| |

Creamy Turkey Broccoli Casserole Recipe

If you’re craving something cozy, satisfying, and downright comforting, you’ve got to try this Creamy Turkey Broccoli Casserole Recipe. I absolutely love how creamy and rich it turns out, yet it’s surprisingly simple to whip up on any weeknight. Whether you’re looking to use up leftover turkey or just want a hearty meal that won’t disappoint, this casserole fits the bill perfectly. Let me walk you through all the tips and tricks to make sure yours comes out delicious every single time!

🧡

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Simple Ingredients: You probably already have most of these staples in your pantry, making it a quick go-to meal.
  • Comforting Creaminess: The sour cream and cream of chicken soup blend together for a luscious, cozy texture.
  • A Great Way to Use Leftovers: It’s perfect for turning leftover turkey into something new and exciting.
  • Family Favorite: My family goes crazy for this, especially on chilly nights when comfort food is a must.

Ingredients You’ll Need

With just a handful of ingredients that play so well together, this Creamy Turkey Broccoli Casserole Recipe is both hearty and wholesome. I recommend choosing fresh broccoli for that nice little crunch and quality cheddar cheese for the best melt and flavor.

Creamy Turkey Broccoli Casserole Recipe - Ingredients
  • Turkey stuffing mix: Using a boxed stuffing mix keeps things easy and adds a nice crispy topping when baked.
  • Broccoli florets: Fresh is best here, but if you’re in a pinch, frozen broccoli works too—just thaw and drain well.
  • Cooked turkey: Leftover roasted turkey or rotisserie works beautifully—the key is that it’s chopped into bite-sized pieces.
  • Cream of chicken soup: This adds that classic creamy base; I’ve found the condensed canned version works best.
  • Sour cream: Adds tang and richness, making the casserole thick and luscious.
  • Cheddar cheese: Go for sharp cheddar if you like a punch of flavor, or mild if you prefer it mellow.
  • Salt and pepper: Simple seasoning to enhance the flavors—don’t skip!
📝
Note: You’ll find the complete list of ingredients, along with their exact measurements, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post.

Variations

I love that this Creamy Turkey Broccoli Casserole Recipe is so easy to tweak. Over time, I’ve played around with add-ins and even dietary swaps to keep it fresh and adaptable, and you should too! Don’t hesitate to make it your own.

  • Vegetarian Version: I once swapped the turkey for sautéed mushrooms and added some extra cheese; it turned out so comforting and hearty even without the meat.
  • Extra Veggies: Sometimes I toss in diced carrots or cauliflower for a little veggie boost—just steam them along with the broccoli.
  • Spicy Kick: Adding a pinch of cayenne or some chopped green chilies gave my family a fun twist that made it stand out.
  • Gluten-Free: I’ve had success using gluten-free stuffing mix and GF cream soup to make this safe for everyone at the table.

How to Make Creamy Turkey Broccoli Casserole Recipe

Step 1: Get the oven ready and prep your dish

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C)—this is key so the casserole cooks evenly. Lightly grease a 9-inch baking dish with some nonstick spray or butter; this helps the casserole come out cleanly and creates a nice crust on the edges.

Step 2: Make the stuffing mix

Prepare your turkey stuffing according to the package instructions. I always fluff mine with a fork when done because it helps create that light, crispy topping everyone loves. Set it aside while you mix the filling.

Step 3: Parboil the broccoli

This trick I discovered makes such a difference! Bring a saucepan of water to a boil and add your broccoli florets for just about 3 minutes—enough to soften them without turning mushy. Drain immediately and toss into a large bowl to wait for the other ingredients. This keeps broccoli tender but still vibrant and bright green.

Step 4: Combine the creamy filling

Now, add your chopped cooked turkey, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, cheddar cheese, plus salt and pepper to the broccoli. Stir everything together gently—you want to evenly coat each piece but keep it chunky enough for great texture. This mixture is what makes this casserole shine with creamy comfort!

Step 5: Assemble and bake

Spoon the turkey broccoli mixture into your prepared baking dish, smoothing it out evenly. Then, spread the fluffy stuffing mix right on top in one even layer. This way, you get that amazing contrast of creamy filling underneath and crunchy, golden topping after baking.

Bake uncovered for about 30 minutes or until the top turns lightly golden and the casserole is heated through and bubbly. You’ll know it’s done when you see a few crispy bits around the edges and the center’s steaming hot. Let it rest for a few minutes before serving because it really thickens up as it cools slightly.

👨‍🍳

Pro Tips for Making Creamy Turkey Broccoli Casserole Recipe

  • Parboil, Don’t Overcook: Slightly undercook the broccoli so it remains firm after baking—overcooked broccoli turns mushy in the casserole.
  • Fluff Your Stuffing Topping: Fluffing the stuffing before topping helps keep it from getting soggy and gives a delicate crispness.
  • Use Sharp Cheddar: Sharp cheddar cheese packs more flavor and melts beautifully, adding a rich tang to the creamy sauce.
  • Let It Rest: Allow the casserole to sit a bit after baking so it firms up and slices neatly without falling apart.

How to Serve Creamy Turkey Broccoli Casserole Recipe

Creamy Turkey Broccoli Casserole Recipe - Serving

Garnishes

I like to sprinkle a few fresh parsley leaves or some chopped chives right before serving—it adds a pop of color and a fresh bite that balances the richness. Sometimes, a little extra shredded cheddar melted on top is a hit for cheese lovers!

Side Dishes

This casserole is pretty hearty, so I usually keep sides simple. A crisp green salad or roasted root vegetables rounds out the meal nicely. Occasionally, I’ll pair it with some crusty bread for soaking up all the creamy goodness leftover on the plate.

Creative Ways to Present

For special occasions, I’ve served this in individual ramekins—everyone loves having their own personal bubbly casserole. You can also create a buffet-style spread with assorted toppings like extra cheese, bacon bits, or fried onions so guests can customize their portions.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

My experience is that leftovers keep beautifully in an airtight container in the fridge for about 3-4 days. When stored properly, the casserole maintains its creamy texture without drying out. Just be sure to let it cool to room temperature before refrigerating to avoid condensation.

Freezing

I’ve frozen portions of this casserole before with great success. If you want to freeze it, assemble everything except the stuffing topping, freeze that part separately, and add the topping before baking once thawed. This helps preserve texture and avoids sogginess.

Reheating

Reheat your leftovers in the oven at 350°F for about 20 minutes covered with foil, or until warmed through. Microwaving works too but I recommend adding a splash of water or broth to keep it moist and avoid drying out the creamy filling.

FAQs

  1. Can I use different vegetables in this Creamy Turkey Broccoli Casserole Recipe?

    Absolutely! While broccoli is classic here, cauliflower, green beans, or even mixed veggies can be great swaps. Just adjust cooking times so the veggies stay tender but firm.

  2. Is there a way to make this casserole dairy-free?

    Yes, you can substitute the sour cream with a dairy-free alternative like coconut or cashew-based sour cream, and use dairy-free cheese. Also, look for a dairy-free creamy soup or make a homemade white sauce with plant-based milk.

  3. Can I prepare this casserole ahead of time?

    Definitely! You can assemble the entire casserole up to the point of adding the stuffing and refrigerate it for a day. Add the stuffing right before baking to keep that crunchy topping intact.

  4. What’s the best way to reheat without drying it out?

    Reheating in the oven covered with foil helps retain moisture. You can also add a little splash of broth or water before reheating to keep the filling creamy and soft.

Final Thoughts

This Creamy Turkey Broccoli Casserole Recipe holds a special place in my kitchen rotation—it’s straightforward enough for a weeknight yet comforting enough to feel like a celebration. Every time I make it, I’m reminded how a few simple ingredients combined with a little love can make magic on a plate. I’m sure once you give it a try, it’ll become a family favorite in your home too. So go ahead, gather your ingredients, and enjoy the warm, cheesy goodness that this dish delivers.

Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon

Creamy Turkey Broccoli Casserole Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star 4.8 from 742 reviews
  • Author: Paula
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Total Time: 50 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings
  • Category: Casserole
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Description

This Easy Turkey Casserole is a comforting and hearty dish perfect for using up leftover turkey. With a creamy filling of turkey, broccoli, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, and cheddar cheese, topped with savory turkey stuffing, it’s baked to golden perfection. A simple and satisfying meal for family dinners or potlucks.


Ingredients

Stuffing

  • 1 (6oz) box turkey stuffing

Main Casserole

  • 3 cups broccoli florets
  • 3 cups cooked turkey, chopped
  • 1 (10.5oz) can cream of chicken soup
  • 1 cup sour cream
  • 1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded
  • Salt and pepper, to taste


Instructions

  1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9-inch baking dish with nonstick cooking spray and set aside to prepare for assembling the casserole.
  2. Prepare Stuffing: Follow the package instructions to prepare the turkey stuffing. Once cooked, fluff it with a fork to separate the grains. Set aside for topping the casserole later.
  3. Parboil Broccoli: Bring a saucepan of water to a boil. Add the broccoli florets and boil for about 3 minutes, until they are slightly tender but still crisp. Drain immediately and transfer the broccoli to a large mixing bowl.
  4. Make the Filling: To the bowl with broccoli, add the cooked chopped turkey, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, shredded cheddar cheese, salt, and pepper. Gently stir the mixture until all ingredients are evenly combined.
  5. Assemble the Casserole: Spoon the turkey and broccoli mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread it out evenly to create the base layer of the casserole.
  6. Add Stuffing Topping: Spoon the fluffed stuffing mixture evenly over the turkey filling in the baking dish to form the casserole’s crunchy topping.
  7. Bake: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 30 minutes or until the stuffing topping is lightly golden and the casserole is thoroughly heated through.
  8. Serve: Remove from the oven and serve the casserole warm. Enjoy this comforting and easy meal!

Notes

  • You can substitute cream of chicken soup with cream of mushroom or celery soup for a different flavor.
  • Use any leftover cooked turkey or chicken for convenience and less cooking time.
  • For a healthier variation, use reduced-fat sour cream and low-fat cheese.
  • If you prefer a crunchier topping, broil the casserole for the last 2-3 minutes, watching carefully to avoid burning.
  • Fresh or frozen broccoli can be used; if frozen, thaw before parboiling.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 serving (approx. 1/6 of casserole)
  • Calories: 350 kcal
  • Sugar: 3 g
  • Sodium: 700 mg
  • Fat: 18 g
  • Saturated Fat: 8 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 25 g
  • Fiber: 3 g
  • Protein: 25 g
  • Cholesterol: 75 mg

Similar Posts

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Recipe rating 5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star