This dish is my special creation – everyone always asks for more!

This oven-baked cheesy turkey and broccoli casserole is a staple in my household, especially during the busy workweek. It's a comforting dish that brings together tender turkey, fresh broccoli, and gooey cheese, all topped with a crispy breadcrumb crust. I first stumbled upon this recipe when I was looking for ways to use leftover turkey after Thanksgiving, and it quickly became a family favorite. It's perfect for those nights when you want something hearty and satisfying without spending hours in the kitchen.

This casserole pairs beautifully with a simple side salad or some crusty bread to soak up all the cheesy goodness. For a more complete meal, consider serving it alongside roasted potatoes or a light vegetable medley. A glass of white wine or a refreshing iced tea would complement the flavors nicely.

Servings: 6

2 cups cooked turkey, shredded
3 cups broccoli florets, steamed
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
1 cup milk
2 tablespoons butter
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon onion powder
Salt and pepper to taste
1 cup breadcrumbs
2 tablespoons olive oil

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the flour and cook for about 1 minute, until it forms a paste.

Gradually whisk in the milk, stirring constantly until the mixture thickens. Add the garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.

Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in 1 1/2 cups of the shredded cheddar cheese until melted and smooth.

In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded turkey, steamed broccoli, and cheese sauce. Mix until everything is evenly coated.

Transfer the mixture to a rectangular white ceramic baking dish.

In a small bowl, combine the breadcrumbs and olive oil. Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture evenly over the casserole.

Top with the remaining 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar cheese.

Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the cheese is bubbly.

Allow to cool for a few minutes before serving.

For a different flavor profile, try using a mix of cheeses such as mozzarella and parmesan. You can also add a bit of spice by incorporating diced jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper into the cheese sauce. If you're looking to make this dish even heartier, consider adding cooked rice or pasta to the mix. For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free breadcrumbs and flour.