Smoked Turkey Casserole: A Mouth-Watering Delight!

Are you tired of the same old turkey recipes? Do you have leftover turkey that needs a new twist? Look no further than my Smoked Turkey Casserole recipe. This dish combines rich, smoky flavors with comforting pasta and vegetables for a satisfying meal that will leave your taste buds begging for more.

Using leftover smoked turkey adds depth of flavor and complexity to this classic casserole recipe. With just a few simple ingredients, this dish can be easily prepared and served as a one-pot meal for those busy weeknights or as a crowd-pleasing dish at family gatherings.

I developed this recipe during my years as a BBQ chef, and it quickly became a customer favorite. Now, I’m sharing it with you so that you can enjoy the bold flavors and easy preparation in the comfort of your own kitchen. So grab your apron and let’s get cooking!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Smoked Turkey Casserole
Smoked Turkey Casserole

Picture a hearty and soulful meal that will suit any season and satisfy every palate. This smoked turkey casserole is a comfort food classic that will make your taste buds dance with joy. Every bite of this nourishing and easy-to-make recipe will bring you one step closer to culinary heaven.

Firstly, this turkey casserole recipe is incredibly versatile, which makes it perfect for any occasion – from weeknight dinners to holiday feasts. You can mix and match various ingredients to suit your preferences, so don’t hesitate to get creative! Plus, let’s not forget that casserole dishes are easy to prepare and bake.

Secondly, the best thing about this recipe is that it allows you to use up leftover turkey in a delicious and inventive way. In today’s eco-conscious world, reducing food waste has become more important than ever before. By choosing our smoked turkey casserole recipe, you’re doing your part for the planet while enchanting your taste buds.

Thirdly, the combination of smoked turkey breast, mushrooms, pasta, onions, celery, garlic, and white wine creates a delectable and aromatic flavor profile that your whole family will adore. And if you’re looking for a low-carb option, you can substitute the pasta with rice or kale instead.

Lastly, who doesn’t love a one-pot meal? Whether you’re in a hurry or just want to minimize your cleaning time after dinner, this turkey casserole recipe is the solution. It takes only minutes to prep and 40-45 minutes to cook; then just add sides like sweet potato hash or bell pepper slices for a well-rounded meal.

As you can see, there are plenty of reasons why you’ll love this smoked turkey casserole recipe. From its versatility and eco-friendly aspects to its unbeatable taste profile and easy prep-work. Give it a try today and let us know how it turns out!

Ingredient List

 A delicious blend of smoky turkey, creamy cheese, and crispy breadcrumbs
A delicious blend of smoky turkey, creamy cheese, and crispy breadcrumbs

Here’s what you need to make this smoked turkey casserole recipe:

For the Casserole:

  • 2 cups of smoked turkey or leftover turkey
  • 8 ounces of rotini pasta
  • 4 cups of mushrooms, sliced
  • 1 bell pepper, chopped
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 yellow onion, diced
  • 2 stalks of celery, chopped into small pieces
  • 3 green onions, sliced thinly
  • 1 tablespoon of poultry seasoning
  • Salt to taste
  • Olive oil (for cooking)
  • Parsley (for garnish)

For the Sauce:

  • 1 cup of dry white wine
  • 2 cups of water
  • Salted butter (3 tablespoons)
  • Flour (3 tablespoons)

Note: You can also use smoked turkey breast instead of regular turkey. Also, check out the substitutions and variations section for other alternatives.

The Recipe How-To

Now that we have all the ingredients ready, let’s start making the Smoked Turkey Casserole. This recipe is a perfect way to make use of any leftover turkey or even smoked turkey. Don’t have any turkey leftovers? No worries, you can use smoked turkey breasts which are easily available in most grocery stores.

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

First things first, let’s preheat the oven to 350°F. While we wait for the oven to heat up, we can start with the casserole prep.

Step 2: Cook the Pasta

In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook rotini pasta until al dente, which should take about 8-10 minutes. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop it from cooking further.

Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables

In a large skillet over medium-high heat, melt 3 tablespoons butter and add diced onion, garlic cloves, celery, and green onions. Sauté for a few minutes until they become tender, then add sliced mushrooms and sauté until they are golden brown. Set aside.

Step 4: Prepare Smoked Turkey

Cut or shred the smoked leftover turkey breast into small pieces or chunks. You can even use leftover smoked turkey from Thanksgiving! Add it to the skillet with cooked vegetables.

Step 5: Combine Ingredients Together

In a separate large mixing bowl, whisk together 1 cup of water, 1 cup of dry white wine, and 2 cups of salted water with one package of mixed dry poultry seasoning. Add this mixture to your skillet with vegetables and smoked turkey. Mix well until everything is combined.

Step 6: Assemble Casserole

In a greased baking dish (9 x 13 inches), spread half of the cooked rotini pasta at the bottom. Layer half of the vegetable-turkey mixture on top of pasta followed by half cup chopped fresh parsley leaves. Repeat with another layer of the remaining rotini pasta and vegetable-turkey mixture on top again.

Step 7: Bake At Oven

Bake in pre-heated oven at 350°F for about 25-30 minutes until casserole is heated through and bubbly on top.

Now that our casserole is done, let’s allow it to cool down for about five minutes before serving. Once it has cooled down, serve them hot in large servings garnished with more fresh parsley leaves if desired.

Substitutions and Variations

There are plenty of options for substitutions and variations to make this smoked turkey casserole recipe uniquely yours. Here are some ideas to get you started:

– If you don’t have leftover turkey on hand, you can use cooked chicken instead. Or, for a vegetarian version, substitute mushrooms or tofu for the meat.

– For a different type of pasta, try using penne or fusili instead of rotini.

– Not a fan of kale? Spinach, collard greens or Swiss chard would be great alternatives.

– If you prefer a low-carb option, swap out the pasta for cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles.

РWant to make it spicier? Add diced jalape̱os or red pepper flakes to the mix.

– Instead of cream of mushroom soup, use cream of chicken or celery soup for a different taste.

As for variations, there are endless possibilities! You could add in diced potatoes, corn, or bell peppers to the casserole mixture. Or, bake it with a layer of shredded cheddar cheese on top. For a Mexican twist, add in black beans and use chili powder and cumin instead of poultry seasoning.

The beauty of this recipe is that you can easily tailor it to suit your tastes and preferences. Don’t be afraid to get creative and experiment with different ingredients and techniques. Who knows? You might just stumble upon your new go-to turkey casserole recipe!

Serving and Pairing

 A perfect crowd-pleaser for your next gathering
A perfect crowd-pleaser for your next gathering

Welcome to the serving and pairing section! Now that your smoked turkey casserole is ready, it’s time to serve it up and dig in. This dish pairs well with a variety of sides and drinks, so let’s explore some options.

First, let’s talk about sides. A simple green salad is always a good bet with a hearty casserole like this. You can also try roasted vegetables, such as brussels sprouts or carrots, for a colorful and nutritious addition to your plate. Rice or mashed potatoes make for great filling sides as well.

If you’re looking for a beverage to pair with your smoked turkey casserole, consider a dry white wine such as Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc to balance out the richness of the dish. If you prefer non-alcoholic drinks, a sparkling water with fresh lemon or lime can be refreshing too.

Now onto the next course – dessert! A sweet potato hash or sweet potato casserole would be an excellent pairing to continue the comforting feeling of the meal. For something lighter yet satisfying, opt for fresh fruit with whipped cream or a small slice of pie.

Lastly, don’t forget about presentation! You could transfer your casserole into a fancy baking dish if you want to impress your guests or keep it in a rectangular baking dish for easy serving.

That’s it! Your smoked turkey casserole is now complete with perfect pairings and ready to enjoy.

Make-Ahead, Storing and Reheating

One of the best things about this Smoked Turkey Casserole dish is that it can easily be made ahead of time, making it perfect for a stress-free dinner party or a busy weeknight meal. You can prepare the casserole up to a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator until ready to bake. Simply cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil or plastic wrap to keep it fresh.

When reheating the casserole, place it in a preheated oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for about 20-25 minutes or until heated all the way through. It’s important not to overheat it, as this will dry out the turkey and make the dish less enjoyable. If you find that your casserole is getting too dry during reheating, add a tablespoon or two of water or chicken broth.

If you have any leftover casserole after serving, simply store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. However, if you need to store any leftover smoked turkey casserole for longer than that, consider freezing it instead. Freezing will help preserve the quality of the dish for up to three months. Be sure to use an airtight container or freezer-safe bag and label the container with the date it was made.

Overall, this recipe is a great option if you’re looking for an easy make-ahead meal that will satisfy your family’s appetites even after cooking time has passed. Moreover, its versatility allows adjustments to suit your taste preferences and dietary restrictions such as low carb and keto options by substituting noodles for rice or kale.

Tips for Perfect Results

 Smoked turkey adds a unique flavor to this comforting casserole
Smoked turkey adds a unique flavor to this comforting casserole

To ensure your smoked turkey casserole turns out perfectly every time, follow these tips:

1. Don’t overcook the pasta: Cook the rotini pasta until al dente, or slightly firm to the bite. Overcooked pasta will result in a mushy casserole.

2. Use smoked turkey breast: The smoked turkey adds a delicious flavor to the casserole. If you don’t have leftover smoked turkey, you can smoke a turkey breast specifically for this recipe.

3. Use fresh herbs: Fresh parsley and green onions add brightness to the casserole. Don’t skimp on these ingredients!

4. Add vegetables: Mushrooms, celery, and onion contribute to both the flavor and texture of the casserole. Feel free to add more vegetables or substitute with your favorites.

5. Use dry white wine: Dry white wine adds a depth of flavor to the sauce that pairs well with smoked turkey.

6. Season well: Be sure to season the casserole with salt and poultry seasoning for a deliciously savory taste.

7. Let it rest: Letting the casserole rest for 10 minutes before serving allows it to set up and makes it easier to serve.

8. Garnish with fresh herbs: Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley or green onions on top of the casserole before serving for added color and flavor.

By following these tips, you’ll end up with a perfect smoked turkey casserole every time!

FAQ

As we get closer to the end of this recipe article, you may have some remaining questions about smoked turkey casserole. To ensure that you get the most out of this delicious meal, I’ve gathered some frequently asked questions and provided detailed answers that are sure to be helpful. From suggested substitutions and variations to tips on how to make the perfect leftovers, keep reading for more information.

What goes good with smoked turkey?

As an assistant for a BBQ chef, I have been instructed to provide detailed instructions, tips and recommendations for a variety of delicious dishes. These dishes include a tasty Grilled Parmesan Cheese Sandwich, crispy Tornado Baked Potatoes, spicy Chipotle and Toasted Walnut Wheat-Berry Salad, refreshing Green Apple Salad, zesty Cilantro Lime Rice, flavorful Lemon and Ginger Spinach, and classic Macaroni and Cheese. All of these dishes are sure to impress and satisfy any hungry crowd.

How do you keep smoked turkey moist?

To achieve a tender and juicy turkey with a crispy exterior, my go-to method is smoking it right on the grill grates. Simply place a roasting pan filled with an inch of water underneath the grates, ensuring it’s about three to four inches away from the meat. This setup helps to keep the turkey moist while allowing it to cook evenly and achieve that ideal crunch. This approach has been my trusted technique for years.

How long to cook a 10 lb smoked turkey?

Cook your meat in the oven at 325 degrees Fahrenheit for around 10 minutes per pound until it reaches an internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit according to your meat thermometer.

What vegetables go with smoked turkey?

A fantastic accompaniment to smoked turkey breast is a delicious blend of vegetables. A tasty combination of broccoli, cauliflower, carrots, and squash makes for a perfect side dish. For added deliciousness, sweet potatoes can also be included in the mix.

Bottom Line

with a Persuasive Text:

In conclusion, this smoked turkey casserole recipe is one of the best turkey recipes you’ll find out there. It’s easy-to-follow and produces mouth-watering results that will leave you asking for seconds. Whether you’re looking to use up leftover turkey or want to create a fresh and delicious meal from scratch, this recipe won’t disappoint.

What sets this casserole apart from other turkey casserole recipes is the addition of smoked turkey. The smoky flavor brings an added depth and complexity to the dish that will have your taste buds begging for more. The combination of rotini pasta, mushrooms, celery, onion, and garlic cloves creates a hearty and filling meal that is perfect for any occasion.

If you’re worried about substitutions or variations due to dietary restrictions, fear not! This recipe allows for flexibility in ingredient choices so you can customize it to fit your preferences. The pairing options are endless but I suggest serving with a side salad or roasted vegetables to balance out the richness of the casserole.

Not only is this recipe delicious but it also makes for great leftovers. You can store it in the fridge or freezer and reheat it later without losing any flavor or texture. This means that you can enjoy this dish multiple times throughout the week and save time on cooking!

In summary, if you want to impress your family or guests with a simple yet flavorful dish that will have them asking for seconds, give this smoked turkey casserole recipe a try. I guarantee it will become a staple in your Turkey Day leftovers menu!

Smoked Turkey Casserole

Smoked Turkey Casserole Recipe

I came up with this recipe to use some leftover smoked turkey without turning it into Tetrazini or using a cream sauce. I used whatever I had on hand at the time. All measurements of ingredients are approximations.
4.25 from 8 votes
Prep Time 30 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine American
Calories 223.1 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 1 cup dry rotini pasta
  • 2 quarts water
  • salt
  • 2 cups leftover turkey (preferably smoked)
  • 2 garlic cloves, smashed & finely chopped
  • 1 cup onion, sliced and cut in half
  • 4 green onions, coarsely chopped
  • 1/2 cup celery, sliced
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 8 ounces mushrooms, sliced
  • 1/4 cup dry white wine
  • 1/2-1 cup frozen peas
  • 1/2 teaspoon poultry seasoning or 1/2 teaspoon bell’s seasoning
  • 1/4 cup chopped parsley
  • 1 pinch hot red pepper
  • salt & pepper
  • more olive oil, use a high quality extra virgin

Instructions
 

  • Cook pasta in boiling salted water until al dente. Drain, do not rinse set aside.
  • Saute garlic, onions, green onions and celery in olive oil until limp but not browned about 5 minutes.
  • Add mushrooms, cook until liquid has evaporated.
  • Add wine to deglaze the pan.
  • Add frozen peas, seasoning, parsley, red pepper, salt & pepper. Cook an additional 2 minutes.
  • Add turkey and pasta, cook until heated through. Adjust seasoning.
  • Drizzle high quality olive oil over dish to taste before serving. (Or leave it out if you do not want the extra fat/calories).

YOUR OWN NOTE

Nutrition

Serving: 668gCalories: 223.1kcalCarbohydrates: 30.7gProtein: 7.1gFat: 7.5gSaturated Fat: 1.1gSodium: 50.8mgFiber: 3.5gSugar: 4.9g
Keyword < 30 Mins, Meat, One-Dish Meal, Oven, Poultry, Stove Top
Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!

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Shara

Shara @The Bird BBQ

Shara loves to experiment with different flavors and techniques when it comes to BBQ. She has been perfecting her craft for years and loves hosting backyard BBQs with friends & family. She often comes up with creative recipes that her guests rave about.