Economical turkey drumsticks are a great choice for adding lean protein to this hearty bean casserole with smoked turkey sausage adding flavor and even more protein.

Turkey & White Bean Casserole

2 turkey drumsticks
1 1/4 cups water
1 cup chopped onion
1 bay leaf
1/8 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
2 (16-ounce) cans white beans
1/4 cup tomato paste
1 (16-ounce) package smoked turkey sausage, sliced

1. Place turkey drumsticks in large kettle with water, onion, bay leaf, salt and thyme. Bring to a boil. Cover tightly, reduce heat to low and simmer until meat is tender, about 1 1/2 to 1 3/4 hours. Let cool sufficiently to handle, then remove skin and bones, pulling meat off in chunks. Cut meat into 2-inch pieces. Boil down remaining cooking liquid to 3/4 cup.
2. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
3. Drain 1 can of beans and discard 1/2 cup liquid. Combine the remaining liquid with the second can of beans, add to the reduced turkey cooking liquid and tomato paste; mix well. Add turkey chunks and sliced sausage.
4. Turn into a greased 2 1/2 quart baking dish. Cover and bake in the oven for 45 minutes, uncovering during last 15 minutes.

Makes 6 servings.