Prep Time
20 min
Cook Time
35 min
Servings
6
Why You'll Love This Recipe
✓ Comfort in a Casserole:
A velvety cheese sauce embraces tender turkey and pasta, delivering a warm, satisfying dinner that feels homemade.
✓ Quick Weeknight Solution:
All components cook in under an hour, perfect for busy families who still crave a hearty, crowd‑pleasing meal.
✓ Flexible Ingredients:
Use leftover turkey, swap pasta shapes, or add veggies—customize without sacrificing flavor or texture.
Nothing says cozy like a bubbling casserole that brings together the best of turkey leftovers and creamy cheese. This Creamy Turkey Pasta Bake turns a simple pantry staple into a restaurant‑quality dish, perfect for a family dinner or a potluck gathering. The sauce stays silky, the pasta retains a pleasant bite, and the golden crust adds a satisfying crunch. Whether you’re repurposing a holiday roast or starting from scratch, this recipe guarantees flavor, comfort, and minimal cleanup—all in under an hour.
8 oz (225 g) penne pasta
Whole‑grain or gluten‑free alternatives work well.
1 cup (240 ml) low‑fat milk
Can replace with half‑and‑half for richer sauce.
1½ cups (170 g) shredded cheddar cheese
Sharp cheddar adds depth; mozzarella for stretch.
½ cup (50 g) grated Parmesan
Adds salty bite; optional.
2 tbsp (30 g) butter
Creates roux; can use olive oil.
2 tbsp (16 g) all‑purpose flour
Gluten‑free flour works as a substitute.
½ tsp garlic powder
Fresh minced garlic optional.
Salt and freshly ground black pepper
Season to taste.
