Hello, welcome to my beautiful world! My name is Prisca Bush. I am a food lover; I enjoy writing about my favorite recipes.
Introduction
The first time I made Turkey and Broccoli Cheese Casserole Recipe was a few years ago, after a long holiday weekend. I found myself staring into the fridge at a container of leftover roast turkey and a bag of fresh broccoli that was on the brink of going limp. The idea of another dry turkey sandwich didn’t exactly spark joy. And with the cold weather setting in, I was craving something hearty—something baked, warm, and unapologetically cheesy. So I did what I’ve come to love most about cooking—I improvised.
I chopped up the turkey, lightly steamed the broccoli, and layered it all into a baking dish with a homemade cheddar cheese sauce and a sprinkle of breadcrumbs. What came out of the oven was bubbling, golden, and comforting in the way only a casserole can be. My family went back for seconds, and by the next day, there wasn’t a single bite left.
Since then, this Turkey and Broccoli Cheese Casserole Recipe has become a go-to recipe in our home. It’s a delicious way to use up leftover turkey, but honestly, we’ve made it with fresh turkey breast or rotisserie chicken too—because the end result is just that good.
Whether you’re feeding a crowd, prepping meals for the week, or just trying to revive leftovers in a fresh way, this Turkey and Broccoli Cheese Casserole Recipe checks all the boxes: easy, cheesy, and irresistibly satisfying.
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Turkey and Broccoli Cheese Casserole Recipe (2025)
Ingredients
Below is all you need to prepare this Turkey and Broccoli Cheese Casserole Recipe:
For the Casserole Base:
- 3 cups cooked turkey, shredded or diced
- 4 cups broccoli florets (fresh or frozen)
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter
- 3 cups cooked rice or pasta (optional but filling)
For the Cheese Sauce:
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups whole milk (or 1 cup milk + 1 cup cream for richness)
- 1 1/2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella or Monterey Jack
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1/4 teaspoon ground mustard (optional, for depth)
- Pinch of paprika or cayenne (optional, for warmth)
For the Topping:
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (panko or regular)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil or melted butter
- 2 tablespoons grated parmesan (optional)
How to Prepare Turkey and Broccoli Cheese Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prep
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish or casserole pan with non-stick spray or a little butter.
If you’re using fresh broccoli, steam it for about 3–4 minutes until just tender but still bright green. If using frozen broccoli, thaw and drain well.
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics
In a large skillet over medium heat, warm the olive oil or butter. Add the chopped onion and cook for 3–4 minutes until soft and translucent. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
Remove from heat and set aside.
Step 3: Make the Cheese Sauce
In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1–2 minutes to form a roux (this removes the raw flour taste).
Slowly pour in the milk, whisking constantly to prevent lumps. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, whisking until it thickens—about 3–5 minutes.
Turn off the heat and stir in the shredded cheddar and mozzarella until melted and smooth. Add salt, pepper, ground mustard, and paprika or cayenne to taste.
Step 4: Assemble the Casserole
In a large bowl (or directly in the baking dish), combine the cooked turkey, steamed broccoli, sautéed onions and garlic, and cooked rice or pasta if using.
Pour the cheese sauce over the mixture and gently toss to coat everything evenly.
Transfer the mixture into your prepared baking dish and spread it into an even layer.
Step 5: Add the Topping
In a small bowl, mix the breadcrumbs with olive oil or melted butter. Stir in grated parmesan if using. Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture evenly over the casserole.
Step 6: Bake Until Bubbly
Bake uncovered in the preheated oven for 25–30 minutes, or until the casserole is hot and bubbling, and the top is golden and crisp.
Let it cool for 5–10 minutes before serving.
How to Serve Turkey and Broccoli Cheese Casserole Recipe
This Turkey and Broccoli Cheese Casserole Recipe is hearty enough to stand on its own, but it also pairs beautifully with:
- A crisp green salad with vinaigrette
- Roasted carrots, Brussels sprouts, or green beans
- Warm dinner rolls or garlic bread
- Cranberry sauce for a sweet-savory balance (especially after holidays)
It’s the kind of dish that invites seconds—and maybe even thirds. Serve it directly from the baking dish for a casual meal, or plate it with garnishes like fresh parsley or a sprinkle of extra cheese.
Tips
1. Use freshly shredded cheese
Pre-shredded cheese often contains anti-caking agents that prevent smooth melting. For best results, grate your cheese from a block.
2. Don’t overcook the broccoli
You want it tender but not mushy. Slightly undercooking before baking ensures it holds texture in the casserole.
3. Adjust sauce thickness if needed
If your sauce seems too thick, whisk in a splash more milk. If too thin, simmer a little longer before adding the cheese.
4. Add seasoning gradually
Taste as you go—especially with the cheese sauce. Every batch of cheddar can vary in saltiness.
5. Rest before slicing
Letting the casserole sit for a few minutes after baking helps it set and makes serving easier.
Variations
1. Low-carb version
Skip the rice or pasta and load up on turkey and broccoli. You can also use cauliflower rice for a keto-friendly twist.
2. Swap the protein
This casserole works just as well with cooked chicken or even ham for a fun post-holiday change.
3. Add more veggies
Toss in sautéed mushrooms, chopped spinach, or bell peppers for extra nutrition and flavor.
4. Spice it up
Add a dash of hot sauce or crushed red pepper flakes to the cheese sauce for a kick.
5. Try a different cheese blend
Gruyère, Swiss, or fontina can add new depth to the cheese flavor. Mix and match for your favorite combo.
FAQs
1. Can I make this Turkey and Broccoli Cheese Casserole Recipe ahead of time?
Yes! Assemble the casserole up to a day in advance, cover, and refrigerate. When ready to bake, let it sit at room temperature for 20–30 minutes before putting it in the oven.
2. How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven until hot throughout.
3. Can I freeze this Turkey and Broccoli Cheese Casserole Recipe?
Absolutely. Prepare the casserole, skip the breadcrumb topping, and freeze it before baking. When ready to eat, thaw in the fridge overnight, add the topping, and bake as directed.
4. Can I use canned soup instead of cheese sauce?
While the homemade cheese sauce is more flavorful, you can substitute with a can of cream of chicken or cheddar soup mixed with 1/2 cup milk for convenience.
5. What’s the best way to reheat this dish?
Cover with foil and bake at 350°F for 20–25 minutes until hot. You can also microwave individual portions with a splash of milk to keep it creamy.
Final Thoughts
This Turkey and Broccoli Cheese Casserole Recipe is the perfect recipe for when comfort food calls and time is short. It’s flexible enough to adapt to what you have on hand, and satisfying enough to become a new household favorite.
Whether you’re repurposing leftovers after the holidays or simply craving a cozy baked dinner, this Turkey and Broccoli Cheese Casserole Recipe delivers on flavor, warmth, and ease. With its golden breadcrumb topping, creamy cheese, and wholesome ingredients, Turkey and Broccoli Cheese Casserole Recipe is everything you want in a family-friendly meal—and then some.
From my kitchen to yours, I hope this Turkey and Broccoli Cheese Casserole Recipe brings the same comfort and smiles to your table as it has to mine.