The Heartiest Turkey Noodle Casserole Recipe for Cozy Nights

Comfort arrives with this hearty turkey noodle casserole that transforms leftover poultry into a delightful meal.

Creamy layers of pasta and tender meat create a satisfying dish perfect for chilly evenings.

Cheesy goodness melts between soft noodles and savory turkey pieces.

Warm memories of home cooking shine through each delectable bite.

Pantry staples come together easily, making this recipe a weeknight champion.

Families adore how quickly this casserole assembles with minimal fuss.

You’ll want to savor every comforting spoonful of this classic dinner favorite.

Turkey Noodle Casserole Breakdown

• Rescue Leftovers: Transform spare turkey into a delicious, hearty meal that breathes new life into yesterday's roasted bird, reducing food waste and saving money.
• Comfort Food Champion: Packed with creamy sauce, tender noodles, and savory turkey, this casserole delivers pure comfort that hugs your taste buds and warms your soul.
• Family-Friendly Feast: Kids and adults alike will love this simple, nutritious one-dish wonder that combines protein, vegetables, and cheesy goodness in every single bite.
• Simple Weeknight Winner: Requires minimal prep work, uses basic pantry ingredients, and comes together quickly for a stress-free dinner solution that satisfies hungry families.

Ingredients for Turkey Noodle Casserole

• Turkey: A lean protein that adds hearty flavor and substance to the casserole.

• Egg Noodles: A classic pasta that provides a soft and comforting foundation for the casserole.

• Onions, Garlic: Aromatic ingredients that build a rich flavor base for the dish.
• Frozen Peas, Carrots: Colorful vegetables that add nutrition and sweetness to the casserole.

• Cream of Mushroom Soup: A classic binding ingredient that creates a creamy and smooth sauce.
• Milk: Helps to thin the soup and create a luscious texture.

• Salt, Pepper: Essential seasonings that enhance the overall flavor profile of the casserole.

• Shredded Cheese: Adds a melty and golden layer of deliciousness on top of the casserole.
• Breadcrumbs: Provides a crispy and crunchy texture to the dish.

• Butter: Used for sautéing vegetables and adding richness to the recipe.

How to Prepare Turkey Noodle Casserole

Step 1: Warm Up the Oven

Fire up your oven to a cozy 350 degrees Fahrenheit, getting it ready for a delicious comfort food adventure.

Step 2: Prepare the Noodle Base

Boil the egg noodles following the package instructions, then drain them and set aside, keeping them ready for the next stage of culinary magic.

Step 3: Sizzle the Aromatics

In a large skillet, melt butter and dance the onions and garlic around until they become soft and fragrant, releasing their mouth-watering flavors.

Step 4: Create the Creamy Sauce

Blend in the cream of mushroom soup and milk, then sprinkle in salt and pepper to give the sauce a delightful kick of seasoning.

Step 5: Fold in the Protein and Veggies

• Frozen peas
• Carrots

Let them mingle and get acquainted with the creamy sauce.

Step 6: Assemble the Casserole

Transfer the noodles into the skillet and combine them with the turkey and vegetable mixture, creating a harmonious blend of textures and tastes.

Step 7: Add the Crispy Topping

Shower the casserole with a blanket of shredded cheese and sprinkle breadcrumbs on top for that irresistible golden crunch.

Step 8: Bake to Perfection

Slide the casserole into the preheated oven and let it bake for 25-30 minutes until it’s bubbling with excitement and the top turns a beautiful golden brown.

Step 9: Serve and Savor

Pull out the casserole, let it cool for a moment, then serve it warm, ready to comfort and delight everyone at the table.

Tips for Turkey Noodle Casserole

• Swap regular noodles with whole wheat or gluten-free options for a healthier twist on this comforting casserole.
• Enhance flavor by using homemade cream of mushroom soup instead of canned for a more robust taste.
• Add extra vegetables like spinach or mushrooms to boost nutrition and create more depth in the dish.
• Prep ingredients ahead of time to make assembly quick and easy during busy weeknights.
• Freeze individual portions for a convenient make-ahead meal that reheats perfectly for quick lunches or dinners.

Flavor Variations for Turkey Noodle Casserole

• Vegetarian Comfort Casserole: Replace turkey with firm tofu or plant-based chicken alternative, using vegetable broth instead of milk for a dairy-free option.
• Gluten-Free Noodle Bake: Swap egg noodles with gluten-free pasta, use gluten-free breadcrumbs, and select a certified gluten-free cream of mushroom soup.
• Chicken Swap Casserole: Substitute turkey with rotisserie chicken or leftover roasted chicken for a quick protein change that maintains the recipe's creamy texture.
• Low-Carb Cauliflower Version: Replace noodles with riced cauliflower, use low-carb cream sauce, and add extra vegetables like zucchini and spinach for a nutritious alternative.

Serving Suggestions for Turkey Noodle Casserole

• Comfort Plate Paradise: Pair this hearty casserole with a crisp green salad to balance the rich, creamy texture.
• Leftover Magic: Transform next-day portions into delightful lunch wraps by heating and rolling in fresh tortillas with extra cheese.
• Weekend Family Feast: Serve alongside roasted seasonal vegetables like Brussels sprouts or honey-glazed carrots to create a complete, satisfying meal that everyone will love.
• Quick Potluck Hero: Bring this crowd-pleasing dish to gatherings, guaranteed to impress friends and family with its warm, comforting flavors and easy preparation.

Storage Tips for Turkey Noodle Casserole

• Refrigerate leftover casserole in an airtight container within 2 hours of cooking to prevent bacterial growth.
• Store turkey noodle casserole in the refrigerator for 3-4 days maximum for optimal taste and safety.
• Wrap the casserole tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil to maintain moisture and prevent refrigerator odors.
• Use shallow containers for faster cooling and more even temperature distribution.

FAQs

• Can I use chicken instead of turkey?

Yes, you can easily substitute cooked chicken for turkey in this casserole recipe. Chicken works perfectly and provides a similar flavor and texture.

• Is it possible to make this casserole ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the entire casserole, cover it, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. Just add an extra 10-15 minutes to the baking time if it’s coming straight from the refrigerator.

• What if I don't have breadcrumbs?

No problem! You can use crushed crackers, panko, or even crushed potato chips as a crunchy topping alternative. Each option will add a nice crispy texture to the casserole.

Quick Turkey Noodle Casserole Recipe

---

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.6 from 8 reviews

• Total Time: 55 minutes
• Yield: 6 1x

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

Description

Comforting turkey noodle casserole brings nostalgic midwest flavors to dinner tables. Creamy layers of tender pasta, hearty turkey, and melted cheese create a satisfying meal you’ll crave again and again.

---

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Main Protein:

• 2 cups cooked turkey (shredded or diced)

Noodles and Vegetables:

• 8 ounces (226 grams) egg noodles
• 1 cup frozen peas and carrots
• 1/2 cup onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced

Sauce and Topping:

• 1 (10.5 ounces/298 milliliters) can cream of mushroom soup
• 1/2 cup milk
• 1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

---

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C), ensuring the rack is positioned in the center.
2. Cook egg noodles in boiling salted water according to package instructions, then thoroughly drain and set aside.
3. Melt butter in a large skillet over medium heat, sautéing diced onions and minced garlic until translucent and fragrant.
4. Whisk cream of mushroom soup and milk into the skillet, creating a smooth sauce. Season with salt and pepper to enhance flavors.
5. Fold shredded turkey, frozen peas, and diced carrots into the creamy sauce, ensuring even distribution of ingredients.
6. Transfer the noodles to a large casserole dish, then pour the turkey and vegetable mixture over the noodles, gently mixing to coat evenly.
7. Sprinkle shredded cheese across the top of the casserole, creating a generous layer of coverage.
8. Scatter breadcrumbs over the cheese, providing a crunchy texture to the dish.
9. Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes until the top turns golden brown and the edges bubble enthusiastically.
10. Remove from oven and let rest for 5 minutes before serving to allow the casserole to set and cool slightly.

Notes

• Swap regular egg noodles for whole wheat or gluten-free alternatives to accommodate different dietary needs.
• Use low-fat cream of mushroom soup and reduce cheese quantity for a lighter version of the casserole.
• Enhance flavor complexity by adding herbs like thyme or rosemary to the turkey mixture for extra depth.
• Prepare casserole ahead of time and refrigerate unbaked, then cook when ready to serve for convenient meal planning.

• Prep Time: 25 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Lunch, Dinner
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 6
• Calories: 350 kcal
• Sugar: 4 g
• Sodium: 600 mg
• Fat: 15 g
• Saturated Fat: 7 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 6 g
• Trans Fat: 0.5 g
• Carbohydrates: 30 g
• Fiber: 3 g
• Protein: 25 g
• Cholesterol: 60 mg