Two Thumbs Up for the "Biggest Book of Casseroles"

The most recent addition to my ever-expanding collection of cookbooks was given to me for Christmas from my sister. After owning it for just a few months, I have already made quite a few recipes from it and all have been delicious. So, I thought it was worth raving about a little bit.

Better Homes and Gardens "Biggest Book of Casseroles" is the name and the cover claims that it contains more than 380 "Delicious Comfort Food Favorites". Casseroles are a favorite because they are usually simple to make and extremely satisfying. I grew up eating them too, especially tuna noodle casserole, which was a staple at our house. In fact, I don't think I've made that dish once since moving out on my own (sorry, mom!)

I welcome variety, but never thought it was possible to come up with so many variations. Well, let me tell you, it is! The book features casseroles for breakfast, dessert, main dish and sides. There are ethnic dishes and the good old stand by's. Some with meat, and some without.

I recently made the "Asparagus-Ham Bake" on page 13 (see picture), and it was scrumptious down to the last bite. The ingredient list includes ham, swiss cheese, rice, asparagus (loooove it) and panko bread crumbs.

I won't give away the entire recipe here, but I urge you to go out and snag a copy for yourself. It is well worth the $20!

Too Good to Forget ~ Smoked Turkey, Broccoli and Gouda Casserole

This dish is an old standby that is especially satisfying on a cold winter day when you're stuck indoors. It was first introduced to me by a friend at work. Whenever we would have office potlucks, she would bring this dish. I loved it so much that I always requested the recipe from her, but she would just laugh and rattle off the list of ingredients, saying that there was no written recipe for it. Eventually, when she left the company, I pinned her down and made her write the recipe down. What I got in return was a grocery list of the ingredients that go into making this wonderful casserole. This is one of the few recipes in my standard rotation that I know by heart. I think it is too good to forget.

Here is what you need to make it:

16 oz. frozen chopped broccoli (thawed)

16 oz. jar of Alfredo sauce

4-5 medium potatoes (any kind you prefer), cubed or sliced thin

4 oz. Smoked Gouda cheese

4 oz. Shredded Parmesan cheese

1 lb. Smoked turkey breast, cut up into cubes

Salt and pepper to taste

Combine all ingredients in a lightly greased casserole dish or 9x13 pan. Bake at 375 degrees for 60-70 minutes or until bubbly and potatoes are tender.