A delightful casserole featuring turkey, noodles, and a creamy poppy seed sauce, perfect for family dinners.
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Preheating ensures even cooking and the right texture for your casserole.
Cook the egg noodles according to the package instructions until just al dente. Drain and set aside.
Slightly undercook the noodles as they will continue to cook in the oven.
In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and diced green bell pepper, and sauté until softened.
Cook the vegetables until they are tender but not browned for a sweeter flavor.
Sprinkle the flour over the vegetables and stir to combine. Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
Cooking the flour removes its raw taste and helps thicken the sauce.
Gradually whisk in the milk, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens and becomes bubbly.
Add the milk slowly to prevent lumps and ensure a smooth sauce.
Stir in the Parmesan cheese, poppy seeds, salt, and cayenne pepper. Mix until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth.
Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning to your preference.
Combine the cooked noodles and turkey with the sauce, ensuring everything is evenly coated.
Mix gently to avoid breaking the noodles.
Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish and sprinkle with additional Parmesan cheese.
Use a spatula to spread the mixture evenly in the dish.
Bake uncovered in the preheated oven for 45 minutes, or until the top is golden and the casserole is heated through.
Check the casserole halfway through to ensure even cooking.
Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes before serving. Enjoy your meal!
Resting allows the casserole to set, making it easier to serve.