If you’re craving a comforting meal that’s packed with flavor and loaded with nutritious ingredients, you’ve got to try this Tasty Ground Turkey and Broccoli Casserole Recipe. It brings together tender pasta, lean ground turkey, and vibrant broccoli in a creamy, cheesy sauce that will have you reaching for seconds. Whether you’re looking for a wholesome weeknight dinner or a dish that pleases a crowd, this casserole combines simple ingredients into a show-stopping plate of pure comfort.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients is the first step in making this Tasty Ground Turkey and Broccoli Casserole Recipe shine. Each element plays a crucial role: from the texture of the egg pasta, to the savory depth of the turkey and the bright crunch of fresh broccoli. Together, they create a perfect harmony of flavors and colors.
- 2 cups egg pasta: Provides a tender, silky base that soaks up the sauce beautifully.
- 1 lb ground turkey: Lean and flavorful protein to keep the casserole hearty but light.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: I love using Bertolli Extra Virgin for roasting and adding richness.
- 1.5 tablespoons butter: Kerrygold unsalted gives a creamy, silky touch essential for the roux.
- 2 cups broccoli: Adds vibrant green color and a healthy crunch to contrast the creamy texture.
- 1 cup carrots: Sweetness and bright orange hues that balance savory flavors.
- 0.5 cup onion: Aromatic foundation that builds layers of flavor.
- 1.5 tablespoons garlic: Brings that irresistible savory warmth to every bite.
- 3 tablespoons flour: Thickens the sauce into that perfect creamy consistency.
- 2 cups chicken broth: Swanson broth is my go-to for consistent saltiness and depth of flavor.
- 1.25 cups milk: Adds creaminess without overwhelming the other ingredients.
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard: Gives a subtle tang that wakes up the dish.
- 2 teaspoons thyme: Earthy herb that complements the turkey beautifully.
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika: Adds a gentle smoky note for complexity.
- 1 cup cheddar cheese: Freshly shredded for the best melt and sharp, creamy taste.
- 0.5 cup sour cream: Creamy tang that enhances the sauce’s richness.
- Salt and pepper: Essential for seasoning to bring all flavors together.
- 0.33 cup panko: Provides a crunchy topping that contrasts the creamy casserole.
- 3 tablespoons Parmesan cheese: Adds a nutty, savory crust that’s simply irresistible.
How to Make Tasty Ground Turkey and Broccoli Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Pasta and Vegetables
Begin by cooking the egg pasta until al dente according to package instructions. Meanwhile, steam or blanch the broccoli and carrots just until vibrant and tender-crisp to keep their texture intact throughout baking. Drain the pasta well to avoid any sogginess in your casserole.
Step 2: Cook the Ground Turkey
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground turkey, breaking it apart with your spoon, and cook it until browned and cooked through. Season generously with salt, pepper, thyme, and smoked paprika. This step builds the foundational savory flavors of your casserole.
Step 3: Prepare the Cream Sauce
In the same skillet, add butter and let it melt gently. Stir in the chopped onion and garlic, cooking until fragrant and translucent. Sprinkle the flour over the mixture and whisk continuously to form a roux, cooking it for about 2 minutes. Gradually pour in the chicken broth and milk, whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Add the Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper to taste. Let this sauce simmer and thicken while stirring frequently.
Step 4: Combine Ingredients and Cheese
Once your sauce is thick and creamy, remove it from heat. Stir in the cooked ground turkey, steamed broccoli, carrots, sour cream, and shredded cheddar cheese. This combination makes the sauce rich, tangy, and packed with melty cheesiness that ties everything together.
Step 5: Assemble and Bake
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a greased casserole dish, combine the cooked pasta with the turkey and sauce mixture, folding everything gently but thoroughly. Top evenly with panko and sprinkle Parmesan cheese over the top for a golden, crunchy crust. Bake uncovered for about 20 minutes, or until the topping is bubbly and golden brown.
How to Serve Tasty Ground Turkey and Broccoli Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh herbs like parsley or chives make a perfect bright, fresh contrast to the rich casserole. A light sprinkle of extra Parmesan cheese just before serving adds even more savory goodness. For a touch of heat, a few red pepper flakes can elevate each bite.
Side Dishes
This casserole is wonderfully satisfying on its own, but pairing it with a crisp green salad or some crusty garlic bread can round out the meal. Roasted vegetables and a simple cucumber salad with lemon vinaigrette make for refreshing side options too.
Creative Ways to Present
For family gatherings or potlucks, bake individual portions in ramekins for a pretty presentation. You could also serve it layered in a trifle dish to showcase all the colorful ingredients. Leftovers can be transformed into hearty wraps or even stuffed peppers for a fresh twist the next day.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, transfer leftover casserole into an airtight container and refrigerate. It will keep well for up to 3-4 days, preserving all those lovely flavors and textures as they meld even further.
Freezing
This Tasty Ground Turkey and Broccoli Casserole Recipe freezes beautifully. Portion it out into freezer-safe containers before baking, or freeze fully baked casserole with tightly wrapped foil over the top. It will maintain quality for up to 2 months.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, around 15-20 minutes, to keep the topping crisp. Alternatively, microwave individual servings on medium power in short intervals, stirring halfway for even heating.
FAQs
Can I substitute ground turkey with another protein?
Absolutely! Ground chicken or lean ground beef can work well, though lean turkey keeps it lighter. Just adjust cooking times accordingly, especially if using beef which may have a different fat content.
Is it necessary to use fresh cheese, or can I use pre-shredded?
Freshly shredded cheddar melts more smoothly and tastes fresher, but pre-shredded cheese can be used in a pinch. Just know that some pre-shredded cheeses contain additives that might affect texture.
Can I make this casserole gluten-free?
Yes! Substitute the regular pasta with gluten-free pasta and use a gluten-free flour or cornstarch for the sauce. Ensure your panko or topping is also gluten-free to keep the crunchy finish.
What is the best way to get a crispy topping?
Mixing panko with Parmesan cheese and baking uncovered does the trick. You can also broil for the last 1-2 minutes to get a golden, bubbly crust but watch carefully to avoid burning.
Can I add other vegetables to this recipe?
Definitely! Mushrooms, bell peppers, or zucchini would integrate nicely. Just be mindful of cooking times so all veggies remain pleasantly tender without losing their shape.
Final Thoughts
This Tasty Ground Turkey and Broccoli Casserole Recipe is an absolute winner when you want a meal that feels like a warm hug. It’s so satisfying, simple to prep, and packed with flavors you’ll love sharing around the table. Give it a try – I promise it will become one of your beloved go-to casseroles in no time!
Print
Tasty Ground Turkey and Broccoli Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Tasty Ground Turkey and Broccoli Casserole is a hearty, comforting dish that combines lean ground turkey, fresh broccoli, and egg pasta in a creamy, cheesy sauce. Enhanced with aromatic thyme and a hint of smoked paprika, and topped with a crispy panko and parmesan crust, this casserole is perfect for a wholesome family dinner. With simple ingredients and easy preparation, it delivers flavorful nutrition in about 50 minutes total.
Ingredients
Pasta and Vegetables
- 2 cups egg pasta
- 2 cups broccoli, chopped
- 1 cup carrots, sliced
- 0.5 cup onion, diced
- 1.5 tablespoons garlic, minced
Meat and Fats
- 1 lb ground turkey
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (preferably Bertolli Extra Virgin)
- 1.5 tablespoons unsalted butter (such as Kerrygold)
Sauce Ingredients
- 3 tablespoons flour
- 2 cups chicken broth (Swanson brand recommended)
- 1.25 cups milk
- 1 tablespoon dijon mustard
- 2 teaspoons thyme
- 0.5 teaspoon smoked paprika
- salt, to taste
- pepper, to taste
Cheese and Toppings
- 1 cup cheddar cheese, freshly shredded
- 0.5 cup sour cream
- 0.33 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 3 tablespoons parmesan cheese, grated
Instructions
- Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add 2 cups of egg pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Drain and set aside.
- Sauté the vegetables: Heat 2 tablespoons olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add diced onion, minced garlic, chopped broccoli, and sliced carrots. Cook, stirring occasionally, for about 5 minutes until vegetables are slightly tender but still crisp. Remove vegetables from skillet and set aside.
- Cook the ground turkey: In the same skillet, add the ground turkey and cook over medium-high heat until browned and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes. Break up the meat as it cooks. Season with salt, pepper, 2 teaspoons thyme, and 0.5 teaspoon smoked paprika. Drain any excess fat if needed.
- Make the roux and sauce: Reduce heat to medium and add 1.5 tablespoons unsalted butter to the skillet with the turkey. Once melted, sprinkle 3 tablespoons flour evenly over the mixture and whisk continuously for about 2 minutes to form a roux. Gradually pour in 2 cups chicken broth and 1.25 cups milk while whisking to ensure a smooth sauce. Stir in 1 tablespoon dijon mustard and continue cooking until the sauce thickens, about 4-5 minutes. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.
- Combine casserole ingredients: Lower heat and stir in cooked vegetables, cooked pasta, 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese, and 0.5 cup sour cream into the sauce mixture. Mix well to combine everything evenly.
- Prepare baking dish and topping: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Transfer the casserole mixture into a greased baking dish. In a small bowl, mix 0.33 cup panko breadcrumbs with 3 tablespoons grated parmesan cheese. Sprinkle this evenly over the casserole to create a crunchy topping.
- Bake the casserole: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake uncovered for 20 minutes or until the top is golden brown and the casserole is bubbly.
- Rest and serve: Remove from the oven and let the casserole rest for 5 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to settle and makes it easier to portion.
Notes
- Freshly shredded cheddar cheese melts better and provides a richer flavor than pre-shredded.
- Use low-sodium chicken broth if you want to control salt content more precisely.
- For a creamier texture, substitute half-and-half for milk.
- Panko breadcrumbs can be toasted lightly beforehand for extra crunch.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven or microwave.
- Adding a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes can add a subtle heat to the dish.
