Amazing Leftover Turkey Casserole for Delicious Comfort

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Imagine a dish that’s the culinary equivalent of a warm hug on a chilly evening—the kind that wraps around you with comforting flavors and delightful aromas. That’s exactly what you’ll get with this Leftover Turkey Casserole, a magical creation that transforms your holiday leftovers into something spectacular. savory turkey pot pie Picture tender turkey mingling with creamy goodness, vegetables bursting with flavor, and a crunchy topping that makes every bite a joyful celebration.

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Now, before you roll your eyes at the thought of yet another casserole, let me assure you: this one will change your mind! I remember the first time I made this dish after Thanksgiving, my family skeptically eyeing the leftovers piled high in the fridge. But as soon as they caught a whiff of that bubbling casserole coming out of the oven, their doubts melted away faster than butter on warm bread. turkey cranberry sliders Perfect for cozy nights or impromptu potlucks, this Leftover Turkey Casserole promises to bring smiles and satisfied bellies to your table.

Why You'll Love This Leftover Turkey Casserole

  • This amazing Leftover Turkey Casserole offers more than just flavor; it makes meal prep a breeze
  • You can easily customize the ingredients based on what you have on hand
  • The vibrant colors and aromas make it visually stunning on any dinner table
  • Perfect for grilling but versatile enough for baking or pan-searing

Ingredients for Leftover Turkey Casserole

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious Leftover Turkey Casserole:

  • Leftover Cooked Turkey: Shredded or diced, this is the star ingredient that brings all the flavors together.
  • Cream of Chicken Soup: A creamy base that adds richness; feel free to use low-fat options if you’re watching calories.
  • Mixed Vegetables: Frozen or fresh, these add color and nutrition—think peas, carrots, and corn for that classic combo.
  • Cheddar Cheese: Grated cheese brings melty goodness and flavor; use sharp cheddar for an extra kick.
  • Breadcrumbs: These create a crunchy topping that contrasts beautifully with the creamy filling; seasoned varieties work wonders!

For the Seasoning:

  • Garlic Powder: A must-have for that extra depth of flavor; fresh garlic works too if you’re feeling fancy.
  • Dried Thyme: This herb adds an aromatic touch that complements turkey perfectly.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Leftover Turkey Casserole

How to Make Leftover Turkey Casserole

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious Leftover Turkey Casserole:

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it heats up, grab your favorite baking dish—trust me; it’ll be worth it when you’re digging into this delicious creation later.

Step 2: Combine Ingredients

In a large bowl, mix together your shredded turkey, cream of chicken soup, mixed vegetables, garlic powder, dried thyme, and half of the cheddar cheese. Stir until everything is evenly coated—a bit like giving it a spa day!

Step 3: Transfer to Baking Dish

Pour the mixture into your greased baking dish. Spread it out evenly so every spoonful gets its fair share of all those lovely flavors.

Step 4: Add Topping

Sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese over the top followed by an even layer of breadcrumbs. This creates that irresistible crunchy topping we all adore.

Step 5: Bake

Slide your casserole into the preheated oven and bake for about 30-35 minutes or until it’s bubbly and golden brown on top. The aroma will have everyone peeking in like kids waiting for Christmas morning!

Step 6: Serve

Once it’s out of the oven (and cooled slightly unless you want to scorch your tongue), scoop generous portions onto plates. Enjoy with family or friends while basking in compliments about your culinary prowess.

And there you have it! Your Leftover Turkey Casserole is now ready to steal the show at dinner time. Whether you’re serving it during holiday gatherings or needing a quick weeknight meal solution, this casserole is sure to become a family favorite!

You Must Know About Leftover Turkey Casserole

  • This amazing Leftover Turkey Casserole offers more than just flavor; it makes meal prep a breeze
  • You can easily customize the ingredients based on what you have on hand
  • The vibrant colors and aromas make it visually stunning on any dinner table
  • Perfect for grilling but versatile enough for baking or pan-searing

Perfecting Leftover Turkey Casserole Cooking Process

Start by sautéing onions and garlic until fragrant. Next, add leftover turkey to warm through. While that simmers, prepare the sauce and cook pasta or rice. Combine all ingredients in a baking dish, top with cheese, and bake until bubbly.

Add Your Touch to Leftover Turkey Casserole

Feel free to swap the turkey for leftover chicken or veggies. Experiment with different cheeses like cheddar or mozzarella. For a kick, throw in some spicy jalapeños or sprinkle fresh herbs like parsley or thyme.

Storing & Reheating Leftover Turkey Casserole

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, place in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, about 20 minutes, covering with foil to prevent drying out.

Chef's Helpful Tips for Leftover Turkey Casserole

  • This amazing Leftover Turkey Casserole offers more than just flavor; it makes meal prep a breeze
  • You can easily customize the ingredients based on what you have on hand
  • The vibrant colors and aromas make it visually stunning on any dinner table
  • Perfect for grilling but versatile enough for baking or pan-searing

Sometimes, I whip this up after Thanksgiving, and let me tell you, my family goes wild! They think it’s gourmet dining instead of creatively using leftovers.

FAQs About Leftover Turkey Casserole

What is Leftover Turkey Casserole?

Leftover Turkey Casserole is a delicious way to repurpose your holiday turkey into a comforting dish. This casserole typically combines shredded turkey with creamy sauces, vegetables, and a crunchy topping. It offers a hearty meal that satisfies the whole family while minimizing food waste. The beauty of this recipe lies in its versatility, allowing you to use various ingredients based on what you have on hand.

Can I freeze Leftover Turkey Casserole?

Yes, you can freeze Leftover Turkey Casserole for future meals. To do this, prepare the casserole as instructed but stop before baking it. Cover it tightly with plastic wrap and then aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw it in the fridge overnight and bake as directed. Freezing helps preserve flavors and textures, making it a convenient option for busy days. For more inspiration, check out this chicken enchilada casserole recipe.

What ingredients do I need for Leftover Turkey Casserole?

To make a classic Leftover Turkey Casserole, you’ll need shredded turkey, cream of mushroom soup or other creamy sauce, mixed vegetables like peas and carrots, and cheese for topping. hearty turkey noodle soup You can also include herbs and spices for added flavor. creamy mushroom soup Feel free to get creative by adding leftover stuffing or mashed potatoes to enhance the dish further.

How long does Leftover Turkey Casserole last in the fridge?

Leftover Turkey Casserole can last in the refrigerator for about 3 to 5 days when stored properly in an airtight container. It’s essential to let the casserole cool completely before refrigerating to prevent moisture buildup. Always check for any signs of spoilage before reheating and consuming leftovers. For more inspiration, check out this rice and sausage recipes.

Conclusion for Leftover Turkey Casserole

In conclusion, Leftover Turkey Casserole is an excellent way to transform your leftover turkey into a satisfying meal. This versatile dish not only minimizes waste but also provides an opportunity to experiment with flavors and ingredients you love. Whether you choose to freeze extra portions or enjoy them fresh from the oven, this casserole makes meal planning simple and enjoyable. Embrace this recipe next time you have leftover turkey!

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Leftover Turkey Casserole


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  • Author: Annika Weber
  • Total Time: 50 minutes
  • Yield: Serves 6

Description

Leftover Turkey Casserole is the ultimate comfort food that transforms your holiday turkey into a creamy, delicious dish topped with a crunchy finish. This easy-to-make casserole combines tender turkey, vibrant vegetables, and melty cheese, making it perfect for family dinners or cozy gatherings. The best part? It’s customizable based on what you have on hand, ensuring every bite is bursting with flavor. Enjoy this delightful dish fresh from the oven or as a leftover treasure that warms your soul.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 3 cups shredded cooked turkey
  • 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
  • 2 cups mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, corn)
  • 1 cup grated cheddar cheese (divided)
  • 1 cup breadcrumbs
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp dried thyme

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a baking dish.
  2. In a large bowl, mix the shredded turkey, cream of chicken soup, mixed vegetables, garlic powder, thyme, and half of the cheddar cheese until well combined.
  3. Pour the mixture into the greased baking dish and spread evenly.
  4. Top with remaining cheddar cheese and sprinkle breadcrumbs over the top.
  5. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until bubbly and golden brown.
  6. Let cool slightly before serving.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 35 minutes
  • Category: Main
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: Approximately 1 cup (200g)
  • Calories: 350
  • Sugar: 3g
  • Sodium: 720mg
  • Fat: 18g
  • Saturated Fat: 9g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 7g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 32g
  • Fiber: 4g
  • Protein: 20g
  • Cholesterol: 75mg

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