As the leaves turn and the air gets crisp, nothing hits the spot quite like a hearty Savory Autumn Turkey Casserole. This dish combines the rich flavors of fall into a cozy meal that warms you up from the inside out, making it a perfect choice for a family dinner or a festive gathering.
Cooked turkey breast is the star, providing protein and a familiar comfort. If you're using leftovers, this is a great way to give them new life. Onions, celery, and mushrooms add a savory base, while garlic gives a little punch of flavor. Cooked wild rice adds a nutty texture and pairs beautifully with the turkey. For a touch of sweetness, dried cranberries are scattered throughout. Pecans offer a delightful crunch, making each bite interesting. The broth and heavy cream create a luscious sauce that ties everything together. Finally, Parmesan cheese, thyme, and rosemary add depth and richness, while salt and pepper let you adjust the seasoning to perfection.
This casserole is heartwarming on its own but pairs beautifully with a simple, crisp green salad dressed with a light vinaigrette. For something a bit more indulgent, serve alongside buttery mashed potatoes or roasted root vegetables to complement the fall flavors.
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) so it's nice and hot when you're ready to bake. Grab a large skillet and heat up 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Once it's shimmering, toss in the chopped onions, celery, and sliced mushrooms. Let them sauté together for about 5 minutes until they've softened and melded their flavors.
Add the minced garlic to the skillet and stir it around for another minute. You want it to become fragrant but not too browned. Now, in a large mixing bowl, combine your cubed turkey, cooked wild rice, dried cranberries, and chopped pecans. This is the heart of your casserole.
Pour the sautéed veggies over the turkey mixture. Add the broth, heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, thyme, and rosemary. Give it all a good stir to make sure everything is evenly coated and mixed together. Season generously with salt and pepper to taste.
Transfer this mixture into a greased 9x13-inch casserole dish, spreading it out evenly. Pop it into your preheated oven and let it bake for 30-35 minutes. You'll know it's ready when the top is golden and slightly crisp.
Once out of the oven, let it cool for a few minutes before serving. This will give the flavors a chance to settle and make it easier to cut into portions.
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