Cheesy Turkey and Potato Delight
This Cheesy Turkey and Potato Delight is a hearty and comforting casserole that brings together the wholesome goodness of potatoes, lean turkey, and a delightful blend of flavors. Perfect for busy weeknights or feeding a crowd, this one-dish meal combines creamy textures with savory notes. The use of low-fat sour cream and ground turkey makes this an appealing lighter option without sacrificing taste. Whether enjoyed on a chilly evening or served as a potluck main dish, this casserole is sure to please both kids and adults alike.
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
12
Ingredients
Ingredients
Instant potato flakes
2 2/3 cups (none)
Water
1/2 cup (for potato mixture)
Low-fat sour cream
1 1/2 cups (none)
Ground turkey breast or ground chicken breast
1 lb (browned)
Olive oil
1-2 tablespoons (for browning meat)
Water
1/2 cup (for meat mixture)
Dried onion
1 tablespoon (none)
No-salt-added tomato sauce
15 ounces (none)
Whole kernel corn
12 ounces (drained)
Salt
1 teaspoon (optional) (none)
Oregano
1/4 teaspoon (none)
Cheddar cheese, diced
1 cup (diced)
Instructions
1
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2
In a large 13x9 inch baking pan, combine the instant potato flakes, low-fat sour cream, and the first 1/2 cup of water until well blended. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of the pan to create a solid base.
3
In a skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground turkey (or chicken) and cook until browned and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes.
4
Once the meat is browned, stir in the remaining 1/2 cup of water, dried onion, tomato sauce, drained whole kernel corn, optional salt, and oregano. Mix well to combine all ingredients.
5
Spoon the turkey and vegetable mixture evenly over the potato layer in the baking pan.
6
Sprinkle the diced cheddar cheese generously over the top.
7
Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Cheesy Turkey and Potato Delight?
It is a hearty and comforting casserole that combines ground turkey, potatoes, and a blend of savory flavors in a single dish.
What is the recommended oven temperature for this recipe?
The oven should be preheated to 350°F (175°C) before baking the casserole.
How long does this casserole need to bake?
The dish should bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
What kind of meat can be used in this recipe?
The recipe calls for one pound of ground turkey breast or ground chicken breast.
What ingredients make up the potato base?
The base is created by combining instant potato flakes, low-fat sour cream, and water.
Is this recipe considered a healthy option?
Yes, it uses lean ground turkey and low-fat sour cream to provide a lighter version of traditional comfort food.
Can I substitute ground chicken for the ground turkey?
Yes, ground chicken breast is a perfectly suitable substitute for ground turkey in this recipe.
What type of cheese is used for the topping?
One cup of diced cheddar cheese is sprinkled generously over the top of the casserole.
Do I need to drain the corn before adding it?
Yes, the 12 ounces of whole kernel corn should be drained before being mixed into the turkey mixture.
What size baking pan is required?
A large 13x9 inch baking pan is used to assemble and bake this casserole.
Can I use fresh potatoes instead of instant flakes?
While the recipe specifies instant flakes for convenience, you could use mashed fresh potatoes as an alternative base.
What can I use instead of low-fat sour cream?
Plain Greek yogurt or regular sour cream can be used as a substitute for low-fat sour cream.
Is frozen corn an acceptable substitute for canned corn?
Yes, you can use frozen whole kernel corn; just ensure it is thawed or cooked briefly before adding.
What is a good substitute for dried onion?
You can use finely chopped fresh onion or a small amount of onion powder if dried onion is unavailable.
Can I use a different type of cheese than cheddar?
Yes, Monterey Jack, Colby, or mozzarella would also work well as a topping for this dish.
How can I make this casserole vegetarian?
You can replace the ground turkey with a plant-based meat alternative or a variety of cooked beans.
What can be used if I do not have tomato sauce?
Marinara sauce or crushed tomatoes can be used as a replacement for the no-salt-added tomato sauce.
Can I add extra vegetables to this recipe?
Yes, adding diced bell peppers, peas, or carrots to the turkey mixture is a great way to include more nutrients.
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the layers and keep the pan refrigerated until you are ready to bake it.
How should leftovers be stored?
Leftovers should be placed in an airtight container and kept in the refrigerator for up to 3 or 4 days.
Is it possible to freeze this casserole?
Yes, this casserole freezes well; wrap it tightly and freeze for up to three months.
What is the best way to reheat the leftovers?
Reheat portions in the microwave or place the pan back in the oven at 350°F until warmed through.
Do I need to brown the turkey before putting it in the oven?
Yes, the ground turkey should be browned in a skillet with olive oil for 6-8 minutes before assembly.
How do I ensure the potato layer is firm?
Make sure to press the mixture of flakes, sour cream, and water firmly into the bottom of the pan.
Can I use fresh onion instead of dried?
Yes, if using fresh onion, sauté it with the ground turkey to ensure it is fully cooked.
What side dishes go well with this casserole?
A fresh green salad or steamed green beans complement the creamy and savory nature of this dish.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
The core ingredients are often gluten-free, but you must check the labels on your potato flakes and tomato sauce to be sure.
Is this dish suitable for children?
Yes, the combination of potatoes, mild turkey, and cheese makes it a very kid-friendly meal.
Is this recipe good for feeding a crowd?
Yes, this one-dish meal is designed to be hearty and is easily served to a family or group.
What is the general flavor profile of this dish?
It features a creamy potato base topped with a savory, herb-infused meat sauce and melted cheddar cheese.