Turkey & Cheese Pasta Bake Recipe

This turkey and cheese pasta bake is a comforting dish that marries the rich flavors of roasted turkey with a creamy, cheesy sauce. Topping off with a crispy panko breadcrumb layer, it gives you a delightful crunch with every bite. Perfect for a family dinner or a hearty meal anytime.

Photos of Turkey & Cheese Pasta Bake Recipe

The Charter Reserve® GoldenRoast Special Recipe Turkey Breast might not be a common ingredient in your kitchen. It's a high-quality, pre-cooked turkey breast available in the deli section of supermarkets. If you can't find it, substitute with any good-quality roasted or smoked turkey breast. Another ingredient you might need to find is Colby Jack cheese, a mild and creamy cheese that melts beautifully, making it perfect for this recipe.

Ingredients for Turkey and Cheese Pasta Bake

Bacon: Adds a smoky flavor and crunchy texture.

White onion: Adds sweetness and depth to the flavor profile.

Fresh thyme: Provides an earthy taste.

Whole milk: Gives a creamy base to the dish.

Cream of chicken soup: Adds a rich, savory flavor.

Cream of mushroom soup: Enhances the dish with its creamy texture and umami taste.

Kosher salt: Enhances all the other flavors.

Colby jack cheese: Adds a creamy and gooey texture.

Parmesan cheese: Adds a nutty flavor and helps with browning the top.

Charter Reserve® GoldenRoast Special Recipe Turkey Breast: The star of the dish, provides a savory and hearty component.

Frozen broccoli: Adds a pop of color and a nutritious boost.

Penne pasta: A type of pasta that holds up well in baking and absorbs the sauce nicely.

Panko breadcrumbs: Gives a golden, crispy topping.

Unsalted butter: Used for sautéing and adding richness.

Fresh parsley: Adds a fresh, bright finish to the dish.

One reader, Lauraine Oglesby says:

This turkey and cheese pasta bake recipe is a game-changer! The combination of creamy cheese, savory turkey, and perfectly cooked pasta is simply irresistible. The flavors blend so well, and the dish is so comforting. It's become a family favorite in no time!

Lauraine Oglesby

Techniques Required for Making a Perfect Pasta Bake

How to prepare the baking pan: Coat a 9x13-inch pan with cooking spray and set it aside for later use.

How to cook bacon: In a medium skillet over high heat, add bacon and water. Cook, stirring every 2 minutes until bacon is crispy, for 10 minutes. Once the bacon is crispy, remove it from the pan using a slotted spoon and set it aside. Leave the bacon fat in the skillet.

How to sauté onions: In the skillet with the remaining bacon fat, add the onion and sauté for 3 minutes until softened. Remove from heat.

How to mix the ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, mix together bacon, onion, thyme, whole milk, cream of chicken soup, cream of mushroom soup, kosher salt, 2 cups of colby-jack cheese, and a ¼ cup of grated parmesan cheese.

How to assemble the pasta bake: Add in charter reserve® goldenroast special recipe turkey breast, frozen broccoli, and cooked penne. Mix to coat everything evenly with the cheese and soup mixture.

How to layer the pasta bake: Pour half the mixture into the prepared pan and smooth with a spatula. Sprinkle with the remaining 1 cup of colby-jack cheese. Add the rest of the pasta on top.

How to prepare the breadcrumb topping: In a small bowl, mix together the panko bread crumbs, melted butter, and remaining ¼ cup of parmesan cheese and sprinkle evenly on top of the pasta mixture.

How to bake the pasta bake: Bake for 30 to 40 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and bread crumbs are golden brown.

How to garnish and serve: Remove from the oven, let cool for 5 minutes, garnish with parsley, and serve.

How To Make Turkey & Cheese Pasta Bake

Cook up a hearty plate of pasta bake for your big dinner tonight! It’s made savory with delicious turkey, crunchy veggies, and creamy cheese.

Preparation: 10 minutes

Cooking: 53 minutes

Cool Time: 5 minutes

Total: 1 hour 8 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

1lbbacon
2tbspwater
½white onion,diced small
1tbspfresh thyme,chopped
1cupwhole milk
8ozcream of chicken soup
8ozcream of mushroom soup
2tspkosher salt
3cupscolby jack cheese,grated, divided
½cupparmesan cheese,grated, divided
1lbCharter Reserve® Goldenroast Special Recipe Turkey Breast,deli, sliced, cut into ½-inch pieces
14ozfrozen broccoli
1lbpenne pasta,cooked for 2 minutes less than package instructions
½cuppanko breadcrumbs
2tbspunsalted butter,melted
2tbspfresh parsley,chopped

Instructions

Preheat oven to 350 degrees F.
Coat a 9×13-inch pan with cooking spray and set aside.
In a medium skillet over high heat, add bacon and water.
Cook, stirring every 2 minutes until bacon is crispy, for 10 minutes.
Once the bacon is crispy, remove it from the pan using a slotted spoon and set aside. Leave bacon fat in the skillet.
In the skillet with the remaining bacon fat, add the onion and sauté for 3 minutes until softened. Remove from heat.
In a large mixing bowl, mix together bacon, onion, thyme, whole milk, cream of chicken soup, cream of mushroom soup, kosher salt, 2 cups of Colby-Jack cheese, and a ¼ cup of grated Parmesan cheese.
Add in Charter Reserve® Goldenroast Special Recipe Turkey Breast, frozen broccoli, and cooked penne.
Mix to coat everything evenly with the cheese and soup mixture.
Pour half the mixture into the prepared pan and smooth with a spatula.
Sprinkle with the remaining 1 cup of Colby-Jack cheese.
Add the rest of the pasta on top.
In a small bowl, mix together the panko bread crumbs, melted butter, and remaining ¼ cup of Parmesan cheese and sprinkle evenly on top of the pasta mixture.
Bake for 30 to 40 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and bread crumbs are golden brown.
Remove from the oven.
Let cool for 5 minutes.
Garnish with parsley, serve, and enjoy!

Nutrition

Calories: 704.88kcal
Fat: 41.75g
Saturated Fat: 18.59g
Trans Fat: 0.16g
Monounsaturated Fat: 14.81g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 5.30g
Carbohydrates: 44.71g
Fiber: 2.93g
Sugar: 4.30g
Protein: 36.56g
Cholesterol: 111.55mg
Sodium: 935.68mg
Calcium: 439.07mg
Potassium: 568.62mg
Iron: 2.21mg
Vitamin A: 188.20µg
Vitamin C: 37.28mg

Crucial Technique Tip for Achieving the Best Results

When cooking the bacon, adding a bit of water at the beginning can help render the fat more evenly and prevent the bacon from burning. It also creates a nice, crispy texture. Additionally, when mixing the pasta with the cheese and soup mixture, ensure that every piece is well coated. This will result in a more flavorful and creamy pasta bake. Lastly, for a golden and crispy topping, make sure to evenly distribute the panko breadcrumbs and parmesan cheese mixture on top of the pasta before baking.

Time-Saving Tips for Preparing This Recipe

Prep ahead: Chop vegetables, cook pasta, and prepare the turkey in advance to save time during the actual cooking process.

One-pot cooking: Consider using a large skillet or pot to cook the pasta and other ingredients together, reducing the number of dishes to clean up later.

Batch cooking: Make a larger portion and freeze the extra for a quick and easy meal on a busy day.

Use pre-cooked turkey: Save time by using pre-cooked turkey, such as leftover Thanksgiving turkey or store-bought roasted turkey, instead of cooking it from scratch.

Organize ingredients: Before starting the recipe, gather and organize all the ingredients and kitchen tools to streamline the cooking process.

Multi-task: While the pasta is cooking, prepare the other components of the dish to maximize efficiency in the kitchen.

Invest in kitchen gadgets: Consider using kitchen gadgets like a food processor or vegetable chopper to speed up the prep work for this recipe.

Follow the recipe: Stick to the provided recipe to avoid unnecessary steps or complications, saving time and effort in the kitchen.

Substitute Ingredients For Turkey & Cheese Pasta Bake Recipe

turkey breast - Substitute with chicken breast: Chicken breast can be used as a substitute for turkey breast in this recipe, as it has a similar texture and flavor profile.
colby jack cheese - Substitute with cheddar cheese: Cheddar cheese can be used as a substitute for colby jack cheese, as it melts well and has a rich, sharp flavor that complements the dish.
cream of chicken soup - Substitute with cream of celery soup: Cream of celery soup can be used as a substitute for cream of chicken soup, adding a similar creamy texture and savory flavor to the dish.
cream of mushroom soup - Substitute with cream of broccoli soup: Cream of broccoli soup can be used as a substitute for cream of mushroom soup, providing a creamy base with a hint of vegetable flavor.
charter reserve® goldenroast special recipe turkey breast - Substitute with smoked ham: Smoked ham can be used as a substitute for turkey breast, adding a rich, smoky flavor to the dish.
penne pasta - Substitute with rigatoni: Rigatoni can be used as a substitute for penne pasta, as it has a similar shape and texture, holding the sauce well.
panko breadcrumbs - Substitute with regular breadcrumbs: Regular breadcrumbs can be used as a substitute for panko breadcrumbs, providing a similar crunch and texture when baked.

Presenting Your Turkey and Cheese Pasta Bake

Elevate the plating: When presenting the turkey and cheese pasta bake, focus on creating a visually appealing plate. Use a large, flat plate to showcase the layers of the dish. Ensure that each component is visible and well-arranged, creating an inviting presentation.
Garnish with fresh herbs: Add a touch of freshness and color to the dish by garnishing with freshly chopped parsley. Sprinkle it delicately over the pasta bake to provide a vibrant contrast and a hint of earthy aroma.
Incorporate artistic drizzling: Enhance the visual appeal by drizzling a small amount of balsamic reduction on the plate. This not only adds a touch of elegance but also complements the flavors of the dish, creating a sophisticated presentation.
Utilize elegant serving ware: Opt for porcelain or ceramic dishes to serve the pasta bake. These classic and refined serving pieces will elevate the overall dining experience and demonstrate attention to detail.
Consider portion control: Present the turkey and cheese pasta bake in smaller, carefully portioned servings. This allows the flavors and textures to shine while also aligning with the principles of fine dining.

Essential Tools for Making a Delicious Pasta Bake

Chef's knife: A versatile tool used for chopping, slicing, and dicing ingredients with precision.
Cutting board: Provides a stable surface for cutting and preparing ingredients.
Skillet: Used for sautéing the bacon and onion, and for cooking various ingredients.
Slotted spoon: Ideal for removing the crispy bacon from the skillet while leaving excess fat behind.
Mixing bowl: Essential for combining and mixing the pasta bake ingredients thoroughly.
9x13-inch baking pan: Used for baking the pasta dish in the oven.
Spatula: Helps in smoothing and spreading the pasta mixture in the baking pan.
Small bowl: Used for mixing the panko breadcrumbs, melted butter, and parmesan cheese for the topping.
Oven: Needed for baking the turkey and cheese pasta bake to perfection.

Storing and Freezing Your Turkey and Cheese Pasta Bake

Allow the turkey and cheese pasta bake to cool completely before storing or freezing. This will prevent condensation from forming and making the dish soggy.
To store in the refrigerator, cover the baking dish tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. Alternatively, transfer the cooled pasta bake to an airtight container. It will keep in the fridge for up to 4 days.
For longer storage, freeze the pasta bake. Wrap the baking dish securely with plastic wrap, followed by a layer of aluminum foil. Label the dish with the date and contents. The pasta bake will maintain its best quality for up to 3 months in the freezer.
To reheat the refrigerated pasta bake, remove the plastic wrap or lid and cover the dish with aluminum foil. Bake in a preheated 350°F (175°C) oven for 20-30 minutes, or until heated through.
If reheating from frozen, remove the plastic wrap and cover the dish with foil. Bake the frozen pasta bake in a preheated 350°F (175°C) oven for 45-60 minutes, or until it's heated through and the cheese is melted and bubbly. Remove the foil during the last 10-15 minutes of baking to allow the top to crisp up.
For individual portions, cut the cooled pasta bake into serving-sized squares and wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. Place the wrapped portions in a freezer-safe container or bag. To reheat, unwrap the desired number of portions and place them in a baking dish. Cover with foil and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 20-30 minutes, or until heated through.

How To Reheat Leftover Turkey and Cheese Pasta Bake

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the leftover turkey and cheese pasta bake in an oven-safe dish and cover it with aluminum foil. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. Remove the foil for the last 5 minutes to crisp up the top layer of breadcrumbs and cheese.
For a quicker option, use the microwave. Place a single serving of the pasta bake on a microwave-safe plate and heat it on high power for 1-2 minutes, or until heated through. Stir the pasta halfway through the reheating process to ensure even heating. Keep in mind that the microwave may cause the breadcrumbs to become soggy.
If you have a toaster oven, you can use it to reheat smaller portions of the turkey and cheese pasta bake. Preheat the toaster oven to 350°F (175°C) and place a serving of the pasta bake on a toaster oven-safe dish. Heat for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through and the top is crispy.
For a stovetop method, place a single serving of the pasta bake in a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Add a splash of milk or chicken broth to help keep the pasta moist. Cover the skillet and heat for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until heated through. This method works well for reviving the creamy texture of the dish.
If you have an air fryer, you can use it to reheat the turkey and cheese pasta bake and achieve a crispy top layer. Preheat the air fryer to 350°F (175°C) and place a serving of the pasta bake in the air fryer basket. Cook for 5-7 minutes, or until heated through and the top is crispy.

Interesting Trivia About Turkey and Cheese Pasta Bake

The turkey and cheese pasta bake recipe is a delicious and hearty dish that combines the flavors of bacon, turkey, and cheese with the creaminess of the soup and the crunch of the breadcrumbs. This recipe is a great way to use up leftover turkey and is perfect for a cozy family dinner. It's also a versatile dish that can be customized with different types of cheese or vegetables. Enjoy this comforting meal on a chilly evening!

Is Making Turkey and Cheese Pasta Bake at Home Cost-Effective?

The cost-effectiveness of this turkey and cheese pasta bake recipe largely depends on the availability and prices of the ingredients in the local market. While turkey and cheese can be relatively affordable, factors such as the cost of bacon and specialty items like charter reserve® goldenroast special recipe turkey breast may impact the overall expense. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people would vary, but considering the use of pasta, broccoli, and cream of chicken and mushroom soups, it could be a budget-friendly meal option. The overall verdict rating for this recipe would be 8/10.

Is This Pasta Bake Healthy or Unhealthy?

This turkey and cheese pasta bake recipe, while undeniably delicious, is not particularly healthy. The dish is high in saturated fat and sodium due to the generous amounts of bacon, cream-based soups, and cheese. Additionally, the recipe lacks a significant amount of vegetables, which are essential for a balanced meal.

To make this recipe healthier, consider the following suggestions:

Reduce the amount of bacon or replace it with a leaner protein like turkey bacon or chicken breast
Use low-fat milk and reduced-sodium, low-fat cream soups to decrease the overall fat and sodium content
Increase the amount of broccoli or add other vegetables like carrots, bell peppers, or spinach to boost the nutritional value
Opt for whole wheat pasta instead of regular penne to increase the fiber content
Decrease the amount of cheese used and choose low-fat varieties to reduce the saturated fat content
Use olive oil instead of butter for the breadcrumb topping to incorporate healthier fats

By making these adjustments, you can transform this comforting pasta bake into a more balanced and nutritious meal without sacrificing flavor. Remember, moderation is key, and enjoying a less-than-healthy dish occasionally is perfectly fine as part of a well-rounded diet.

Editor's Opinion on This Delightful Pasta Bake

This turkey and cheese pasta bake recipe is a delightful combination of flavors and textures. The use of bacon adds a smoky richness, while the combination of cream of chicken and mushroom soups creates a luscious sauce. The addition of Charter Reserve® GoldenRoast Special Recipe Turkey Breast brings a savory element, and the broccoli adds a pop of color and freshness. The dish is well-balanced and comforting, making it a perfect option for a family dinner or a gathering with friends. The crispy panko breadcrumb topping adds a delightful crunch, making each bite a satisfying experience. Overall, this recipe is a winner!

Enhance Your Turkey & Cheese Pasta Bake Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Create a creamy and flavorful side dish by adding roasted garlic to your mashed potatoes. The roasted garlic adds a delicious depth of flavor to this classic side.

Honey Glazed Carrots: Elevate your meal with these sweet and tender honey glazed carrots. The natural sweetness of the carrots combined with the sticky honey glaze makes for a delightful side dish.

Grilled Asparagus with Lemon Zest: Add a touch of brightness to your meal with this simple yet elegant side dish. The charred asparagus paired with the zesty lemon flavor creates a refreshing and vibrant addition to your plate.

Similar Recipes to Try If You Love This Pasta Bake

Creamy Chicken Alfredo: This creamy and indulgent pasta dish is perfect for a cozy night in. The combination of tender chicken, rich alfredo sauce, and al dente pasta will leave you wanting more.

Grilled Vegetable Skewers: These colorful and flavorful vegetable skewers are perfect for a summer barbecue. The combination of marinated veggies and a smoky grill flavor will have everyone coming back for seconds.

Berry Cobbler: This sweet and fruity dessert is the perfect way to showcase seasonal berries. The warm, bubbling cobbler topped with a buttery crust is best served with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.

Appetizers and Desserts to Complement Your Pasta Bake

Appetizers:

Savory Stuffed Mushrooms: Start your meal with a burst of flavor by serving up these savory stuffed mushrooms. The combination of earthy mushrooms, savory sausage, and creamy cheese will leave your guests wanting more.

Crispy Zucchini Fritters: These crispy zucchini fritters are the perfect way to kick off your meal. The light and crispy texture of the fritters paired with the zesty dipping sauce will have your guests coming back for seconds.

Desserts:

Chocolate Lava Cake: Indulge in a decadent, rich chocolate lava cake that oozes with molten chocolate when you dig into it. Pair it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for the perfect balance of sweetness and richness.

Strawberry Cheesecake: Create a luscious and creamy strawberry cheesecake with a buttery graham cracker crust. Top it with fresh strawberries and a drizzle of strawberry sauce for a burst of fruity flavor in every bite.

Why trust this Turkey & Cheese Pasta Bake Recipe:

This recipe guarantees a delectable meal, as it features premium charter reserve® goldenroast special recipe turkey breast and a blend of colby jack cheese and parmesan cheese for a rich, savory flavor. The addition of bacon and fresh thyme infuses the dish with a delightful aroma and depth of taste. The use of cream of chicken soup and cream of mushroom soup ensures a creamy, luscious texture, while the frozen broccoli adds a nutritious element. With these high-quality ingredients and a meticulous cooking process, this recipe is a trustworthy choice for a satisfying pasta bake experience.

Have you tried this Turkey & Cheese Pasta Bake Recipe? Share your experience and any tweaks you made in the Recipe Sharing forum!

FAQ:

What can I use as a substitute for bacon in this recipe?

You can substitute bacon with diced ham, cooked sausage, or even smoked turkey slices for a similar savory flavor.

Can I use a different type of pasta for this recipe?

Yes, you can use any type of pasta you prefer, such as macaroni, rigatoni, or fusilli. Just adjust the cooking time according to the pasta's package instructions.

Is it possible to make this recipe vegetarian?

Absolutely! You can omit the bacon and turkey, and use vegetable broth instead of chicken soup to make a delicious vegetarian version of this pasta bake.

Can I prepare this dish ahead of time and bake it later?

Yes, you can assemble the pasta bake ahead of time, cover it tightly with plastic wrap, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if the dish is cold from the fridge.

How can I make this recipe gluten-free?

To make this recipe gluten-free, simply use gluten-free pasta and ensure that the cream of chicken and cream of mushroom soups are certified gluten-free. Additionally, you can use gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers for the topping.