This Creamy Turkey and Wild Rice Casserole is the ultimate comfort food for a chilly November evening. It’s a one-dish wonder that’s creamy, hearty, and perfect for using up any leftover turkey (or chicken). Packed with vegetables and nutty wild rice, it’s a warm and satisfying dinner to cozy up with.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Perfect for Leftovers: A great way to use leftover turkey from Thanksgiving.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: Prepares well in advance and reheats beautifully.
- One-Dish Meal: Balanced with protein, carbs, and veggies.
Ingredients (Serves 6)
For the Casserole:
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 2 medium carrots, diced
- 2 cups cooked turkey or chicken, shredded
- 1 cup uncooked wild rice blend
- 3 cups chicken or turkey stock
- 1 cup milk or cream
- 1 cup shredded cheddar or mozzarella cheese
- ½ teaspoon dried thyme
- ½ teaspoon dried parsley
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Optional Toppings:
- ½ cup panko breadcrumbs
- 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon melted butter
How to Make It
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Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
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Cook the Vegetables:
- Melt the butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the onion, garlic, celery, and carrots. Sauté for 5–7 minutes until softened.
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Assemble the Casserole:
- In the prepared baking dish, combine the sautéed vegetables, cooked turkey, uncooked wild rice, stock, milk, thyme, parsley, salt, and pepper. Stir until evenly mixed.
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Bake:
- Cover the dish tightly with foil and bake for 45 minutes. Remove the foil, stir, and sprinkle the shredded cheese on top. Bake uncovered for another 15 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the cheese is bubbly.
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Add Toppings (Optional):
- For a crispy topping, mix panko breadcrumbs with Parmesan cheese and melted butter. Sprinkle over the casserole during the last 10 minutes of baking.
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Serve:
- Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving. Pair with a side salad or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
Why This Recipe Works
- Creamy and Satisfying: The milk and cheese create a luscious texture.
- Nutty Wild Rice: Adds depth of flavor and a chewy bite.
- Versatile: Works with turkey, chicken, or even ham.
Quick Tips
- Save Time: Use pre-chopped veggies and pre-cooked rice to cut down on prep.
- Make it Lighter: Swap cream for a non-dairy alternative or use low-fat milk.
- Freeze It: This casserole freezes well—perfect for meal prep!
This Creamy Turkey and Wild Rice Casserole is an easy, hearty, and delicious way to enjoy the flavors of fall. Serve it on a cold November night, and it’ll quickly become a family favorite.
Enjoy your cozy dinner! 😊