Turkey Divan is a tasty and creamy dish made with tender turkey, broccoli, and a rich sauce. It’s topped with cheese and baked until golden brown—yum!
This meal is great for using up leftover turkey, and it turns dinner into a cozy feast. Trust me, your family will love digging into this comforting casserole!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cooked Turkey: You can use leftover turkey from a holiday meal or simply grab a rotisserie chicken from the store for convenience. Chicken or even tofu works well if you’re looking for a vegetarian option.
Broccoli: Fresh broccoli is great, but frozen broccoli florets work just as well. If broccoli isn’t your favorite, you could substitute with green beans, cauliflower, or spinach for added color and nutrition.
Cheddar and Mozzarella: While I love the combination of cheddar and mozzarella for their flavor and meltability, you can opt for any cheese you like. Pepper Jack adds a nice kick, or you can use a blend of Italian cheeses.
Butter and Flour: These make the base of the sauce. If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can use olive oil for the butter, and if you need a gluten-free option, substitute regular flour with a gluten-free blend.
How Do I Make a Creamy Sauce Without Clumps?
The sauce is the heart of Turkey Divan, and getting it smooth is key. Here’s how to avoid clumps:
- Start by melting the butter over medium heat, being careful not to burn it.
- Add the flour and stir constantly for 1-2 minutes. This cooks it and prepares it for mixing with the milk.
- When you add the milk, do it gradually. This helps to keep the mixture smooth. Whisk continuously as you pour the milk in.
- If the sauce thickens too quickly, lower the heat. A gentle simmer is what you want.
Following these steps will give you a velvety sauce that makes this dish so enjoyable!
Turkey Divan
Ingredients:
- 3 cups cooked turkey, diced or shredded
- 2 cups broccoli florets, steamed until tender
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese, divided
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
- 1/4 cup butter
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 cups milk
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise or sour cream (optional for extra creaminess)
- 1 tbsp dried parsley or a sprinkle of herbs (optional)
Time Estimate:
This dish takes about 10 minutes of prep time and 30 minutes of cooking time, making it ready to enjoy in about 40 minutes total! It’s perfect for a cozy dinner any night of the week.
Instructions:
1. Preheat The Oven:
First, turn your oven on to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish lightly to prevent sticking.
2. Make the Sauce:
In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Add in the flour and stir constantly for about 1-2 minutes to create a roux. Gradually whisk in the milk, stirring continuously until the sauce thickens and starts to bubble gently.
3. Flavor the Sauce:
Remove the sauce from the heat. Stir in the Dijon mustard, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. If you like, you can mix in mayonnaise or sour cream for a creamier texture.
4. Add Cheese:
Stir in half of your shredded cheddar and mozzarella into the sauce until everything is well combined and cheesy!
5. Combine Turkey and Broccoli:
In your prepared baking dish, combine the cooked turkey and steamed broccoli. Pour the cheese sauce over the top and give it a gentle stir to mix everything together.
6. Top with Cheese:
Sprinkle the remaining cheddar and mozzarella cheese evenly over the top of the turkey and broccoli mixture. If desired, add some dried parsley or herbs for a pop of color.
7. Bake:
Place the baking dish in your preheated oven and bake uncovered for about 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is nicely bubbly and golden brown.
8. Serve:
Once out of the oven, let your Turkey Divan cool for a few minutes before serving warm. It’s wonderful alongside mashed potatoes or a fresh salad!
Enjoy your delicious and comforting Turkey Divan!
Can I Use Fresh Turkey Instead of Cooked Turkey?
Absolutely! If you’re using fresh turkey, poach or roast it first until fully cooked. Dice or shred the turkey before adding it to the casserole, ensuring it’s tender and easy to eat.
What Can I Substitute for Broccoli?
If broccoli isn’t your favorite or if you don’t have it on hand, feel free to use green beans, cauliflower, or even spinach. Just make sure any substitute is cooked or steamed until tender before mixing it into the dish.
Can I Make This Dish in Advance?
Yes! You can assemble Turkey Divan ahead of time, cover it, and refrigerate for up to a day before baking. Just extend the baking time by a few minutes if you take it directly from the fridge to the oven.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover Turkey Divan in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in the microwave or in the oven until heated through. If it looks a bit dry, adding a splash of milk can help refresh the creamy texture!