Gourmet Turkey Divan Casserole
Indulge in the rich flavors of our Gourmet Turkey Divan Casserole, where tender turkey breast meets creamy, cheesy goodness. Unlike traditional recipes that rely on condensed soups, this homemade version is crafted from scratch, ensuring a depth of flavor that will impress your family and friends. Creamy, cheesy, and satisfying, this dish is layered with nutritious, thawed broccoli and fluffy Minute Rice, all topped with a golden layer of melted cheddar and Parmesan. Pair it with a crisp tossed salad for a delightful balanced meal that brings everyone together around the table.
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
8
Ingredients
Ingredients
Reduced-fat mayonnaise
1/2 cup (none)
All-purpose flour
1/4 cup (none)
1% low-fat milk
2 1/2 cups (none)
Low-fat cheddar cheese, shredded
4 ounces (shredded)
Frozen broccoli
16 ounces (thawed)
Minute Rice
1 1/2 cups (uncooked)
Grated Parmesan cheese
1/2 cup (none)
Turkey breast, sliced and uncooked
1 lb (sliced)
Instructions
1
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2
In a medium saucepan, combine the reduced-fat mayonnaise and all-purpose flour over low heat, whisking constantly until the mixture is smooth and creamy, about 1 minute.
3
Slowly add the 1% low-fat milk, whisking continuously over medium heat until the mixture thickens into a smooth, pourable sauce. Be careful not to let it get too thick; you want a creamy consistency.
4
Stir in the shredded low-fat cheddar cheese and continue stirring until fully melted and incorporated into the sauce. Remove from heat.
5
In a 12 x 8-inch baking dish, layer the thawed broccoli evenly across the bottom, followed by the uncooked Minute Rice.
6
Pour half of the creamy cheese sauce over the broccoli and rice, then sprinkle half of the grated Parmesan cheese on top.
7
Next, arrange the sliced turkey breast evenly over the layered mixture, followed by the remaining cheese sauce and finally the rest of the Parmesan topping.
8
Bake in the preheated oven for 30 to 35 minutes, or until the turkey is cooked through (reaching an internal temperature of 170°F) and the casserole is bubbly and golden on top.
9
Let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy with a fresh tossed salad for a complete meal!
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Gourmet Turkey Divan Casserole?
It is a homemade version of the classic Divan dish, featuring tender turkey breast, broccoli, and Minute Rice in a from-scratch creamy cheese sauce, without the use of condensed soups.
How does this recipe differ from traditional Turkey Divan?
Unlike traditional recipes that rely on processed condensed soups, this gourmet version uses a homemade sauce crafted from flour, milk, and real cheese for a deeper flavor profile.
What are the main ingredients in this casserole?
The main ingredients include turkey breast, frozen broccoli, Minute Rice, reduced-fat mayonnaise, all-purpose flour, 1% milk, low-fat cheddar, and Parmesan cheese.
Is the turkey pre-cooked or raw when added to the dish?
The recipe calls for 1 lb of sliced, uncooked turkey breast, which cooks through during the baking process.
At what temperature should the oven be set?
The oven should be preheated to 350°F (175°C) before baking the casserole.
How long does the Gourmet Turkey Divan Casserole need to bake?
It should bake for 30 to 35 minutes until the turkey is cooked through and the top is bubbly and golden.
What internal temperature should the turkey reach?
The turkey should reach a safe internal temperature of 170°F.
Can I use regular rice instead of Minute Rice?
This recipe specifically uses uncooked Minute Rice because it cooks quickly in the sauce; regular rice would likely remain hard unless it was pre-cooked.
Do I need to cook the broccoli before adding it to the casserole?
No, you should use frozen broccoli that has been thawed, but it does not need to be pre-cooked.
What size baking dish is required?
The recipe recommends using a 12 x 8-inch baking dish.
How do I make the creamy cheese sauce?
Whisk reduced-fat mayonnaise and flour over low heat, slowly add 1% milk until thickened, and then stir in shredded low-fat cheddar until melted.
Can I use a different type of milk?
Yes, while 1% low-fat milk is suggested for a healthier version, you can substitute it with whole milk or 2% milk.
What should I serve as a side dish with this casserole?
A fresh, crisp tossed salad is recommended to provide a delightful balance to the rich, creamy casserole.
Is this recipe considered healthy?
Yes, it uses reduced-fat mayonnaise, low-fat milk, and low-fat cheese, making it a lighter alternative to traditional versions.
Can I substitute the turkey with chicken?
Yes, sliced uncooked chicken breast can be used as a direct substitute for the turkey.
What is the role of mayonnaise in the sauce?
The reduced-fat mayonnaise acts as a fat base to combine with the flour, creating a smooth roux-like foundation for the creamy sauce.
How many ingredients are needed for this recipe?
The recipe requires 8 total ingredients.
Should the sauce be very thick before pouring?
No, you want it to be a smooth, pourable consistency so it can properly hydrate the Minute Rice during baking.
How do I layer the ingredients in the baking dish?
Layer broccoli first, then rice, half the sauce, half the Parmesan, the turkey, the rest of the sauce, and finally the remaining Parmesan.
What is the texture of the finished casserole?
The casserole is creamy and satisfying, with a golden, melted cheese topping and fluffy rice.
Can I use fresh broccoli instead of frozen?
Yes, but you may want to lightly steam fresh broccoli first to ensure it is tender after the 30-35 minute baking time.
Is the Minute Rice cooked before layering?
No, the Minute Rice should be added to the baking dish uncooked.
Can I add extra seasoning to the sauce?
While the recipe focuses on the natural flavors of the cheese and turkey, you can certainly add salt, pepper, or garlic powder to the sauce if desired.
What kind of cheese is used for the topping?
Grated Parmesan cheese is used for the topping to create a golden, flavorful crust.
How do I prevent the sauce from getting too thick on the stove?
Whisk continuously over medium heat and remove it from the heat as soon as the cheese is melted and the consistency is pourable.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
You can assemble the layers ahead of time, but the rice may absorb the sauce's moisture if left too long before baking; it is best baked shortly after assembly.
Is this a good recipe for families?
Yes, it is described as a family meal and comfort food that is sure to impress family and friends.
Can I use a different cheese instead of cheddar?
Yes, you can substitute cheddar with other melting cheeses like Monterey Jack or Swiss, though it will change the flavor profile.
How should I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator and consume within 3 to 4 days.
Does the recipe require any specialized kitchen tools?
You only need basic kitchen items: a medium saucepan, a whisk, and a 12 x 8-inch baking dish.