Ingredients
Base
- 3 cups cooked turkey, shredded or diced
- 2 medium apples, thinly sliced
- 1 small onion, sliced
- 1 cup celery, sliced
- 2 cups sharp cheddar, shredded
- 1 cup bread cubes or stuffing mix (optional but awesome for texture)
- 2 tbsp butter
Sauce
- 1 1/4 cups milk or half-and-half
- 2 tbsp flour
- 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tsp poultry seasoning
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- Salt & pepper to taste
Topping
- 1/2-1 cup cheddar
- 1/2 cup crushed crackers, panko, or leftover stuffing
- 1-2 tbsp melted butter
Instructions
1. Sauté the Veg
Start with a skillet over medium heat and melt the butter. Toss in the onion and celery and cook for about 5–7 minutes, until softened and just starting to turn golden.
This step builds flavor—don’t rush it.
2. Add the Apples
Stir in the sliced apples and cook another 3–4 minutes. You want them softened but not mushy. Think tender with a bit of bite.
3. Build the Sauce
Sprinkle the flour into the pan and stir until everything is coated.
Slowly whisk in the milk, then add:
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Dijon mustard
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poultry seasoning
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garlic powder
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salt and pepper
Simmer about 2 minutes, just until the sauce thickens slightly.
4. Assemble the Bake
Grease a 9×13 casserole dish, then add:
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turkey
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apple/veg mixture
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shredded cheddar
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bread cubes or stuffing mix (if using)
Pour the sauce over everything and gently fold it together.
5. Top It Like You Mean It
Mix together the topping ingredients (cheddar + crumbs + melted butter), then sprinkle generously over the casserole.
This is where the magic crunch happens.
6. Bake
Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 25–30 minutes, until bubbly and golden brown.
If you want the top extra crispy, broil for the last 1–2 minutes—but watch it like a hawk.
- Cuisine: entrees, turkey, NS loyal, recipes