In the realm of weeknight dinners, finding a dish that satisfies both picky eaters and busy schedules can feel like striking gold. For our family, that culinary gold has been repeatedly found in the humble yet utterly satisfying Ground Turkey and Biscuit Casserole. Initially, I stumbled upon this recipe while searching for a healthier alternative to traditional beef casseroles. Skeptical at first, I wasn’t sure if ground turkey could deliver the same comforting depth of flavor. However, from the moment the aroma of savory turkey and creamy sauce began to waft through the kitchen, my doubts vanished.

The beauty of this casserole lies in its simplicity and adaptability. It’s the kind of recipe that welcomes customization based on what you have on hand, making it a true pantry staple. The creamy base, studded with tender ground turkey and your favorite vegetables, is perfectly complemented by the light and fluffy biscuit topping. It’s a textural masterpiece, offering a delightful contrast between the soft, savory filling and the golden-brown, slightly crisp biscuits.

What truly sealed the deal for my family was the sheer enjoyment it brought to the dinner table. Even my notoriously picky kids, who are often suspicious of anything remotely resembling a vegetable, devoured this casserole with gusto. The biscuits, in particular, were a major hit, and the savory filling disappeared just as quickly. Clean plates all around are always a sign of a successful meal, and this Ground Turkey and Biscuit Casserole has consistently delivered that outcome. It’s become a regular in our rotation, a comforting and reliable dish that we all look forward to. If you’re searching for an easy, flavorful, and family-friendly meal, look no further. This Ground Turkey and Biscuit Casserole is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that will quickly become a cherished recipe in your own home.

Ingredients: What You’ll Need for Ground Turkey and Biscuit Casserole

This recipe utilizes simple, readily available ingredients, making it a convenient choice for busy weeknights. Here’s a detailed list of everything you’ll need to create this comforting casserole:

Ground Turkey: 1 pound (93% lean or leaner recommended for optimal flavor and less grease)
Yellow Onion: 1 medium, diced
Garlic: 2 cloves, minced
Cream of Mushroom Soup: 1 can (10.75 ounces), condensed
Milk: ¾ cup (2% or whole milk for a richer casserole)
Mixed Vegetables: 1 cup, frozen or canned (peas, carrots, corn, green beans – your choice or a combination)
Shredded Cheddar Cheese: 1 cup, divided (sharp or mild, depending on preference)
Dried Thyme: 1 teaspoon
Dried Rosemary: ½ teaspoon
Salt: ½ teaspoon (or to taste)
Black Pepper: ¼ teaspoon (or to taste)
Refrigerated Biscuit Dough: 1 can (10-12 ounces), such as Pillsbury Grands! or similar large biscuits
Butter: 2 tablespoons, melted (for brushing biscuits, optional but recommended for golden color and flavor)
Fresh Parsley: 2 tablespoons, chopped (for garnish, optional)

Ingredient Notes and Substitutions:

Ground Turkey: While 93% lean is recommended for a balance of flavor and leanness, you can use leaner ground turkey (99% lean) to further reduce fat content. If using a fattier ground turkey, be sure to drain off any excess grease after browning. Ground beef or ground chicken can be substituted if preferred, though the flavor profile will slightly change.
Yellow Onion: White or sweet onions can also be used. For a milder flavor, you can use shallots instead.
Garlic: Fresh garlic is best for flavor, but ½ teaspoon of garlic powder can be used as a substitute if needed.
Cream of Mushroom Soup: Cream of chicken, cream of celery, or cream of cheddar soup can be used as alternatives. For a healthier option, look for reduced-sodium or lower-fat versions of condensed soup. You can also make a homemade cream sauce from scratch using butter, flour, milk, and seasonings, though this will add to the preparation time.
Milk: Any type of milk will work, including non-dairy alternatives like almond milk or oat milk. For a richer, creamier casserole, you can use half-and-half or heavy cream, but this will increase the fat content.
Mixed Vegetables: Feel free to customize the vegetables to your liking. Fresh vegetables like broccoli florets, cauliflower florets, diced carrots, or bell peppers can be used, but they may require pre-cooking (steaming or sautéing) before being added to the casserole to ensure they are tender. Canned vegetables should be drained before use. Frozen vegetables can be added directly to the casserole, no need to thaw.
Shredded Cheddar Cheese: Monterey Jack, Colby, mozzarella, or a blend of cheeses can be used instead of cheddar. Experiment with different cheese combinations to find your favorite flavor profile. For a sharper flavor, use sharp cheddar or pepper jack.
Dried Thyme and Rosemary: Italian seasoning, poultry seasoning, or a combination of other dried herbs like oregano, sage, or marjoram can be used instead. Fresh herbs can also be used, but you’ll typically need to use about three times the amount of fresh herbs compared to dried herbs.
Refrigerated Biscuit Dough: Homemade biscuit dough can be used for a more from-scratch approach. You can also use other types of biscuit dough, such as drop biscuits or even crescent roll dough for a different texture. For a gluten-free option, use gluten-free biscuit dough.
Butter (for brushing biscuits): Olive oil or melted margarine can be used as substitutes. You can also skip brushing the biscuits altogether, but they may not brown as evenly or have the same buttery flavor.
Fresh Parsley (for garnish): Chopped chives, green onions, or other fresh herbs can be used for garnish. If you don’t have fresh herbs, you can omit the garnish altogether.

Instructions: Step-by-Step Guide to Making Ground Turkey and Biscuit Casserole

Follow these easy-to-understand instructions to create your delicious Ground Turkey and Biscuit Casserole:

Step 1: Preheat Oven and Prepare Baking Dish

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with cooking spray or butter. This will prevent the casserole from sticking and make cleanup easier.

Step 2: Brown the Ground Turkey and Sauté Aromatics

Place a large skillet over medium-high heat.
Add the ground turkey to the skillet and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until it is browned and no longer pink. This usually takes about 5-7 minutes.
Drain off any excess grease from the skillet. This is especially important if you are using ground turkey with a higher fat content.
Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet with the cooked ground turkey.
Sauté the onion and garlic for 3-5 minutes, or until the onion is softened and translucent and the garlic is fragrant. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and burning.

Step 3: Combine Filling Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the cooked ground turkey and onion mixture, cream of mushroom soup, milk, mixed vegetables, ¾ cup of the shredded cheddar cheese, dried thyme, dried rosemary, salt, and black pepper.
Stir all ingredients together until well combined and evenly distributed. Ensure the soup and milk are thoroughly incorporated to create a creamy sauce.

Step 4: Assemble the Casserole

Pour the ground turkey mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly across the bottom.
Arrange the refrigerated biscuits evenly over the top of the turkey mixture. You can place them whole or cut them in half for easier spreading and more even coverage. Slightly overlapping the biscuits is fine.

Step 5: Brush Biscuits with Butter and Bake

In a small bowl, melt the butter in the microwave or on the stovetop.
Brush the tops of the biscuits with the melted butter. This will give them a golden-brown color and enhance their flavor.
Sprinkle the remaining ¼ cup of shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the biscuits.

Step 6: Bake the Casserole

Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the biscuits are golden brown and cooked through, and the filling is bubbly and heated through.
To ensure the biscuits are fully cooked, you can insert a toothpick into the center of a biscuit. It should come out clean.

Step 7: Rest and Garnish (Optional)

Remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. This allows the filling to slightly thicken and the biscuits to cool down a bit.
Garnish with fresh chopped parsley, if desired, for a pop of color and fresh flavor.

Step 8: Serve and Enjoy!

Serve the Ground Turkey and Biscuit Casserole hot and enjoy! It’s delicious on its own or with your favorite side dishes.

Nutrition Facts: Ground Turkey and Biscuit Casserole (Estimated)

Please note that the nutritional information provided below is an estimate and can vary depending on the specific ingredients used, portion sizes, and brands. This information is based on approximate values and should be used as a general guideline.

Servings: Approximately 6-8 servings

Per Serving (Estimated, based on 8 servings):

Calories: 350-450 calories
Protein: 20-25 grams
Fat: 15-25 grams
- Saturated Fat: 7-12 grams
Cholesterol: 70-90 mg
Sodium: 600-800 mg (can vary greatly depending on soup and cheese)
Carbohydrates: 30-40 grams
- Fiber: 2-4 grams
- Sugar: 5-8 grams

Key Nutritional Considerations:

Protein-Rich: Ground turkey is a good source of lean protein, contributing to muscle building and satiety.
Moderate Fat: The fat content comes from the ground turkey, cheese, biscuits, and soup. Using leaner ground turkey and reduced-fat cheese and soup can help lower the fat content.
Carbohydrates from Biscuits and Vegetables: The biscuits provide carbohydrates for energy. The vegetables contribute fiber and some vitamins and minerals.
Sodium Content: Condensed soup and cheese can be high in sodium. Choosing reduced-sodium options for these ingredients can significantly lower the sodium content of the casserole.
Vitamins and Minerals: The mixed vegetables contribute vitamins and minerals, although the specific nutrients will depend on the vegetable blend used.

For a Healthier Casserole:

Use 99% lean ground turkey.
Choose reduced-fat or fat-free cream of mushroom soup.
Use reduced-fat cheddar cheese or a lower-fat cheese alternative.
Incorporate more vegetables, such as adding extra frozen vegetables or including fresh vegetables like chopped broccoli or spinach.
Consider using whole wheat biscuit dough or making your own biscuits with whole wheat flour.
Serve smaller portions to manage calorie intake.

Preparation Time: From Prep to Plate

This Ground Turkey and Biscuit Casserole is designed for efficiency, making it perfect for busy weeknights. Here’s a breakdown of the estimated time commitment:

Prep Time: 20-25 minutes
- This includes dicing the onion, mincing the garlic, browning the ground turkey, sautéing the aromatics, combining the filling ingredients, and assembling the casserole in the baking dish.
Cook Time: 20-25 minutes
- This is the time the casserole spends baking in the oven until the biscuits are golden brown and the filling is bubbly.
Total Time: 40-50 minutes

Tips to Speed Up Preparation:

Use pre-diced onions and minced garlic: This can save you a few minutes of prep time. You can often find these in the produce section of your grocery store.
Utilize frozen vegetables: Frozen vegetables are pre-cut and ready to use, eliminating the need for chopping.
Prepare ingredients in advance: You can dice the onion and mince the garlic earlier in the day or even the day before and store them in the refrigerator. You can also cook the ground turkey ahead of time and refrigerate it until ready to assemble the casserole.
Assemble the casserole ahead of time: You can assemble the entire casserole (up to the point of baking) a few hours in advance and store it, covered, in the refrigerator. When ready to bake, add about 5-10 minutes to the baking time to ensure it is heated through.

How to Serve Ground Turkey and Biscuit Casserole: Delicious Accompaniments

Ground Turkey and Biscuit Casserole is a hearty and complete meal on its own, but pairing it with complementary side dishes can elevate your dining experience and create a well-rounded menu. Here are some serving suggestions:

Salads:

Simple Green Salad: A light and refreshing green salad with a vinaigrette dressing provides a crisp contrast to the richness of the casserole.
Caesar Salad: A classic Caesar salad with romaine lettuce, croutons, Parmesan cheese, and Caesar dressing offers a creamy and savory counterpoint.
Spinach Salad with Berries and Goat Cheese: The sweetness of berries and the tang of goat cheese in a spinach salad create a delightful flavor combination that complements the savory casserole.
Cucumber and Tomato Salad: A refreshing and hydrating cucumber and tomato salad with a light lemon or herb dressing provides a cooling element.

Vegetables:

Steamed or Roasted Broccoli: Simple steamed or roasted broccoli with a drizzle of olive oil and lemon juice is a healthy and versatile side.
Roasted Asparagus: Tender roasted asparagus spears with garlic and Parmesan cheese add a touch of elegance.
Green Beans Almondine: Green beans sautéed with butter and toasted almonds offer a classic and flavorful vegetable side.
Carrot and Raisin Salad: A sweet and crunchy carrot and raisin salad provides a different textural and flavor profile.
Mashed Sweet Potatoes: Creamy mashed sweet potatoes add a touch of sweetness and a boost of nutrients.

Breads and Grains:

Garlic Bread: Classic garlic bread or garlic knots are always a welcome addition to a casserole meal.
Dinner Rolls: Soft and fluffy dinner rolls are perfect for soaking up the creamy sauce of the casserole.
Cornbread: Slightly sweet cornbread complements the savory flavors of the casserole beautifully.
Quinoa or Rice: For a heartier meal, serve the casserole over a bed of cooked quinoa or rice.

Toppings and Garnishes:

Fresh Herbs: Chopped parsley, chives, or green onions add a fresh and vibrant garnish.
Sour Cream or Greek Yogurt: A dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt adds a cool and tangy element.
Hot Sauce: For those who like a little heat, a dash of hot sauce can kick up the flavor.
Crumbled Bacon: Crispy crumbled bacon adds a smoky and savory topping.
Extra Shredded Cheese: A sprinkle of extra shredded cheddar or your favorite cheese adds extra cheesy goodness.

Beverage Pairings:

Milk: A classic and comforting beverage to pair with casserole.
Iced Tea: Refreshing iced tea, sweetened or unsweetened, is a great choice.
Lemonade: Tart lemonade provides a refreshing contrast to the richness of the casserole.
Light-bodied Red Wine: A light-bodied red wine like Pinot Noir or Beaujolais can complement the savory flavors.
Crisp White Wine: A crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio can also pair well.

Additional Tips for Perfect Ground Turkey and Biscuit Casserole

Elevate your Ground Turkey and Biscuit Casserole from good to great with these helpful tips:

Don’t Overcook the Ground Turkey: Overcooked ground turkey can become dry and tough. Cook it just until it’s browned and no longer pink. It will continue to cook in the casserole.
Sauté the Aromatics Properly: Sautéing the onion and garlic until softened and fragrant is crucial for developing flavor. Don’t rush this step; it builds the foundation of the casserole’s taste.
Season Generously: Don’t be shy with seasoning! Taste the filling mixture before assembling the casserole and adjust salt, pepper, and herbs as needed. Seasoning enhances all the flavors and prevents a bland casserole.
Customize the Vegetables: Get creative with your vegetable choices! Add different frozen or fresh vegetables based on your preferences and what you have on hand. Roasted vegetables like sweet potatoes or butternut squash can also add a delicious twist.
Ensure Biscuits are Cooked Through: The biggest challenge with biscuit casseroles is ensuring the biscuits are cooked through without over-browning. Bake until golden brown and cooked through. If the biscuits are browning too quickly, you can lightly tent the baking dish with foil for the last few minutes of baking.

FAQ: Your Questions Answered About Ground Turkey and Biscuit Casserole

Here are answers to some common questions you might have about making Ground Turkey and Biscuit Casserole:

Q1: Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

A: Yes, you can assemble the casserole ahead of time. Prepare the filling and assemble the casserole in the baking dish, but do not bake it. Cover tightly and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, preheat the oven as directed and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes to ensure it is heated through, especially if it was refrigerated.

Q2: Can I freeze Ground Turkey and Biscuit Casserole?

A: Yes, you can freeze this casserole, but it’s best to freeze it before baking. Assemble the casserole in a freezer-safe dish, wrap tightly with plastic wrap and then foil, and freeze for up to 2-3 months. To bake from frozen, thaw in the refrigerator overnight, or bake directly from frozen (covered with foil for the first half of the baking time) at 350°F (175°C), adding approximately 30-40 minutes to the baking time, or until heated through and biscuits are cooked. The biscuit texture may be slightly altered after freezing and thawing.

Q3: Can I use homemade biscuits instead of refrigerated biscuit dough?

A: Absolutely! Homemade biscuits will add an even more delicious touch to this casserole. Use your favorite biscuit recipe, and be sure to bake them until they are just slightly underdone, as they will finish baking in the casserole. You can also use drop biscuits for easier preparation.

Q4: What can I do if I don’t have cream of mushroom soup?

A: You can substitute cream of chicken soup, cream of celery soup, or cream of cheddar soup. You can also make a homemade cream sauce from scratch using butter, flour, milk, and seasonings. A simple white sauce (béchamel) seasoned with herbs and spices can work well.

Q5: How can I make this casserole healthier?

A: To make a healthier Ground Turkey and Biscuit Casserole:
* Use 99% lean ground turkey.
* Choose reduced-fat or fat-free cream of mushroom soup.
* Use reduced-fat cheddar cheese.
* Load up on vegetables! Add extra frozen vegetables or incorporate fresh vegetables like chopped broccoli, spinach, or bell peppers.
* Consider using whole wheat biscuit dough or making your own biscuits with whole wheat flour.
* Control portion sizes when serving.

Enjoy creating and savoring your delicious and comforting Ground Turkey and Biscuit Casserole!