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In the world of comfort food, casseroles hold a special place, combining ease of preparation with the heartwarming flavors that remind us of home. Among these, the Cheesy Cauliflower & Turkey Casserole stands out as a delightful fusion of health and indulgence. This dish masterfully marries the creamy, cheesy goodness that we crave with nutritious ingredients, making it an appealing option for families looking for balanced meals without sacrificing taste.

Cheesy Cauliflower & Turkey Casserole

Discover the perfect blend of comfort and nutrition with this Cheesy Cauliflower & Turkey Casserole. This easy recipe combines lean ground turkey, nutrient-rich cauliflower, and creamy cheddar cheese for a satisfying meal that the whole family will love. Ideal for dinner or meal prep, it transforms simple ingredients into a hearty dish that’s both delicious and wholesome. Enjoy leftovers throughout the week with this versatile and flavorful casserole that’s sure to become a kitchen staple!
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Ingredients
  

1 medium head of cauliflower, cut into bite-sized florets

1 lb ground turkey, preferably lean

1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese, divided

1 cup cream of mushroom soup

1/2 cup milk (can use whole milk or a dairy alternative)

1 cup frozen peas (or fresh if in season)

1 small onion, finely diced

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 tsp dried thyme

1/2 tsp paprika

Salt and pepper, to taste

1 cup panko breadcrumbs

2 tbsp olive oil, plus extra for greasing

Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions
 

Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C) to ensure it’s at the right temperature when the casserole is ready to bake.

    Prepare the Cauliflower: In a large pot, bring salted water to a rolling boil. Carefully add the cauliflower florets and cook them for about 5 minutes, or until they are slightly tender but still crisp. Drain the cauliflower and set it aside to cool.

      Cook the Turkey: Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once sizzling, add the diced onion and sauté for approximately 3-4 minutes until it turns translucent. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, until fragrant. Then, incorporate the ground turkey, along with thyme, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook, stirring occasionally, for about 7-10 minutes until the turkey is thoroughly browned and cooked through.

        Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the sautéed turkey mixture with the cream of mushroom soup, milk, frozen peas, and half of the shredded cheddar cheese. Stir the mixture until everything is evenly incorporated. Carefully fold in the cauliflower florets, ensuring they are well coated.

          Transfer to Baking Dish: Grease a 9x13 inch casserole dish with a little olive oil. Pour the turkey-cauliflower mixture into the dish, spreading it out evenly.

            Top with Cheese and Breadcrumbs: Sprinkle the remaining shredded cheddar cheese across the top of the casserole. In a small bowl, combine the panko breadcrumbs with a drizzle of olive oil and a pinch of salt. Mix well and then evenly sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture over the cheese layer.

              Bake: Cover the casserole with aluminum foil to prevent over-browning, and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes. After 25 minutes, remove the foil and continue to bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the cheese is bubbly.

                Serve: Once the casserole is cooked, remove it from the oven and allow it to cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for added flavor and a burst of color.

                  Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 15 mins | 60 mins | 6 servings

                    - Serving Suggestion: Pair this comforting casserole with a fresh green salad for a complete meal. Enjoy every cheesy, savory bite!