introduction
There’s something comforting about a warm casserole on a chilly evening. I remember the first time my grandmother made her famous turkey noodle casserole. It filled the house with a savory aroma, and I could hardly wait to dig in. This dish carries a lot of memories. It reminds me of cozy family dinners when my loved ones gathered around the table. The Old Fashioned Turkey Noodle Casserole with Panko Crust is not just a meal; it’s a piece of heartwarming tradition. The creamy filling, combined with a crunchy topping, makes every bite special. You’ll find that this recipe brings people together, just like it did for me.
why make this recipe
This Old Fashioned Turkey Noodle Casserole is a perfect choice for several reasons. First, it’s an easy way to use leftover turkey, making it both economical and resourceful. The combination of tender noodles, fresh veggies, and a creamy sauce creates a delicious meal that pleases everyone. Plus, the Panko crust adds an enjoyable crunch that elevates the dish. It’s great for a family dinner, a potluck, or even just a cozy night in. You’ll love how simple it is to make and how satisfying it is to eat.
how to make Old Fashioned Turkey Noodle Casserole with Panko Crust
Ingredients
- 3 cups (450g) cooked turkey breast, cubed
- 12 oz (340g) wide egg noodles
- 2 cups (150g) frozen peas and carrots, thawed
- 1 cup (150g) sliced celery, sautéed
- 1/2 cup (60g) diced yellow onion, sautéed
- 3 tbsp (42g) unsalted butter
- 3 tbsp (25g) all-purpose flour
- 2 cups (480ml) low-sodium turkey or chicken broth
- 1 cup (240ml) skim milk
- 1 tsp (5g) dried thyme
- 1/2 tsp (3g) garlic powder
- salt to taste
- black pepper to taste
- 1 cup (60g) Panko breadcrumbs
- 2 tbsp (30g) melted butter
- 1/4 cup (25g) grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 tsp (2g) paprika
Directions
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a rapid boil. Add the egg noodles and cook for 2–3 minutes less than the package instructions. Drain immediately and set aside.
- Melt 3 tablespoons of unsalted butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Whisk in the flour for 1 minute until it smells nutty.
- Slowly pour in the broth and milk, whisking constantly to eliminate lumps. Simmer for 5–7 minutes until the sauce thickens enough to coat the back of a spoon.
- Stir the thyme, garlic powder, salt, and pepper into the sauce.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cubed turkey, undercooked noodles, thawed peas, carrots, and sautéed celery and onion.
- Pour the creamy sauce over the mixture and fold until evenly coated.
- Transfer the mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish.
- In a small bowl, combine Panko breadcrumbs, melted butter, grated Parmesan, and paprika. Sprinkle evenly over the top of the casserole.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 30 minutes or until the topping is golden brown and shattering.
how to serve Old Fashioned Turkey Noodle Casserole
Serve this casserole hot right from the oven. It pairs well with a simple side salad or some crusty bread. You can also garnish with fresh herbs like parsley for a pop of color and flavor.
how to store Old Fashioned Turkey Noodle Casserole
To store leftovers, cool the casserole completely and then cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. It can be refrigerated for 3–4 days. For longer storage, freeze it in an airtight container for up to 2–3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
tips to make Old Fashioned Turkey Noodle Casserole
- Make sure to sauté the celery and onion until they are translucent for the best flavor.
- If you don’t have turkey, you can substitute it with chicken or even a mix of both.
- For a little extra flavor, add some cheese into the filling before baking.
- Customize the veggies based on what you have or enjoy.
variation
You can easily make this casserole vegetarian by replacing the turkey with mushrooms or a mix of your favorite vegetables. Use vegetable broth in place of chicken or turkey broth for a full veggie experience.
FAQs
Can I use leftover rotisserie chicken instead of turkey?
Yes, leftover rotisserie chicken works perfectly in this casserole.
Can I use other types of noodles?
Absolutely! You can use any pasta you prefer, but be sure to adjust the cooking time based on the noodle type.
Can I prepare this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the casserole a day ahead. Just cover it and store it in the fridge. When you’re ready to bake, you might need to add a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
