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If you're craving comfort food with a twist, this Ground Turkey Mac and Cheese Casserole is your go-to dish. It's hearty, cheesy, and packed with flavor. Perfect for a family dinner or meal prep, this casserole combines the richness of shredded cheddar cheese with the savory goodness of ground turkey. Let's dive into this easy, delicious recipe that will have everyone asking for seconds!
The name of the recipe: Ground Turkey Mac and Cheese Casserole Recipe
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground turkey
- 2 cups macaroni
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup milk
- 1 tbsp butter
- 1 tbsp flour
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tsp black pepper
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Cook the macaroni according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- In a skillet, cook the ground turkey over medium heat until browned. Drain any excess fat.
- In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the flour and cook for 1 minute.
- Gradually whisk in the milk and cook until the mixture thickens. Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until melted.
- Combine the cooked macaroni, ground turkey, and cheese sauce. Season with salt and pepper.
- Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and bake for 20-25 minutes, until bubbly and golden on top.
What You Will Need for This Delicious Casserole
What you will need to make Ground Turkey Mac and Cheese Casserole
- Ground turkey: Adds a lean protein source, making the dish hearty and filling without excess fat.
- Macaroni: The pasta base that holds the casserole together, providing texture and substance.
- Shredded cheddar cheese: Melts into a creamy, flavorful sauce that binds all ingredients.
- Milk: Helps create a smooth, rich cheese sauce, adding creaminess.
- Butter: Adds richness and helps form the base of the cheese sauce.
- Flour: Thickens the cheese sauce, ensuring it coats the macaroni evenly.
Essential Tools and Instruments
What tools/instruments will be needed to make Ground Turkey Mac and Cheese Casserole Recipe
- Skillet: Essential for browning the ground turkey evenly, ensuring it cooks through without burning.
- Saucepan: Needed to make the cheese sauce, allowing for gradual thickening and melting of the cheese.
- Baking dish: Used to bake the combined ingredients, ensuring the casserole is cooked evenly and develops a golden top.
- Whisk: Helps in mixing the flour and milk smoothly, preventing lumps in the cheese sauce.
- Colander: Drains the cooked macaroni, removing excess water to avoid a soggy casserole.
Ground Turkey Mac and Cheese Casserole Recipe
A hearty and delicious casserole combining ground turkey and creamy mac and cheese.
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Ingredients:
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb ground turkey
- 2 cups macaroni
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup milk
- 1 tbsp butter
- 1 tbsp flour
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tsp black pepper
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Cook the macaroni according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- In a skillet, cook the ground turkey over medium heat until browned. Drain any excess fat.
- In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the flour and cook for 1 minute.
- Gradually whisk in the milk and cook until the mixture thickens. Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until melted.
- Combine the cooked macaroni, ground turkey, and cheese sauce. Season with salt and pepper.
- Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and bake for 20-25 minutes, until bubbly and golden on top.
Notes:
Feel free to add some veggies like peas or broccoli for extra nutrition.
Read more: Mexican Mac and Cheese Casserole Recipe
Nutrition value:
Calories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 25gFat: 25gSaturated Fat: 12gCholesterol: 90mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 500mgFiber: 2gSugar: 5gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 2mgCalcium: 300mgIron: 3mg
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Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
Make Ahead and Freezing Tips
Make Ahead Instructions
- Prepare the casserole up to the baking step.
- Cover tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
- Store in the fridge for up to 2 days.
- When ready to bake, remove from the fridge and let it sit at room temperature for 30 minutes.
- Bake as directed.
Freezing Instructions
- Assemble the casserole but don't bake it.
- Wrap tightly with plastic wrap, then cover with aluminum foil.
- Label with the date and freeze for up to 3 months.
- To bake, thaw in the fridge overnight.
- Let it sit at room temperature for 30 minutes.
- Bake as directed, adding an extra 10-15 minutes if needed.
For a richer flavor, try adding a pinch of nutmeg to the cheese sauce. It adds a subtle warmth that complements the cheddar perfectly.
Frequently Asked Questions
FAQ:
How can I make this dish gluten-free?
Use gluten-free macaroni and a gluten-free flour substitute.
Can I use a different type of cheese?
Absolutely, try mozzarella, gouda, or a mix of your favorites.
How do I store leftovers?
Keep them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Can I add vegetables to this casserole?
Yes, mix in some cooked broccoli, peas, or bell peppers.
Is it possible to freeze this casserole?
Yes, freeze it before baking. Thaw in the fridge overnight and bake as directed.
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