Baked Poultry and Shredded Tuber Casserole

Baked Poultry and Shredded Tuber Casserole

  • 3 cups (about 1½ lbs) shredded cooked poultry (chicken, turkey, or rotisserie chicken)
  • 4 cups (about 1½ lbs) shredded peeled tubers (russet potatoes, sweet potatoes, or a mix)
  • 1 small yellow onion, finely diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1½ cups (6 oz) shredded cheese (cheddar, Gruyère, or Monterey Jack)

For the Creamy Sauce:

  • 2 tbsp butter
  • ¼ cup (30g) all-purpose flour
  • 2½ cups (600ml) chicken broth
  • ½ cup (120ml) heavy cream or whole milk
  • 1 tsp dried thyme (or 1 tbsp fresh)
  • ½ tsp paprika
  • Salt & black pepper to taste

Optional Topping:

  • Extra shredded cheese
  • Breadcrumbs or crushed crackers mixed with melted butter

💡 Pro Tips:

  • Squeeze excess moisture from shredded potatoes if using raw—they release water.
  • Use cooked poultry—raw won’t cook through in time.
  • Freshly shred cheese—pre-shredded doesn’t melt as smoothly.

Step-by-Step Instructions (Creamy, Savory, Foolproof)

1. Prep the Tubers

  • If using raw potatoes: Peel and shred (use box grater or food processor). Rinse briefly, then squeeze dry in a clean towel.
  • If using cooked sweet potatoes: Simply shred or mash lightly.
  • Set aside.

2. Make the Cream Sauce

  • Melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat.
  • Whisk in flour; cook 1–2 minutes until golden.
  • Gradually whisk in chicken broth and cream. Simmer 3–5 minutes until thickened.
  • Stir in thyme, paprika, salt, and pepper.

3. Assemble the Casserole

  • Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
  • In a large bowl, combine shredded poultry, tubers, onion, garlic, and 1 cup cheese.
  • Pour cream sauce over mixture; stir gently to coat.
  • Transfer to baking dish. Top with remaining ½ cup cheese (and breadcrumbs if using).

4. Bake to Perfection

  • Cover with foil; bake 30 minutes.
  • Uncover; bake 15–20 more minutes, until top is golden and edges are bubbly.
  • Let rest 10 minutes before serving (sauce will thicken).

Serving Suggestions

  • 🥗 Classic pairing: Simple green salad with vinaigrette
  • 🥦 Comfort combo: Steamed broccoli or green beans
  • 🍞 Hearty plate: With crusty bread or dinner rolls
  • 🌿 Fresh finish: Sprinkle with parsley or chives

Make-Ahead & Storage Tips

  • Fridge: Assemble unbaked; cover and refrigerate up to 1 day. Bake as directed (+10 mins).
  • Freeze: Bake, cool, then freeze up to 2 months. Thaw overnight; reheat covered at 350°F.
  • Leftovers: Keep up to 4 days—reheat in oven or microwave.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Gluten-free?
A: Yes! Use GF flour or cornstarch slurry (mix 3 tbsp cornstarch + 3 tbsp cold broth; stir in after warming liquids).

Q: Can I use raw chicken?
A: Not recommended—this casserole isn’t designed for raw meat. Use pre-cooked poultry.

Q: Sweet potatoes too sweet?

A: Mix half russet, half sweet potato for balance.

Q: No heavy cream?
A: Use whole milk or full-fat coconut milk for richness.

❤️ The Heart of the Dish

This Baked Poultry and Shredded Tuber Casserole isn’t just practical—it’s a quiet act of care. It’s what you make when you want to stretch leftovers into something special, feed people well without exhaustion, or simply enjoy a meal that feels both wholesome and comforting.

So shred those tubers, layer that poultry, and bake with presence. Because the best meals aren’t complicated—they’re creamy, savory, and made with love.

“Good food doesn’t need a recipe—it just needs chicken, potatoes, and someone hungry.” 🍗✨

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