Turkey Mac and Cheese Casserole Recipe

If you’re looking for a cozy, comforting dinner that’s as satisfying as it is simple, you’re going to absolutely love this Turkey Mac and Cheese Casserole Recipe. It’s the perfect way to transform leftover turkey into a creamy, cheesy, crowd-pleaser that warms you up from the inside out. Trust me, once you try this, it’ll become a staple in your rotation for cozy nights and family dinners alike.

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Ingredients You’ll Need

The ingredients for this Turkey Mac and Cheese Casserole Recipe blend comfort classics with a touch of crunch for texture. Using cooked turkey and elbow macaroni keeps it simple, and the cream of chicken soup adds richness without extra fuss. Here’s a quick rundown of what you’ll want to grab:

• Turkey: Cooked and cubed, this is the star protein making your casserole hearty.
• Sweet onion: Adds a gentle sweetness and depth—sauté it until translucent for the best flavor.
• Elbow macaroni: Classic choice for mac and cheese; it holds up well in the casserole.
• Cream of chicken soup: A creamy base that ties everything together, so no complicated sauce here.
• Cheddar cheese: Sharp and melty, it brings that gooey goodness we all crave.
• Milk: For a smooth, velvety sauce consistency when mixed with soup.
• Butter: For sautéing onions and toasting the breadcrumb topping—adds richness and flavor.
• Panko breadcrumbs: For a crispy, golden topping seasoned with garlic powder, salt, and parsley.

Variations

I love how flexible this Turkey Mac and Cheese Casserole Recipe is. You can swap, add, or tweak ingredients to suit what you have on hand or your family’s tastes. Don’t hesitate to personalize it—it’s all about making the dish your own.

• Add Veggies: When I want to sneak in some greens, I toss in steamed broccoli or sautéed mushrooms. It adds color and nutrition without overpowering the cheesy goodness.
• Spicy Kick: For a little heat, I sometimes mix in a pinch of cayenne or chopped jalapeños into the cheese topping—great if you like your comfort food with a bit of a punch.
• Different Cheese: Using a blend of sharp cheddar with pepper jack or smoked gouda can deepen the flavor, making it feel extra special.
• Gluten-Free: Swap the elbow macaroni for your favorite gluten-free pasta and use gluten-free panko to keep the crunch.

How to Make Turkey Mac and Cheese Casserole Recipe

Step 1: Prep Your Turkey and Onion

Start by cutting your cooked turkey into bite-sized pieces—this makes each bite perfectly balanced between creamy cheese, pasta, and turkey. Heat your butter in a medium pan over medium-high heat, then add the diced sweet onion. Cook it slowly, stirring often, until it’s soft and just turning translucent—this usually takes about 5 minutes. That gentle caramelization adds a nice sweetness that really complements the cheesy sauce.

Step 2: Assemble the Casserole Base

Spray a 9 x 13-inch baking dish with nonstick spray—this helps with cleanup later! Spread your uncooked elbow macaroni evenly across the bottom, then layer the cubed turkey on top. In a bowl, whisk together the milk and cream of chicken soup until smooth. Add the sautéed onions and stir to combine. Pour this mixture evenly over the turkey and noodles. Cover the dish and pop it in the fridge overnight. This step is a game-changer—the pasta soaks up all those creamy flavors and gives you a rich, tender bite the next day.

Step 3: Bake and Add Cheese

The next day (or when you’re ready to eat), preheat your oven to 350°F. Sprinkle the grated cheddar cheese evenly over the top of the casserole. Bake it uncovered for up to an hour, or until bubbling and hot all the way through. The cheese will melt into a golden blanket that’s irresistible.

Step 4: Prepare the Crunchy Panko Topping

While that’s baking, heat a medium pan over medium-high heat with your butter. Once it starts to sizzle and melt, add the panko breadcrumbs along with the salt, garlic powder, and dried parsley. Turn the heat down to medium and stir constantly—this step demands your attention! It only takes a few minutes for the panko to toast to a beautiful golden brown, and that color means maximum crunch and flavor. When the casserole finishes baking, sprinkle the crispy panko topping over it right before serving for that perfect texture contrast.

How to Serve Turkey Mac and Cheese Casserole Recipe

Garnishes

I like to sprinkle a little fresh parsley on top after baking because it adds a pop of color and freshness that brightens the dish visually and flavor-wise. Sometimes, I’ll also add a few dashes of hot sauce or a pinch of smoked paprika if I want an extra layer of flavor. It’s those little touches that make it feel homemade and special.

Side Dishes

A simple tossed green salad dressed with a light vinaigrette is my go-to side because it cuts through the rich, cheesy casserole perfectly. Roasted vegetables like broccoli or Brussels sprouts also pair beautifully if you want something warm and hearty. And honestly, garlic bread doesn’t hurt if you’re in the mood for full-on comfort food indulgence.

Creative Ways to Present

For special occasions, I’ve served this casserole in individual ramekins topped with personalized breadcrumbs and mini herb sprigs—it’s a fun way to dress it up and make each portion feel like a treat. Using a cast iron skillet instead of a baking dish also gives it a rustic feel and keeps the edges extra crispy, which always impresses guests.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

I store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When I do, the flavors continue to meld, and it reheats beautifully for quick lunches or dinners. Just be sure to keep the crunchy topping separate if you want it to stay crispy until serving.

Freezing

This casserole freezes really well—you can freeze it before baking or after it’s fully cooked. I recommend freezing in portions, so you can reheat just what you need. If you freeze it unbaked, thaw it overnight in the fridge, then add your cheese and panko topping before baking.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers in the oven at 350°F for about 20 minutes until hot and bubbly again. If you want to revive the topping’s crunch, sprinkle a little extra panko on top and broil for a couple of minutes at the end. I avoid microwaving when possible because the texture isn’t quite as nice, but it works well in a pinch.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

This Turkey Mac and Cheese Casserole Recipe is one of those dishes I circle back to time and again because it’s comforting, easy, and hits that nostalgic spot in my heart—and I bet it will for you too. Whether you’re using up leftovers or just craving a creamy, cheesy dish that’s perfect for family dinners, it’s a recipe that rarely disappoints. I hope you give it a try soon and that it becomes as much of a favorite for you as it is for my family!

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