The classic casserole has long been a staple in comfort food cuisine. Its ability to combine ingredients into a single, easily prepared dish not only saves time but also brings families together around the dinner table. Today, we'll explore a delightful variation: Crescent Turkey Casserole, perfect for those chilly evenings or when you need a comforting meal after a long day.
Ingredients for Crescent Turkey Casserole
- 2 cups of cooked, shredded or diced turkey
- 1 can (8 oz) crescent roll dough
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
- 1/2 cup of mayonnaise
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup frozen peas and carrots mix
- 1/2 cup of milk
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/4 tsp onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
How to Make Crescent Turkey Casserole
Step-by-Step Guide
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Unroll the crescent dough and press it into the bottom of a 9x13 inch baking dish to form a crust.
- In a medium bowl, mix together the cream of chicken soup, mayonnaise, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
- Stir in the turkey, peas and carrots mix, and 3⁄4 cup of cheese. Spread this mixture evenly over the dough in the dish.
- Sprinkle the remaining cheese over the top.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the top is bubbly and golden brown.
🍽️ Note: If the edges of your crust start to brown too quickly, cover them with aluminum foil.
Serving Suggestions
Accompaniments
- A light salad with vinaigrette to balance the richness of the casserole.
- Steamed asparagus or green beans.
- For dessert, consider something light like fruit parfait or homemade cookies.
| Side Dish | Description | How it Complements the Casserole |
|---|---|---|
| Crisp Green Salad | A mix of greens, tomatoes, cucumbers, and a zesty dressing. | Provides a fresh, crunchy contrast to the rich casserole. |
| Roasted Root Vegetables | Potatoes, carrots, parsnips, and turnips roasted with herbs. | Adds depth with sweet and savory flavors. |
| Buttered Egg Noodles | Simple, comforting noodles tossed with butter and herbs. | Pairs well with the creamy casserole filling. |
Nutritional Information
Here's a look at what you can expect nutritionally from this comfort meal:
- Calories: Approximately 450 per serving (assuming 6 servings)
- Protein: 25g
- Fat: 30g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Dietary Fiber: 2g
Keep in mind, these values can vary based on specific ingredients used.
Why Make This Crescent Turkey Casserole?
The beauty of the Crescent Turkey Casserole lies in its simplicity and adaptability. Not only is it an excellent way to use up leftover turkey from holidays, but it also provides a comforting meal that’s easy to prepare:
- Ease of Preparation: The convenience of using premade crescent dough and canned soup makes this dish a snap to put together.
- Comforting Flavor: The combination of creamy filling, melted cheese, and a flaky crust encapsulates the essence of comfort food.
- Versatility: You can modify the recipe to include different vegetables, cheeses, or even use chicken instead of turkey.
To wrap up this culinary journey, Crescent Turkey Casserole isn't just a dish; it's a warm hug in a baking dish, perfect for any gathering or a quiet night at home. Its layers of flavors and textures create a symphony of comfort food that satisfies the palate and the soul. Whether you're looking to feed a crowd or simply need something quick yet delicious, this recipe stands as a testament to the joy of home-cooked meals. With its rich filling, crisp crust, and the option to serve it with a variety of sides, this casserole is sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection.
Can I use something other than turkey in this casserole?
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Absolutely! While turkey is the star of this recipe, you can easily substitute it with chicken or even a vegetarian alternative like tofu or beans.
Is there a way to make this casserole gluten-free?
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Yes, you can use gluten-free crescent roll dough or replace the crust with cooked gluten-free pasta to make it gluten-free.
How can I store leftovers?
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Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can reheat in the oven or microwave to serve.
