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Teriyaki-Crusted Turkey Casserole

teriyaki-crusted turkey casserole - featured image
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A quick and easy casserole featuring ground turkey with a crispy, caramelized teriyaki glaze crust, combined with rice, vegetables, and a creamy cheese base for a comforting yet light dinner.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound ground turkey (lean)
  • 1/2 cup teriyaki sauce (4 fl oz)
  • 2 cups cooked rice (white, brown, or jasmine)
  • 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, corn)
  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup shredded cheese (mozzarella or cheddar)
  • 1/2 cup sour cream (can substitute Greek yogurt)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 2 green onions, sliced (optional for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Heat 2 tablespoons olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until translucent and fragrant.
  3. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds, being careful not to burn it.
  4. Add the ground turkey to the skillet. Break it apart and cook for 6-8 minutes until no longer pink and cooked through.
  5. Pour in half of the teriyaki sauce (1/4 cup) and stir well to coat the turkey. Let it simmer for 2 minutes to thicken slightly. Add a splash of water if the pan sticks.
  6. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked rice, frozen mixed vegetables, sour cream, and shredded cheese. Stir until well mixed.
  7. Add the turkey mixture to the rice bowl. Season with salt and pepper to taste, then fold everything together gently.
  8. Transfer the mixture to a greased 9×13-inch casserole dish and spread evenly.
  9. Drizzle the remaining teriyaki sauce (1/4 cup) over the top to form the crispy crust.
  10. Bake uncovered for 20-25 minutes until bubbling and golden brown on top. If needed, broil for 2-3 minutes at the end to crisp the crust, watching carefully to avoid burning.
  11. Remove from oven and let rest for 5 minutes before serving.
  12. Garnish with sliced green onions if desired.

Notes

Use a good-quality teriyaki sauce for best caramelization. Avoid overcooking turkey to keep it moist. For extra crunch, sprinkle panko breadcrumbs mixed with melted butter on top before baking or broil for last 2-3 minutes. Let casserole rest after baking for easier serving. Can substitute turkey with tofu or tempeh for vegetarian version, and rice with cauliflower rice for low-carb adaptation.

Nutrition

Keywords: teriyaki, turkey casserole, quick dinner, easy casserole, crispy crust, comfort food, weeknight meal

Find it online: https://avabake.com/teriyaki-crusted-turkey-casserole-recipe-easy-crispy-golden-crust-dinner-idea/