This hearty Turkey and Leek Casserole is the ultimate comfort food for chilly evenings. It combines tender pieces of cooked turkey with sweet, sautéed leeks and fluffy noodles, all bound together by a rich, creamy sauce infused with nutmeg. The addition of smoked ham and sharp Swiss cheese adds depth and a savory kick to every bite. ItâÂÂs a simple, one-pan meal that comes together quickly using pantry staples, making it perfect for busy weeknights. Serve it hot, straight from the oven, for a satisfying family dinner that feels both homestyle and elegant.
Turkey And Leek Casserole
Description
This hearty Turkey and Leek Casserole is the ultimate comfort food for chilly evenings. It combines tender pieces of cooked turkey with sweet, saut&# 195;©ed leeks and fluffy noodles, all bound together by a rich, creamy sauce infused with nutmeg. The addition of smoked ham and sharp Swiss cheese adds depth and a savory kick to every bite. ItâÂÂs a simple, one-pan meal that comes together quickly using pantry staples, making it perfect for busy weeknights. Serve it hot, straight from the oven, for a satisfying family dinner that feels both homestyle and elegant.Ingredients
Directions
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Preheat oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C).
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Heat margarine in a 3-quart saucepan over medium heat.
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Add leeks (and onions if using) to the saucepan and cook for about 7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until softened.
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Stir in flour, salt, nutmeg, and pepper.
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Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture is bubbly.
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Remove from heat and stir in chicken broth and milk.
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Return to heat and bring to a boil, stirring constantly.
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Boil and stir for 1 minute to thicken the sauce.
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Stir in the cooked turkey, smoked ham, diced pimiento, and cooked noodles until well combined.
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Spread about half of the turkey mixture into an ungreased 9x9x2 inch baking dish or 2.5-quart casserole.
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Top with the remaining turkey mixture.
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Sprinkle shredded Swiss cheese evenly over the top.
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Bake uncovered for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the cheese is light brown and the casserole is heated through.
Nutrition Facts
Servings 8
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 681.2kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 16.4g26%
- Saturated Fat 5.0g25%
- Cholesterol 178.8mg60%
- Sodium 2744.2mg115%
- Total Carbohydrate 31.2g11%
- Dietary Fiber 3.4g14%
- Sugars 11.4g
- Protein 73.8g148%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
Note
Leeks can vary in size; if yours are smaller, you may need to use more than 5 to get enough sliced leeks for the recipe. Be sure to wash them thoroughly to remove any grit trapped between the layers.
You can substitute chicken broth with vegetable broth for a vegetarian version (omitting the turkey and ham) or use turkey broth for a deeper poultry flavor.
Any leftover cooked turkey works well here, including leftovers from holiday meals. If using raw turkey, boil or roast it first until fully cooked, then chop before adding to the sauce.
For a crispier topping, you can sprinkle some breadcrumbs or crushed crackers along with the cheese before baking.
Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes after removing it from the oven to allow the sauce to set slightly before serving.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven until hot.
