Pin Recipe Mac and Cheese Stuffed Turkey Rolls bring together the best of two comfort food classics in one satisfying main dish. Creamy, cheesy macaroni gets hugged by juicy turkey breast, finished with a crunchy, golden topping. It is the sort of meal that delivers cozy vibes and a bit of playfulness to the dinner table, whether it is a weeknight or a special family gathering.
The first time I made these rolls, I was looking for a way to keep everyone happy on Thanksgiving when my kids declared plain turkey too boring. Now, they appear every few weeks, even outside the holidays. It is the ultimate crowd pleaser at our table.
Ingredients
- Turkey breast cutlets: bring lean protein and roll up so nicely Choose ones that are evenly sized for the best results
- Olive oil: locks in juiciness during baking Go for extra virgin for a richer flavor
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper: essential for seasoning Taste your salt before adding as turkey can be mild
- Elbow macaroni: for the filling This pasta is classic and cooks quickly Choose bronze cut if you can for sauce cling
- Unsalted butter: forms a velvety base in the cheese sauce Use good quality for the butter’s sweet flavor
- All purpose flour: thickens the cheese sauce Make sure it is fresh for lump free results
- Whole milk: adds creamy richness Do not sub with skim for best texture
- Sharp cheddar cheese: brings that nostalgic flavor Shred your own from a block for maximum melt
- Mozzarella cheese: blends in stretch and gooeyness Choose low moisture mozzarella for less sog
- Dijon mustard: brightens the cheese filling Just a bit wakes up all the flavors
- Garlic powder: adds background savory note Pick a fresh jar for potency
- Panko breadcrumbs: create extra crunch in the topping Choose Japanese style for best texture
- Grated Parmesan: brings salty umami to the topping Use real Parmigiano Reggiano if possible
- Melted butter: helps the topping brown and taste buttery
- Fresh parsley (optional): gives color and a hint of freshness Choose flat leaf for best flavor
Instructions
- Prepare the Oven and Pan:
- Preheat your oven to two hundred degrees Celsius or four hundred degrees Fahrenheit Line a baking dish with parchment or lightly grease it so the rolls will not stick
- Boil the Macaroni:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil Add the elbow macaroni and cook until just al dente Drain well and set aside You want the pasta slightly firm at this stage so it holds up inside the rolls
- Make the Cheese Sauce:
- Melt butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat Stir in flour and cook while stirring constantly for about one minute until it forms a smooth paste Gradually whisk in the whole milk until no lumps remain Simmer the mixture two to three minutes stirring often until it is thick but pourable
- Mix the Mac and Cheese Filling:
- Remove the saucepan from heat Stir in the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheese along with the Dijon mustard and garlic powder Season generously with salt and pepper Stir until smooth and creamy Fold in the cooked macaroni Let cool slightly so it thickens up and is easier to roll
- Flatten and Season Turkey:
- Lay each turkey breast cutlet between two sheets of parchment paper Use a meat mallet or rolling pin to pound them down to about half a centimeter thick Both sides get sprinkled with salt and black pepper This step is key so each bite is tender and flavorful
- Fill and Roll the Turkey:
- Spoon a good mound of the mac and cheese mixture on the short end of each turkey fillet Roll each tightly around the filling Secure with toothpicks if needed Place each roll seam side down into your prepared baking dish
- Add Crunchy Topping:
- In a small bowl combine the panko breadcrumbs grated Parmesan cheese and melted butter Mix until panko is nicely coated Sprinkle this evenly over each turkey roll to create a golden crust
- Bake to Perfection:
- Pop the dish into your hot oven Bake for twenty five to thirty minutes or until the turkey is thoroughly cooked and the tops turn golden brown Let the rolls rest for five minutes so they slice cleanly Remove any toothpicks before serving Sprinkle chopped parsley over if desired
Pin Recipe The cheddar in this recipe is my favorite ingredient It melts into luxurious sauce and gives that classic flavor my kids adore I have a special memory of their faces lighting up the first time I sliced into these rolls to reveal the oozy mac and cheese center
Storage Tips
These turkey rolls keep well in the fridge for up to three days Make sure to let them cool fully before storing in an airtight container To reheat cover with foil and warm in a low oven to keep everything moist
Ingredient Substitutions
Chicken breast fillets work beautifully if you cannot find turkey For a gluten free version choose gluten free pasta and breadcrumbs If you want more vegetables try folding in chopped spinach or roasted peppers into the mac and cheese
Serving Suggestions
Serve these with a crisp green salad or simple steamed broccoli to balance the richness For a festive meal pair with a glass of fruity white wine like Chardonnay or a sparkling apple cider for the kids
Cultural and Seasonal Context
Stuffed turkey feels at home on the holiday table but these rolls make turkey fun all year long Their playful twist gets everyone excited for dinner Not just for Thanksgiving this dish is a tasty way to celebrate any cozy night at home
Seasonal Adaptations
Add sautéed mushrooms for a fall version Use spring peas or asparagus in the mac and cheese for a fresh spring feel Try smoked gouda in the cheese sauce for extra warmth in winter
Success Stories
I have made this as a Sunday dinner for family friends and everyone left with the recipe It became a birthday meal request for my youngest who normally will not eat turkey If you are looking for a guaranteed hit do not skip the crunchy topping
Freezer Meal Conversion
To freeze assemble the rolls without baking then wrap snugly with foil and plastic Freeze up to two months Bake straight from frozen with an extra ten to fifteen minutes cook time
Pin Recipe Serve these golden turkey rolls piping hot straight from the oven for maximum comfort and flavor. They are always a hit with kids and adults alike.
Recipe FAQs
- → Can I substitute chicken for turkey?
Yes, chicken breast cutlets work well and can be used in place of turkey without major adjustments.
- → How do I keep the rolls from unrolling during baking?
Secure each rolled cutlet with toothpicks and place seam-side down in the baking dish for best results.
- → What can I add to the mac and cheese filling?
Enhance the filling with chopped cooked bacon or caramelized onions for extra depth of flavor.
- → What sides pair well with this dish?
Crisp green salads or simply steamed vegetables complement the richness of these savory rolls.
- → How can I get a crispier topping?
Mix panko with melted butter and Parmesan to ensure a golden, crunchy finish when baked.
- → Is this dish suitable for those with allergies?
It contains common allergens such as dairy, gluten, and possibly eggs. Check labels and ingredients where necessary.