As the holiday season approaches, it’s time to revisit classic comfort food that never goes out of style. One such dish that embodies warmth and coziness is Turkey Ala King, a rich and creamy concoction that combines tender turkey with a medley of savory ingredients. In this article, we’ll explore 20 creative and easy-to-make variations of this beloved recipe, each with its own twist to elevate your holiday meal game.
Whether you’re looking for a classic take on the original or something new and adventurous, our collection of Turkey Ala King recipes has got you covered. From slow cooker hacks to instant pot shortcuts, we’ve rounded up the best ideas to make this dish a staple in your household. So, let’s dive into the creamy goodness and get cooking!
Classic Turkey Ala King with Puff Pastry
Classic Turkey Ala King with Puff Pastry Recipe
This comforting casserole combines tender turkey, rich mushroom gravy, and flaky puff pastry for a satisfying meal that’s sure to please. Perfect for special occasions or cozy weeknights.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cooked turkey breast or thighs, diced
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 package puff pastry, thawed
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, sauté mushrooms, onion, and garlic in butter until tender.
3. Add flour, chicken broth, heavy cream, thyme, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer; cook for 5 minutes or until thickened.
4. Stir in cooked turkey.
5. Roll out puff pastry to fit a 9×13-inch baking dish. Place in the dish.
6. Pour turkey mixture over pastry.
7. Fold edges of pastry up over filling, pressing gently to seal.
8. Brush with beaten egg and bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Slow Cooker Turkey Ala King
This classic comfort food dish is a twist on the traditional ala king recipe, using tender turkey breast and rich sauce to create a satisfying meal. Perfect for a cold winter evening or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless turkey breast
– 1 can (10.5 oz) of cream of mushroom soup
– 1/2 cup of chicken broth
– 1/4 cup of heavy cream
– 1 tsp of dried thyme
– 1/2 tsp of paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8 oz mushrooms, sliced
Instructions:
1. Season the turkey breast with salt, pepper, thyme, and paprika.
2. Place the turkey in the slow cooker and add the cream of mushroom soup, chicken broth, and heavy cream.
3. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
4. Add the sliced mushrooms during the last hour of cooking.
5. Serve hot over cooked noodles, rice, or with crusty bread.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Easy Turkey Ala King with Mushrooms
Easy Turkey Ala King with Mushrooms: A comforting and flavorful dish that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground turkey
– 1 medium onion, finely chopped
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large skillet, cook the turkey over medium-high heat, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned and cooked through.
2. Add the onion, mushrooms, chicken broth, heavy cream, butter, garlic, paprika, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Stir to combine.
3. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 5-7 minutes or until the sauce has thickened slightly.
4. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Healthy Turkey Ala King with Cauliflower Rice
Enjoy a twist on the classic dish by substituting traditional rice with cauliflower rice and adding lean turkey breast for a nutritious meal that’s both delicious and good for you.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless turkey breast
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake)
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– 1/2 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 head of cauliflower
– 2 tbsp olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Pulse the turkey breast in a food processor until coarsely chopped.
3. In a large skillet, cook the mushrooms and turkey mixture over medium-high heat until browned.
4. Add chicken broth, heavy cream, thyme, paprika, salt, and pepper; stir to combine.
5. Cook cauliflower rice according to package instructions or by pulsing in a food processor until crumbly.
6. Serve turkey ala king with cauliflower rice.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Turkey Ala King Casserole
This classic casserole recipe combines the flavors of turkey, mushrooms, and cream of chicken soup for a satisfying and comforting meal. With its easy-to-follow instructions, you’ll have this delicious dish ready in no time!
Ingredients:
– 1 lb cooked turkey breast or thighs, diced
– 1 cup fresh mushrooms, sliced
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup crushed crackers (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a large skillet, sauté mushrooms, onion, and garlic until tender.
3. Add diced turkey, cream of chicken soup, milk, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir until combined.
4. Pour mixture into a 9×13 inch baking dish.
5. Top with shredded cheddar cheese and crushed crackers (if using).
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Instant Pot Turkey Ala King
Turkey Ala King is a comforting and flavorful dish that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion. This Instant Pot recipe simplifies the cooking process, allowing you to enjoy this classic dish in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless turkey breast or thighs
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 cup mushrooms, sliced
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 2 tbsp tomato paste
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Press the “Saute” button on the Instant Pot and heat the pot until it reads “HOT”.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the sliced mushrooms and cook until they release their moisture and start to brown, about 5 minutes.
5. Add the turkey, chicken broth, heavy cream, tomato paste, and thyme. Stir to combine.
6. Close the lid and set the valve to “SEALING”. Press the “Manual” or “Pressure Cook” button and cook on high pressure for 8-10 minutes.
7. Let the pressure release naturally for 5 minutes before quick-releasing any remaining pressure.
8. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 13-15 minutes
Gluten-Free Turkey Ala King
This creamy, comforting dish is a perfect combination of tender turkey, sautéed mushrooms, and flavorful sauce – all gluten-free! This recipe serves 4-6 people.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless turkey breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 cup mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup gluten-free all-purpose flour
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, heat oil over medium-high. Add turkey; cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
3. Remove turkey from skillet; set aside. Reduce heat to medium. Add mushrooms, onion, and garlic; sauté until tender, about 5 minutes.
4. Sprinkle flour over mushroom mixture; cook for 1 minute. Gradually stir in chicken broth and heavy cream.
5. Return turkey to skillet; simmer until heated through. Season with thyme, salt, and pepper.
6. Serve hot over cooked rice or noodles.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Spicy Turkey Ala King with Jalapeños
This spicy take on the classic turkey ala king recipe adds a bold kick from jalapeños. This dish is perfect for those who like a little heat in their meals.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless turkey breast or thighs
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2-3 jalapeños, sliced
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Melt butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add turkey and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes.
4. Add chicken broth, heavy cream, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
5. Simmer for 10-15 minutes or until turkey is cooked through.
6. Add sliced jalapeños; simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Turkey Ala King over Buttermilk Biscuits
Experience a classic comfort food combination with this simple recipe that combines tender turkey, savory sauce, and flaky buttermilk biscuits.
Ingredients:
For the Turkey Ala King:
– 1 pound cooked turkey, diced
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
For the Buttermilk Biscuits:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 4 teaspoons baking powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup cold butter, cut into small pieces
– 3/4 cup buttermilk
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened.
3. Add diced turkey, heavy cream, paprika, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 5 minutes or until heated through.
4. Meanwhile, prepare biscuits by whisking together flour, baking powder, and salt in a bowl. Cut in cold butter with a pastry blender or fingers until mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
5. Add buttermilk; stir until dough forms. Drop by spoonfuls onto a baking sheet. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until golden brown.
6. Serve turkey mixture over warm biscuits.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Leftover Turkey Ala King Skillet
Transform your leftover turkey into a flavorful and comforting skillet dish, perfect for a post-holiday meal or quick dinner. This recipe is easy to make and requires minimal ingredients.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups leftover roasted turkey, diced
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or thyme for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the turkey, onion, and garlic; cook until the onion is translucent, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the mushrooms and cook until they release their moisture and start to brown, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Sprinkle the flour over the mixture and cook for 1 minute.
5. Gradually add the chicken broth and heavy cream, whisking continuously; bring to a simmer.
6. Reduce heat to low and let simmer for 10-15 minutes or until the sauce has thickened slightly.
7. Season with paprika, salt, and pepper to taste.
8. Serve hot, garnished with parsley or thyme if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Turkey Ala King with Bell Peppers
This recipe adds a pop of color and flavor to the traditional Turkey Ala King by incorporating bell peppers. The result is a hearty, comforting dish perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless turkey breast or thighs
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 2 large bell peppers (any color), sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or thyme for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, sauté the turkey, onion, bell peppers, and garlic in butter until the turkey is cooked through.
3. Add chicken broth, heavy cream, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
4. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and bake for 20-25 minutes or until heated through.
5. Garnish with parsley or thyme. Serve hot over rice or noodles.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Turkey Ala King and Waffles
This recipe combines the savory flavors of Turkey Ala King with the crispy, sweet goodness of waffles for a unique breakfast or brunch option. Perfect for a special occasion or a cozy morning at home.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground turkey
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup cream of mushroom soup
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 waffle mix packets (or homemade waffle batter)
– Butter or non-stick cooking spray for the waffles
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook turkey, onion, and garlic in a skillet until browned, breaking into small pieces as it cooks.
3. Add cream of mushroom soup, milk, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir until combined.
4. Pour mixture into a baking dish and bake for 20-25 minutes or until hot and bubbly.
5. Cook waffles according to package instructions (or use homemade batter).
6. Serve turkey ala king over waffles and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Dairy-Free Turkey Ala King with Coconut Milk
This rich and creamy turkey dish is a twist on the classic recipe, substituting dairy products with coconut milk to cater to those with dietary restrictions. Perfect for a special occasion or a cozy dinner at home.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cooked turkey breast, diced
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter or coconut oil
– 1 medium onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large skillet, melt the butter or heat the oil over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the garlic and mushrooms; cook until the mushrooms release their liquid and start browning, about 5 minutes.
4. Stir in the diced turkey, coconut milk, thyme, salt, and pepper.
5. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let cook for 10-12 minutes or until heated through.
Cooking Time: 15-18 minutes
Turkey Ala King Stuffed Potatoes
A classic comfort food recipe that combines tender turkey, creamy mushroom sauce, and fluffy potatoes. This dish is perfect for a cozy night in or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 large baking potatoes
– 1 lb cooked turkey breast, diced
– 1 cup Turkey Ala King sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1 tablespoon butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Bake potatoes for 45-50 minutes, or until tender.
3. While potatoes are baking, mix turkey, Turkey Ala King sauce, and shredded cheese in a bowl.
4. When potatoes are done, slice them open and fill each with the turkey mixture.
5. Dot the top of each potato with butter and season with salt and pepper.
6. Return stuffed potatoes to the oven for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Turkey Ala King Pie with Flaky Crust
Turkey Ala King Pie with Flaky Crust: A Classic Comfort Food Recipe
This creamy pie is a twist on the classic turkey ala king, wrapped in a buttery flaky crust. Perfect for a comforting dinner or brunch, this recipe serves 6-8 people.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
– 1/4 cup ice-cold water
– Filling ingredients (below)
– For the filling:
+ 1 pound cooked turkey, diced
+ 1/2 cup heavy cream
+ 1/2 cup mushroom duxelles (see note)
+ 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
+ Salt and pepper to taste
+ Fresh parsley or thyme for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine flour, butter, and ice-cold water. Mix until dough forms.
3. Roll out the dough on a floured surface to about 1/8 inch thickness.
4. Fill the center of the dough with turkey ala king mixture (see below for turkey ala king recipe).
5. Fold the crust over the filling, pressing edges to seal.
6. Brush top with egg wash and bake for 35-40 minutes or until golden brown.
Note: Mushroom duxelles is a mixture of sautéed mushrooms and herbs. You can use store-bought or make your own.
Turkey Ala King with Peas and Carrots
This classic comfort food dish combines tender turkey, sweet peas, and crunchy carrots in a rich and creamy sauce. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cooked turkey breast, diced
– 2 cups mixed vegetables (peas and carrots)
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté until fragrant.
2. Add mixed vegetables, salt, and pepper. Cook until tender, about 5 minutes.
3. Stir in heavy cream and Dijon mustard. Bring to a simmer.
4. Add diced turkey and stir until coated with sauce.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Turkey Ala King with Sherry Cream Sauce
Elevate your dinner game with this classic recipe that combines tender turkey with a rich and creamy sherry sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cooked turkey breast or thighs, diced
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/4 cup dry white wine (such as Chardonnay)
– 2 tablespoons sherry vinegar
– 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Melt butter in a large skillet over medium heat.
2. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add turkey, heavy cream, white wine, sherry vinegar, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
4. Bring mixture to a simmer and cook for 5-7 minutes or until sauce has thickened slightly.
5. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Turkey Ala King on Toast Points
This classic recipe elevates a comforting dish into a stylish appetizer or snack perfect for any gathering. The combination of tender turkey, savory mushrooms, and creamy sauce served atop crispy toast points is sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cooked turkey breast, diced
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1/2 cup mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 12-16 toast points (store-bought or homemade)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add mushrooms and cook until tender, about 5 minutes.
3. Sprinkle flour over the mushrooms and cook for an additional minute.
4. Gradually add heavy cream, whisking continuously. Bring mixture to a simmer and cook until thickened, about 2-3 minutes.
5. Stir in diced turkey and paprika. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Arrange toast points on a baking sheet and top each with a spoonful of the turkey ala king mixture.
7. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 20-22 minutes
Turkey Ala King with Herbed Biscuit Topping
A classic comfort food dish gets a flavorful boost with the addition of fresh herbs and flaky biscuit toppings. This recipe is perfect for a cozy dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
For the Turkey Ala King:
– 1 lb cooked turkey breast, diced
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
For the Herbed Biscuit Topping:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 4 teaspoons cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
– 3/4 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon chopped fresh parsley
– 1/2 teaspoon chopped fresh chives
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened.
3. Add turkey, heavy cream, thyme, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 5-7 minutes or until heated through.
4. Meanwhile, prepare biscuit topping: Whisk flour, baking powder, and salt. Cut in butter until mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Stir in parsley and chives.
5. Drop spoonfuls of biscuit dough onto the turkey mixture. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until biscuits are golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Turkey Ala King and Mashed Potato Bake
This comforting casserole combines the flavors of tender turkey, creamy sauce, and fluffy mashed potatoes for a satisfying meal. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless turkey breast, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4-6 large potatoes, peeled and chopped
– 1/4 cup grated cheddar cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook turkey, mushrooms, butter, onion, and garlic in a skillet until turkey is cooked through.
3. Add flour, chicken broth, and heavy cream; stir until sauce thickens.
4. Meanwhile, boil potatoes until tender; drain and mash with butter and salt.
5. In a 9×13-inch baking dish, combine turkey mixture and mashed potatoes.
6. Top with cheddar cheese (if using); bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Summary
Discover 20 mouthwatering Turkey Ala King recipes that are easy to make! From classic puff pastry to slow cooker, instant pot, and gluten-free versions, there’s a recipe for every taste and preference. Enjoy creamy twists with mushrooms, cauliflower rice, and sherry cream sauce, or try something new like turkey ala king on toast points or stuffed potatoes. With these recipes, you’ll never run out of ideas for using up leftover turkey. Get ready to indulge in the ultimate comfort food!
