Turkey Divan is a cozy dish made with tender turkey, creamy sauce, and veggies, all baked with a crispy topping. It’s like a warm hug on a plate—perfect for chilly days!
I love how it brings together leftovers and still tastes like a fancy meal. Serve it with some rice or bread, and you’ve got a comforting feast that everyone will enjoy!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cooked Turkey: Use leftover turkey for a quick meal. If turkey isn’t available, you can substitute with cooked chicken or even rotisserie chicken, which is super convenient!
Broccoli: Fresh broccoli is great, but if you don’t have it, frozen broccoli works just as well. Just make sure it’s fully thawed and well-drained to avoid excess water in your dish.
Mayonnaise and Sour Cream: These add creaminess. If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can swap with Greek yogurt for a tangy touch or cottage cheese for a protein boost.
Curry Powder: This gives a unique flavor, but if you’re not a fan, try using garlic powder or Italian seasoning instead for a different twist.
Cheddar Cheese: I love sharp cheddar, but feel free to use any cheese you enjoy, like Monterey Jack or mozzarella. For a dairy-free version, consider cashew cheese or a dairy-free cream cheese.
How Do I Make the Casserole Creamy and Delicious?
The creaminess in your Turkey Divan comes from combining mayonnaise and sour cream. This mixture coats the turkey and broccoli beautifully. Here’s how to nail it:
- Mix the mayonnaise and sour cream with lemon juice, curry powder, salt, and pepper until smooth. This will form the base sauce.
- Gently fold in your cooked turkey and steamed broccoli. Be careful not to mash them.
- Spread the mixture evenly in the baking dish before adding the cheese on top.
These steps ensure every bite is creamy and full of flavor! Plus, baking it until bubbly and golden creates that irresistible crust.
Turkey Divan
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Casserole:
- 2 cups cooked turkey breast, diced or shredded
- 2 cups broccoli florets, steamed until tender
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon curry powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided
Optional Topping:
- 1/2 cup Panko breadcrumbs or crushed potato chips
- 1 tablespoon butter (if using breadcrumbs)
Time Needed:
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and around 25-30 minutes to bake. So, you’ll have a delightful Turkey Divan ready in just about 45 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Take a baking dish and lightly grease it with some cooking spray or butter, so your casserole doesn’t stick.
2. Mix the Sauce:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the mayonnaise, sour cream, lemon juice, curry powder, salt, and black pepper. Stir everything together until it’s nice and smooth. This creamy mixture is what brings all the flavors together!
3. Combine Turkey and Broccoli:
Gently add your cooked turkey and tender broccoli florets into the creamy sauce. Make sure to stir gently so everything gets coated well without breaking up the broccoli too much.
4. Layer in the Baking Dish:
Pour the turkey and broccoli mixture into your prepared baking dish. Spread it out evenly so it cooks thoroughly. This is the base of your delicious casserole!
5. Add Cheese:
Sprinkle 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese all over the top of the turkey and broccoli layer. This will melt beautifully while baking!
6. Prepare the Topping (if using):
If you want that extra crunch, melt the butter in a small bowl and mix it with the Panko breadcrumbs or crushed potato chips. Sprinkle this mixture over the cheese for an amazing crispy topping.
7. Bake:
Place your casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when it’s bubbly and the top is golden brown—just what we love to see!
8. Cool and Serve:
Once out of the oven, let it cool for a few minutes before serving. This gives the casserole a chance to set a bit, making it easier to scoop. Enjoy your hearty and creamy Turkey Divan!
Your Turkey Divan is now ready—a delightful dish perfect for sharing with family or friends. Enjoy each savory bite!
Can I Use Frozen Broccoli for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Frozen broccoli works perfectly. Just make sure to thaw and drain it well to avoid excess moisture in the casserole.
What Can I Substitute for Mayonnaise and Sour Cream?
If you’re looking for lighter options, try using Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise and sour cream. It will still provide creaminess with a bit of tang!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it gently in the oven or microwave, adding a splash of milk or broth if it seems dry.
Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can assemble the casserole a day in advance and refrigerate it before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the bake time if it’s coming straight from the fridge!