Delicious Turkey Casserole Recipe Using Leftovers

Are you staring at a mountain of leftover turkey after your holiday feast, wondering how to transform it into something new and exciting? Look no further than this delicious turkey casserole recipe that will have your family asking for seconds! This comfort food classic combines tender chunks of turkey with a velvety sauce and savory vegetables, creating the ultimate post-holiday meal. Whether you’re looking to reinvent your Thanksgiving leftovers or simply create a hearty dinner, this creamy turkey casserole, leftover turkey bake is the answer to your mealtime dilemma.

Ingredients List

• 3 cups cooked turkey, shredded or cubed
• 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup (substitute with cream of chicken or celery)
• 1 cup sour cream (Greek yogurt works as a lighter alternative)
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, corn)
• 1 medium onion, finely diced
• 2 celery stalks, chopped
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 cups cooked egg noodles (or rice, quinoa, or pasta of choice)
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (plus ½ cup for topping)
• 1 cup crushed butter crackers or breadcrumbs
• 3 tablespoons butter, melted
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried sage
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional: ¼ cup white wine for deglazing
• Optional: ½ cup chopped fresh parsley for garnish

Timing

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes

This quick assembly casserole saves you approximately 20 minutes compared to traditional turkey casseroles that require pre-cooking multiple components. Perfect for busy weeknights when you need dinner on the table with minimal effort!

Step 1: Prepare Your Base

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a large mixing bowl, combine the cream of mushroom soup, sour cream, and chicken broth. Whisk until smooth and creamy. Pro tip: Warming the broth slightly helps blend everything more easily.

Step 2: Sauté The Aromatics

In a skillet over medium heat, melt 1 tablespoon of butter. Add onions and celery, cooking until translucent (about 3-4 minutes). Add garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant. If using wine, add it now and let it reduce for 1 minute to concentrate the flavors.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients

Add the sautéed vegetables to your creamy base mixture. Fold in the turkey, frozen vegetables, cooked noodles, 1 cup of cheese, thyme, and sage. Season with salt and pepper to taste. The mixture should be creamy but not soupy – add a splash more broth if it seems too thick.

Step 4: Prepare Topping

In a small bowl, combine crushed crackers or breadcrumbs with remaining 2 tablespoons of melted butter. This creates a crunchy, golden topping that adds wonderful texture contrast.

Step 5: Bake To Perfection

Transfer the mixture to a greased 9×13 inch baking dish. Sprinkle with the remaining ½ cup of cheese, then top with the buttered cracker mixture. Bake uncovered for 25-30 minutes until golden and bubbling around the edges.

Nutritional Information

• Calories: 375 per serving
• Protein: 24g
• Carbohydrates: 28g
• Fat: 19g
• Fiber: 2g
• Vitamin A: 35% DV
• Calcium: 20% DV
• Iron: 10% DV
• Serving size: 1 cup (recipe makes approximately 8 servings)

Healthier Alternatives for the Recipe

For a lighter version, substitute Greek yogurt for sour cream, reducing fat while maintaining creaminess. Use whole grain pasta for added fiber, or cauliflower rice for a low-carb option. Dairy-free? Replace cheese with nutritional yeast and use plant-based milk mixed with cornstarch instead of cream soup.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this hearty casserole with a crisp green salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette to cut through the richness. A side of cranberry sauce adds a tangy sweetness that complements the savory flavors. For beverage pairings, try a light Chardonnay or sparkling water with a splash of cranberry juice.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Overcooking the casserole, which dries out the turkey. Remove from oven when just bubbling.
• Under-seasoning – leftover turkey may have lost some flavor, so be generous with herbs.
• Using turkey with skin attached, which can create greasy pockets in your casserole.
• Skipping the resting period – allow 5-10 minutes after baking for flavors to meld.

Storing Tips for the Recipe

This casserole keeps beautifully in the refrigerator for 3-4 days in an airtight container. For freezing, portion into individual servings and store for up to 3 months. When reheating, add a splash of broth to maintain moisture. For best results when freezing, prepare but don’t bake – freeze, then bake from frozen at 350°F for 45-50 minutes.

Conclusion

This versatile turkey casserole transforms ordinary leftovers into an extraordinary meal that’s sure to become a post-holiday tradition. The creamy, comforting flavors combined with the convenience of using what you already have makes this recipe a true kitchen hero. Try it this week and discover your new favorite way to enjoy turkey beyond the holiday table!

FAQs

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! Assemble the casserole up to 24 hours in advance, cover and refrigerate. Add 5-10 minutes to the baking time if cooking from cold.

I don’t have leftover turkey. Can I use something else?
Yes! Rotisserie chicken works perfectly as a substitute. You’ll need about the same amount (3 cups) of shredded meat.

Is this recipe gluten-free?
Not as written, but it can be easily adapted. Use gluten-free pasta and cream soup, and replace the cracker topping with gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed rice cereal.

Can I add different vegetables to this casserole?
Definitely! Broccoli, mushrooms, or spinach make excellent additions. Just ensure vegetables with high water content are pre-cooked and drained to prevent a watery casserole.

Why is my casserole too dry/too soupy?
For dry casserole, your oven may run hot or you might need more liquid. Add extra broth or cream next time. If too soupy, try reducing liquid by ¼ cup or adding 2 tablespoons of flour to the sauce.