and freshness.
Enjoy your delicious, creamy Turkey Noodle Casserole! It’s a comforting dish that works wonderfully for family dinners or anytime you want a warm, satisfying meal.
Can I Use Frozen Turkey for This Casserole?
Yes! Just be sure to fully thaw the turkey in the fridge overnight and pat it dry before adding it to the casserole to avoid extra moisture.
Can I Make Turkey Noodle Casserole Ahead of Time?
Definitely! Prepare the casserole up to the baking step, then cover and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready, bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes if it’s cold from the fridge.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave until warmed through.
What Can I Substitute for Cream of Mushroom or Cream of Chicken Soup?
If you prefer, use homemade white sauce (béchamel) or a dairy-free cream soup alternative. This lets you control ingredients and customize the flavor to your liking.