This Amish Turkey Casserole is a cozy dish filled with tender turkey, creamy sauce, and tasty veggies. It’s like a warm hug in a bowl!
I love making this on a chilly night because it’s simple and filling. Plus, leftovers are perfect for lunch—if they last that long! 🍽️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cooked Turkey: Leftover turkey is perfect here, especially after Thanksgiving! If you don’t have turkey, shredded chicken works well too.
Rice: I like using white rice, but brown rice or quinoa can also add a nice nutty flavor and extra nutrients to your casserole.
Cream Soups: The cream of mushroom and cream of chicken add creaminess. You can substitute with homemade versions or opt for cream of celery or vegetable soup for a lighter option.
Sour Cream: Regular sour cream gives richness. You can swap it for Greek yogurt for a healthier twist or dairy-free yogurt if needed.
Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar adds great flavor. You could use Monterey Jack or mozzarella for a milder taste, or leave cheese out entirely for a lighter dish.
How Do I Ensure Even Cooking and Flavor in My Casserole?
To make sure your casserole is evenly cooked and flavorful, here are some tips:
- Mix ingredients well: Make sure all turkey, rice, and veggies are coated with the soup mixture.
- Don’t skip resting: Allow the casserole to sit for a few minutes after baking. This helps it set and makes serving easier.
- Check for doneness: Cook until bubbly and golden brown on top for best texture and flavor.
- Experiment with veggies: Adding peas or corn can boost flavor, texture, and nutrition in the casserole.
Amish Turkey Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Casserole:
- 4 cups cooked turkey, shredded or diced
- 3 cups cooked white rice
- 1 cup diced celery
- 1 cup diced onion
- 1 cup diced carrot
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 cup milk
For the Topping:
- 1 cup crushed buttery crackers or breadcrumbs
- 2 tablespoons butter, melted
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish, optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious casserole takes about 15 minutes to prepare and 30-40 minutes to bake. So in just under an hour, you can have a comforting meal ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch casserole dish to prevent sticking. This will make it easier to serve later!
2. Mix the Casserole Ingredients:
In a large bowl, combine the cooked turkey, cooked rice, diced celery, onion, and carrot. This mixture is packed with flavor and texture!
3. Prepare the Sauce:
In another bowl, mix together the cream of mushroom soup, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir until everything is smooth and well blended.
4. Combine Everything:
Pour the creamy soup mixture over the turkey and rice mixture. Stir well to make sure all ingredients are coated evenly.
5. Add Cheese:
Fold in 1 1/2 cups of the shredded cheddar cheese into the mixture for that cheesy goodness!
6. Transfer to the Dish:
Carefully transfer the turkey mixture to the prepared casserole dish, spreading it out evenly.
7. Prepare the Topping:
In a small bowl, mix the crushed crackers or breadcrumbs with the melted butter. This will create a delicious, crunchy topping!
8. Add the Topping:
Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of cheddar cheese over the casserole followed by the buttery cracker mixture, ensuring it covers the top nicely.
9. Bake the Casserole:
Place the casserole in the oven and bake uncovered for 30-40 minutes. Keep an eye on it until the top is golden brown and bubbly!
10. Cool and Serve:
Once done, remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. This waiting time will help it set a little, making it easier to serve.
11. Garnish and Enjoy:
Before serving, you can sprinkle some chopped fresh parsley on top if you like. This adds a lovely color and a fresh taste!
Enjoy your comforting and hearty Amish Turkey Casserole with your friends and family! It’s a dish that’s sure to warm everyone’s hearts!
Can I Use Leftover Thanksgiving Turkey for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Leftover turkey is perfect for this casserole. Just make sure it’s shredded or diced before adding it to the mix for even cooking and flavor.
What Can I Substitute for Cream of Mushroom Soup?
If you’re not a fan of cream of mushroom soup, you can use cream of celery or cream of chicken soup instead. Homemade versions using a mix of milk, flour, and mushrooms can also work beautifully!
Can This Dish Be Frozen for Later?
Yes, you can freeze the casserole before baking. Just assemble it in the dish, cover it tightly, and freeze for up to 2-3 months. When you’re ready to bake, thaw it in the fridge overnight and bake as directed.
How Do I Make This Recipe Healthier?
To lighten it up, use brown rice in place of white rice, swap sour cream for Greek yogurt, and choose low-fat cheeses. You can also add more vegetables like spinach or bell peppers for added nutrition!
