Turkey and Rice Casserole

Turkey and Rice Casserole Recipe - Creamy and Cheesy Dish

Region / culture: USA | Servings: 6

Introduction

Turkey and Rice Casserole is a comforting and delicious dish that is perfect for a family dinner or potluck. This hearty casserole is made with tender turkey, creamy mushroom sauce, and fluffy rice, all baked together until bubbly and golden brown. It is a satisfying meal that is sure to please everyone at the table.

History

The exact origins of Turkey and Rice Casserole are unclear, but casseroles have been a popular dish in American cuisine for decades. Casseroles became popular in the mid-20th century as a convenient and economical way to feed a family. This particular recipe likely originated as a way to use up leftover turkey from holiday meals, combining it with pantry staples like rice and canned soup to create a hearty and satisfying meal.

Ingredients

2 x 10.75 oz (305 g) cans of condensed cream of mushroom soup
1 cup of half-and-half
1 cup of grated sharp cheddar cheese
0.5 cup of grated parmesan cheese
1.5 tbsp of minced onion
1 tbsp of prepared mustard
0.25 tsp of rosemary leaves
0.13 tsp of ground black pepper
4 cups of cooked rice
4 cups of cubed cooked turkey or chicken
1 x 16 oz (454 g) can of carrots and peas
1 x 3 oz (85 g) can of French-fried onion rings

How to prepare

Blend the soup with half-and-half and cook it over low heat until it is hot, being careful not to let it boil.
Stir in the cheese, onion, mustard, rosemary, and pepper, then remove it from the heat.
Combine the sauce, rice, and turkey.
Alternate layers of the rice mixture with carrots and peas in a lightly buttered 3 qt (2.84 liter) casserole dish.
Sprinkle the top with onion rings.
Bake, uncovered, at 350°F (177°C) for 15 to 20 minutes, or until it is bubbly.

Variations

For a lighter version of this casserole, you can use low-fat cheese and cream in place of the full-fat versions.
You can add in different herbs and spices to customize the flavor of the casserole. Try adding in thyme, oregano, or paprika for a different twist.
Feel free to swap out the turkey for cooked ground beef, pork, or even tofu for a vegetarian option.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to cook the rice according to package instructions before adding it to the casserole. This will ensure that the rice is fully cooked and tender.

- You can use leftover cooked turkey or rotisserie chicken in this recipe for a quick and easy meal.

- Feel free to customize the vegetables in this casserole to suit your preferences. You can add in diced bell peppers, broccoli, or mushrooms for extra flavor and nutrition.

Serving Suggestions

Turkey and Rice Casserole can be served on its own as a complete meal, or paired with a side salad or steamed vegetables for added nutrition. It is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed for lunch or dinner.

Cooking Techniques

The key to making a delicious Turkey and Rice Casserole is to cook the ingredients until they are hot and bubbly. Be sure to follow the recipe instructions carefully to ensure that the casserole is cooked through and the flavors are well blended.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you don't have all of the ingredients on hand, you can make some substitutions in this recipe. You can use any type of cooked meat in place of the turkey, such as chicken, beef, or pork. You can also use different types of cheese or vegetables to customize the casserole to your liking.

Make Ahead Tips

Turkey and Rice Casserole can be assembled ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator until you are ready to bake it. Simply cover the casserole dish with plastic wrap or foil and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.

Presentation Ideas

To make this casserole look even more appetizing, you can sprinkle some fresh herbs or chopped parsley on top before serving. You can also serve it in individual ramekins for a more elegant presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Turkey and Rice Casserole pairs well with a side salad, steamed vegetables, or crusty bread. You can also serve it with a glass of white wine or sparkling water for a refreshing beverage.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Leftover Turkey and Rice Casserole can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place the casserole in the oven at 350°F (177°C) for 15-20 minutes, or until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Turkey and Rice Casserole contains approximately 400 calories. This makes it a satisfying and filling meal that can be enjoyed as part of a balanced diet.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Turkey and Rice Casserole contains approximately 35 grams of carbohydrates. Carbohydrates are an important source of energy for the body and can help fuel your daily activities.

Fats

Each serving of Turkey and Rice Casserole contains approximately 18 grams of fat. The fats in this dish come from the cheese, cream, and turkey, which provide flavor and richness to the casserole.

Proteins

Each serving of Turkey and Rice Casserole contains approximately 25 grams of protein. Protein is essential for building and repairing tissues in the body, making this casserole a satisfying and nutritious meal.

Vitamins and minerals

Turkey and Rice Casserole is a good source of vitamins and minerals, including vitamin A, vitamin C, calcium, and iron. These nutrients are important for overall health and well-being.

Alergens

This recipe contains dairy (cheese and half-and-half) and wheat (condensed cream of mushroom soup), which may be allergens for some individuals. Be sure to check for any food allergies or sensitivities before preparing this dish.

Summary

Turkey and Rice Casserole is a balanced meal that provides a good mix of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins, along with essential vitamins and minerals. It is a satisfying and nutritious dish that can be enjoyed by the whole family.

Summary

How did I get this recipe?

The memory of finding this recipe for the first time is a special one. It was a cool autumn evening, and I was flipping through an old cookbook that I had inherited from my own grandmother. As I turned the pages, a worn piece of paper fell out, fluttering to the floor. I picked it up and saw that it was a handwritten recipe for Turkey and Rice Casserole.

I recognized the handwriting immediately. It was my mother's. She had written down this recipe after learning it from a dear friend many years ago. I could almost hear her voice as I read through the ingredients and instructions. The nostalgia washed over me, and I knew I had to make this dish.

The next day, I gathered all the necessary ingredients and set to work in the kitchen. As I chopped onions and carrots, cooked the rice, and shredded the leftover turkey from Thanksgiving, I felt a sense of connection to the generations of women who had come before me. I could almost see my grandmother and mother standing beside me, guiding my hands and offering words of encouragement.

The house filled with the comforting aroma of garlic and herbs as the casserole baked in the oven. When it was finally done, I scooped out a generous portion onto a plate and sat down at the table to taste my creation. The flavors were rich and savory, the turkey tender and juicy, the rice perfectly cooked. It was a dish that spoke of love and tradition, a dish that brought back memories of family gatherings and shared meals.

I knew that this recipe would become a staple in my own kitchen, a dish that I would pass down to my children and grandchildren. It was more than just a meal; it was a connection to the past, a way to honor the women who had come before me and passed on their knowledge and love through food.

As I sat at the table, savoring each bite of Turkey and Rice Casserole, I felt grateful for the gift of cooking and the sense of belonging that it brought me. It was a reminder that food is not just sustenance; it is a way to nourish the body and soul, to create memories and traditions that will last a lifetime.

And so, as I finished my meal and cleared the table, I made a promise to myself to continue the legacy of cooking and sharing recipes with my loved ones. For in each dish that I prepare, I am preserving a piece of my family history and passing on a piece of myself to future generations. And that, to me, is the true magic of cooking.