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Delight your taste buds with a comforting and nutritious dish that combines the wholesome goodness of turkey, broccoli, and cheese in a satisfying casserole. The Cheesy Turkey & Broccoli Rice Casserole is not only simple to prepare but also a family favorite that brings everyone to the table. With its creamy base and crisp topping, this casserole is perfect for weeknight dinners or meal prep for the busy days ahead. In this article, we will explore the step-by-step process of creating this delicious meal, the benefits of its ingredients, and how to elevate your casserole game.

Cheesy Turkey and Broccoli Rice Casserole

Indulge in a comforting and nutritious Cheesy Turkey & Broccoli Rice Casserole that brings the family together for a delicious meal. This easy-to-make dish combines lean turkey, vibrant broccoli, creamy cheese, and flavorful spices for a satisfying blend of tastes and textures. Perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep, it offers a wholesome balance of protein, veggies, and carbs, making it an ideal go-to recipe in your kitchen. Join us as we guide you step-by-step in creating this delightful casserole that’s sure to become a favorite!

Ingredients
  

2 cups cooked rice (white or brown)

1 lb ground turkey

2 cups fresh broccoli florets (or frozen)

1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (plus extra for topping)

1 cup cream of mushroom soup (store-bought or homemade)

1/2 cup milk

1/2 tsp garlic powder

1/2 tsp onion powder

1 tsp Italian seasoning

Salt and pepper to taste

1/2 cup breadcrumbs (optional, for added crunch on top)

Cooking spray or olive oil for greasing the baking dish

Instructions
 

Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure it's ready for baking.

    Cook the Turkey: In a large skillet set over medium heat, add a drizzle of olive oil. Introduce the ground turkey, using a spatula to break it apart. Season the meat with garlic powder, onion powder, Italian seasoning, and salt and pepper to taste. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the turkey is browned and fully cooked. Once done, remove from heat.

      Blanch the Broccoli: If you're using fresh broccoli, bring a small pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the broccoli florets and blanch them for 2-3 minutes until they are bright green and tender-crisp. Drain and set aside. For frozen broccoli, simply thaw the florets while you prepare the other ingredients.

        Mix the Casserole Base: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked rice, browned turkey, blanched broccoli, cream of mushroom soup, and milk. Stir until everything is well combined. Gently fold in 1 cup of the shredded cheddar cheese until evenly distributed.

          Assemble the Casserole: Lightly coat a 9x13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or olive oil. Pour the rice mixture into the dish, spreading it out evenly to ensure even cooking.

            Add Toppings: Generously sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese over the top of the casserole. If you like a crunchy topping, add the breadcrumbs in an even layer for extra texture.

              Bake: Place the casserole in your preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the casserole is heated through and the cheese is melted, bubbly, and slightly golden.

                Serve: Allow the casserole to cool for a few minutes before serving. Scoop out hearty portions and dig into your delightful cheesy turkey and broccoli rice casserole!

                  Prep Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 50 minutes | Servings: 6

                    - Presentation Tips: For an inviting presentation, serve the casserole in vibrant bowls and garnish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley or a few extra broccoli florets on the side.