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Cozy Comfort Turkey & Rice Casserole is the ultimate dish for those chilly nights when you crave something warm and fulfilling. This one-pot meal combines ground turkey, rice, and a medley of vegetables, all enveloped in a creamy, flavorful sauce. Not only is it easy to prepare, but it also provides a comforting hug in a dish, making it perfect for family gatherings or weeknight dinners. In this article, we will explore the ingredients, step-by-step instructions, and the many reasons why this casserole should become a staple in your meal rotation.

Homestyle Turkey and Rice Casserole

Discover the ultimate comfort food with this Cozy Comfort Turkey & Rice Casserole! Perfect for chilly nights, this one-pot dish combines ground turkey, rice, and a medley of vegetables, all wrapped in a creamy sauce. Easy to prepare and deliciously satisfying, it’s ideal for family dinners or gatherings. With simple ingredients and a step-by-step guide, this recipe will ensure your meal is warm, hearty, and packed with flavor. Make it a staple in your kitchen!

Ingredients
  

1 lb ground turkey

1 cup long-grain white rice

2 cups low-sodium chicken broth

1 cup milk (either whole or 2%)

1 medium onion, diced

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 cup frozen mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, corn)

1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

1 teaspoon garlic powder

Salt and pepper, to taste

1 tablespoon olive oil

1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)

1/2 cup plain breadcrumbs

1 tablespoon butter, melted

Instructions
 

Preheat the oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) to prepare for baking.

    Sauté the turkey: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Once the oil is shimmering, add the diced onion. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes until the onions are soft and translucent. Incorporate the minced garlic and ground turkey into the pan. Cook, breaking the turkey apart with a spoon, until the turkey is thoroughly browned and cooked through, approximately 5-7 minutes. Season the mixture with salt, pepper, Italian seasoning, and garlic powder to enhance the flavor.

      Combine ingredients: In a spacious mixing bowl, combine the turkey mixture with the rinsed rice, chicken broth, milk, and frozen mixed vegetables. Stir the mixture well until all ingredients are evenly blended.

        Transfer to casserole dish: Pour the turkey and rice mixture into a greased 9x13 inch casserole dish, ensuring it is evenly spread out for uniform cooking.

          Prepare the topping: In a small bowl, combine the plain breadcrumbs with the melted butter, stirring until the crumbs are evenly coated. If desired, sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the casserole mixture, then top with the buttery breadcrumbs for an extra layer of crunch.

            Bake: Cover the casserole dish with aluminum foil and place it in the preheated oven. Bake for 30 minutes. After this time, remove the foil and allow it to bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and crispy.

              Serve: Once done, remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for about 5 minutes before serving. This resting time allows the flavors to settle. Serve warm and enjoy the comfort of this delightful dish!

                Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 15 minutes | 1 hour | 6-8 servings