Turkey Cheese Bake

Turkey Cheese Bake Recipe - Delicious and Hearty Meal

| Servings: 6

Introduction

Turkey Cheese Bake is a delicious and hearty casserole dish that combines tender turkey meat, cheesy goodness, and nutritious vegetables. This comforting dish is perfect for a family dinner or a potluck gathering.

History

The exact origins of Turkey Cheese Bake are unclear, but casseroles have been a popular dish in American cuisine for decades. This recipe likely evolved from the classic combination of turkey and cheese, with the addition of vegetables for added flavor and nutrition.

Ingredients

4 cups frozen hash browns, thawed
10 oz (283 g) frozen broccoli florets, thawed
8 oz (227 g) skinless white turkey meat, cooked and cubed
0.25 tsp salt
4 oz (113 g) cheddar cheese, shredded
3 eggs
0.67 cup milk
1 tsp salt
1 tsp freshly ground black pepper

How to prepare

Preheat the oven to 375°F (191°C).
Prepare a 2 qt (1.89 liter) casserole dish by greasing it with cooking spray, then set it aside.
In a mixing bowl, combine the potatoes, broccoli, turkey, and 0.25 tsp of salt.
Mix well, then place half of the mixture into the prepared dish and top it with half of the cheese. Add the remaining potato mixture and cheese on top, then set it aside.
Meanwhile, in another bowl, combine the eggs, milk, remaining salt, and black pepper. Mix well, then pour the mixture evenly over the potato mixture in the casserole dish.
Bake for 40 minutes.

Variations

Substitute the turkey with chicken or ham for a different flavor.
Add some diced bell peppers or mushrooms for extra vegetables.
Use different types of cheese, such as mozzarella or Swiss, for a unique twist.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Thaw the hash browns and broccoli before using them in the recipe to ensure even cooking.

- Be sure to grease the casserole dish well to prevent sticking.

- Feel free to customize the recipe by adding your favorite vegetables or spices.

- For a crispy topping, sprinkle some breadcrumbs or crushed crackers on top before baking.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Turkey Cheese Bake with a side salad or some crusty bread for a complete meal.

Cooking Techniques

Baking is the primary cooking technique used in this recipe.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use fresh potatoes instead of frozen hash browns.

- Swap the broccoli for cauliflower or green beans.

- Replace the cheddar cheese with your favorite cheese variety.

Make Ahead Tips

You can prepare the Turkey Cheese Bake ahead of time and refrigerate it until ready to bake. Simply cover the dish with foil and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours.

Presentation Ideas

Garnish the Turkey Cheese Bake with fresh herbs, such as parsley or chives, before serving for a pop of color.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair Turkey Cheese Bake with a crisp white wine or a light beer for a delicious meal.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers of Turkey Cheese Bake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Turkey Cheese Bake contains approximately 300 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Turkey Cheese Bake contains approximately 25 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of Turkey Cheese Bake contains approximately 15 grams of fat.

Proteins

Each serving of Turkey Cheese Bake contains approximately 20 grams of protein.

Vitamins and minerals

Turkey Cheese Bake is a good source of vitamin A, vitamin C, calcium, and iron.

Alergens

This recipe contains dairy (cheese and milk) and eggs.

Summary

Turkey Cheese Bake is a balanced meal that provides a good mix of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins, along with essential vitamins and minerals.

Summary

Turkey Cheese Bake is a comforting and satisfying dish that is easy to make and perfect for any occasion. With its combination of tender turkey, cheesy goodness, and nutritious vegetables, this casserole is sure to become a family favorite.

How did I get this recipe?

I have a clear memory of the first time I discovered this recipe for Turkey Cheese Bake. It was many years ago, when I was just a young girl living in a small town in the countryside. My grandmother, who was an amazing cook, had invited me to help her in the kitchen one Sunday afternoon. She had promised to teach me a new recipe that she had learned from a friend many years ago.

As we gathered the ingredients and preheated the oven, my grandmother began to tell me the story of how she had learned to make this delicious dish. She said that she had been visiting a friend in a neighboring town when she first tasted the Turkey Cheese Bake. It was love at first bite, and she immediately asked her friend for the recipe.

The friend, a kind elderly lady with a passion for cooking, was more than happy to share her recipe with my grandmother. They spent the afternoon cooking together, and my grandmother learned all the tricks and tips for making the perfect Turkey Cheese Bake.

From that day on, my grandmother made the dish for special occasions and family gatherings. It quickly became a favorite among our family and friends, and my grandmother became known for her delicious Turkey Cheese Bake.

As my grandmother and I worked together in the kitchen that Sunday afternoon, she shared all the secrets of the recipe with me. She showed me how to season the turkey just right, how to layer the cheese and breadcrumbs for the perfect texture, and how to bake it to golden perfection.

I watched in awe as my grandmother worked her magic in the kitchen, her hands moving with grace and precision. I could see the passion and love she poured into every dish she made, and I knew that I wanted to be just like her one day.

After a few hours of cooking and baking, the Turkey Cheese Bake was finally ready. The rich aroma filled the kitchen, and my mouth watered in anticipation. My grandmother and I sat down at the table, and she served us each a generous portion of the dish.

As I took my first bite, I was transported back to that small town kitchen where my grandmother had first discovered the recipe. The flavors were rich and comforting, and the cheese melted in my mouth. It was a taste of home and family, and I knew that this dish would always hold a special place in my heart.

Years passed, and I continued to make the Turkey Cheese Bake for my own family and friends. I shared the recipe with anyone who asked, just as my grandmother had shared it with me. And with each bite, I felt connected to my past and the generations of women who had passed down their love of cooking and good food.

Now, as I look back on that Sunday afternoon in the kitchen with my grandmother, I am grateful for the memories and the lessons she taught me. I may have learned how to make the Turkey Cheese Bake that day, but more importantly, I learned the importance of tradition, family, and the joy of sharing a delicious meal with the ones you love. And for that, I will always be grateful to my grandmother and her love of cooking.