Leftover Turkey Casserole Recipe

Transform your leftover turkey into a mouthwatering casserole that's both comforting and delicious. This recipe combines tender turkey meat, cornbread, and a medley of vegetables, all enveloped in a creamy gravy sauce. Perfect for a cozy dinner!

Photos of Leftover Turkey Casserole Recipe

Make sure to pick up McCormick Simply Better Turkey Gravy and mozzarella if you don't have them on hand. The cornbread can be homemade or store-bought. The frozen peas and frozen green beans are found in the frozen food section, while the carrots can be fresh or pre-packaged in the produce section.

Ingredients For Leftover Turkey Casserole

unsalted butter: Adds richness and depth to the sauce.

flour: Helps thicken the sauce to a creamy consistency.

kosher salt: Enhances the overall flavor of the dish.

black pepper: Adds a subtle kick and balances the flavors.

McCormick Simply Better Turkey Gravy: Ready-made gravy that saves time and adds a robust turkey flavor.

whole milk: Provides creaminess to the sauce.

mozzarella: Melts beautifully into the sauce, adding a cheesy element.

cornbread: Adds texture and a slight sweetness to the casserole.

turkey meat: The star ingredient, making use of the leftovers.

frozen peas: Adds a pop of color and sweetness.

carrots: Brings a slight sweetness and crunch to the mix.

frozen green beans: Adds another layer of vegetable goodness and texture.

One reader, Armand Picard says:

This leftover turkey casserole recipe is a game-changer! The creamy gravy and melted mozzarella blend perfectly with the cornbread and veggies. It's a delicious, comforting dish that makes the most of holiday leftovers. Highly recommend!

Armand Picard

Techniques Required for Making Leftover Turkey Casserole

How to make a roux: Melt butter in a saucepan, then whisk in flour and cook for about 1 minute to form a paste. How to whisk: Continuously stir the mixture to ensure it becomes smooth and free of lumps. How to preheat an oven: Set the oven to the desired temperature and allow it to reach that temperature before placing the dish inside. How to cover a dish with foil: Place aluminum foil over the top of the baking dish to trap heat and moisture. How to uncover a dish: Remove the aluminum foil to allow the top to brown and crisp up.

This leftover turkey casserole recipe repurposes Thanksgiving leftovers in the most delicious way. It’s made with gravy, cornbread, frozen vegetables, and turkey meat, of course. Creamy and indulgent, this dish will make you love turkey casseroles like never before! To bring a holiday mood to your dinner table, serve it with mashed potatoes or cranberry sauce.

What’s in This Leftover Turkey Casserole?

If you’re wondering what to do with leftover turkey, this turkey casserole recipe is right up your alley! It can make leftover turkeys taste so much better. It’s also a bonus that this dish can be ready in just 45 minutes.

Here are all of the ingredients you need:

Butter – Use unsalted butter!
Flour – To thicken the gravy.
Seasonings – Add kosher salt and crushed black pepper for extra flavor.
Turkey Gravy – Use McCormick Simply Better Turkey Gravy as it has no artificial flavors. Plus, no MSG added!
Whole milk – Use heavy cream if you want a creamier gravy.
Mozzarella – To give your sauce a cheesy spin!
Cornbread – Slice it into chunks. Or, just use regular stuffing cubes instead.
Turkey meat – You can use white or dark or a combination of the two!
Vegetables – This recipe for leftover turkey casserole calls for frozen peas, carrots, and frozen green beans.

Tips for Making Leftover Turkey Casserole

This easy leftover turkey recipe lets you turn leftover turkey into a cozy casserole that will feed the whole family. It guarantees that none of that leftover turkey goes to waste. Truly one of those easy leftover turkey casserole recipes to keep in your back pocket!

Here are some tips you can follow to make the very best Thanksgiving leftover casserole:

Don’t have cornbread? Then, make some leftover turkey casserole with noodles instead. You only have to stir the cooked pasta with the rest of the ingredients before popping the casserole in the oven. It can also be made with rice if you want. Got some leftover stuffing? Then, by all means, make this turkey casserole with stuffing.
Feel free to use up any Thanksgiving leftovers for this recipe. If you have leftover Brussel sprouts, add them instead of frozen green beans. Any leftover roasted veggies will be fantastic additions, too!
Add more veggies for a healthy version! You can also add corn, mushrooms, or broccoli.
Try baking the dish uncovered for another 10 minutes. It will give your casserole a delicious, golden brown top.
Make it creamier with cream of chicken soup! Instead of turkey gravy, whip up a savory sauce with cream of chicken soup, milk, cheese, and seasonings.

This leftover turkey casserole is just one of the many leftover turkey ideas that make the most of your leftovers. Looking for more leftover turkey recipes? Ground your leftover turkey and make some cheesy ground turkey casserole. You will also love this hamburger cabbage casserole that’s made flavorful with spices and tomato sauce!

Frequently Asked Questions

How do you make leftover turkey moist?

To keep the leftover turkey moist and juicy, you must store and reheat them properly. When storing, make sure to place them in a tightly-sealed container.

If reheating the turkey using the oven, preheat the oven to 300 degrees F and cover the meat with aluminum foil.

You can also reheat the turkey meat on the stovetop or microwave.

Whichever method you choose, note that the turkey meat should reach an internal temperature of 165 degrees F.

How long is leftover turkey good for?

If stored the right way in the fridge, leftover turkey is good for 3 to 4 days. Meanwhile, it can last for 2 to 3 months in the freezer.

How To Make Leftover Turkey Casserole

Got a lot of leftover turkey from your Thanksgiving party? Turn it into a delicious dish with this turkey casserole that’s made with cheesy gravy and cornbread.

How To Make Leftover Turkey Casserole

Got a lot of leftover turkey from your Thanksgiving party? Turn it into a delicious dish with this turkey casserole that’s made with cheesy gravy and cornbread.

Preparation: 5 minutes

Cooking: 40 minutes

Total: 45 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

4 tbsp unsalted butter
¼ cup flour
½ tsp kosher salt
½ tsp black pepper, crushed
1 cup McCormick Simply Better Turkey Gravy
1 cup whole milk
1 cup mozzarella, shredded
3 cups cornbread, cut into 1-inch chunks
3 cups turkey meat, cooked, chopped
½ cup frozen peas
1 cup carrots, chopped
1 cup frozen green beans, chopped

Instructions

Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F.
Add the butter to a medium-sized saucepan, melting it on medium heat.
Add the flour to the pan, then whisk well together for 1 minute before adding in the gravy, milk, and mozzarella. Whisk until smooth.
Add the cornbread, turkey, peas, carrots, and green beans to a 9×13-inch pan, then cover with the gravy.
Cook in the oven for 20 to 25 minutes covered, followed by 10 minutes uncovered.
Serve warm, and enjoy!

Nutrition

Calories: 354.05kcal
Fat: 14.63g
Saturated Fat: 6.72g
Trans Fat: 0.21g
Monounsaturated Fat: 3.93g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 2.64g
Carbohydrates: 35.17g
Fiber: 1.30g
Sugar: 2.91g
Protein: 20.07g
Cholesterol: 81.91mg
Sodium: 710.73mg
Calcium: 263.58mg
Potassium: 359.08mg
Iron: 2.48mg
Vitamin A: 206.64µg
Vitamin C: 4.05mg

Helpful Technique for Preparing Leftover Turkey Casserole

When making the gravy mixture, ensure you whisk the flour and butter together thoroughly to create a smooth roux. This will help prevent lumps and ensure a creamy texture in the final casserole.

Time-Saving Tips for Preparing a Leftover Turkey Casserole

Prep ingredients ahead: Chop turkey meat, carrots, and green beans in advance to save time during assembly.

Use pre-made gravy: Opt for McCormick Simply Better turkey gravy to skip making gravy from scratch.

Frozen veggies: Utilize frozen peas and frozen green beans to cut down on prep time.

Quick cornbread: Use store-bought cornbread or make it a day ahead to streamline the process.

One-pan method: Mix everything directly in the 9x13-inch pan to minimize cleanup.

Substitute Ingredients For Leftover Turkey Casserole Recipe

unsalted butter - Substitute with olive oil: Olive oil provides a similar fat content and can add a slightly different but pleasant flavor.
flour - Substitute with cornstarch: Cornstarch can thicken sauces similarly to flour but may require a smaller quantity.
kosher salt - Substitute with sea salt: Sea salt has a similar texture and salinity, making it a good alternative.
black pepper - Substitute with white pepper: White pepper has a similar heat profile but a slightly different flavor, which can be interesting.
mccormick simply better turkey gravy - Substitute with homemade turkey gravy: Homemade gravy can be richer and more flavorful, allowing for customization.
whole milk - Substitute with half-and-half: Half-and-half provides a creamier texture and richer flavor.
mozzarella - Substitute with cheddar cheese: Cheddar cheese melts well and adds a sharper flavor.
cornbread - Substitute with stuffing mix: Stuffing mix can provide a similar texture and flavor, especially if it's herb-seasoned.
turkey meat - Substitute with chicken meat: Chicken meat has a similar texture and can be used interchangeably in casseroles.
frozen peas - Substitute with fresh peas: Fresh peas can provide a brighter flavor and better texture.
carrots - Substitute with parsnips: Parsnips have a similar texture but a slightly sweeter and earthier flavor.
frozen green beans - Substitute with fresh green beans: Fresh green beans offer a crisper texture and more vibrant flavor.

Presenting Your Leftover Turkey Casserole

Serve smaller portion sizes: Present the leftover turkey casserole in elegant, individual ramekins to ensure a refined and controlled portion size.
Use decoration: Garnish each serving with a sprinkle of fresh parsley and a light drizzle of truffle oil to add a touch of sophistication and aroma.
Layer the ingredients: Instead of mixing everything together, layer the cornbread, turkey, and vegetables in the ramekins to create a visually appealing stratification.
Add a crispy topping: Finish with a thin layer of panko breadcrumbs mixed with a bit of parmesan cheese and butter for a golden, crispy top.
Use a vibrant sauce: Accompany the casserole with a side of cranberry reduction sauce for a pop of color and a complementary tart flavor.
Plate with precision: Place the ramekin on a large, white plate, and add a small, artfully arranged salad of mixed greens with a light vinaigrette to balance the richness of the casserole.
Highlight the main ingredient: Ensure that the turkey meat is prominently visible on the top layer to emphasize the star of the dish.
Use high-quality serveware: Serve the dish in fine porcelain ramekins and use polished silverware to enhance the overall dining experience.
Incorporate texture: Add a few toasted nuts or crispy shallots on top for an additional layer of texture and flavor contrast.
Finish with a flourish: Just before serving, lightly dust the plate with a pinch of smoked paprika or microgreens for a final touch of elegance and color.

Essential Tools for Making a Turkey Casserole

Oven: Used to bake the casserole at the specified temperature of 350 degrees F.
Medium-sized saucepan: Needed to melt the butter and prepare the gravy mixture.
Whisk: Essential for combining the flour, gravy, milk, and mozzarella until smooth.
9x13-inch pan: The baking dish where you will assemble and bake the casserole.
Measuring cups: Used to measure out the flour, gravy, milk, mozzarella, cornbread, turkey, peas, carrots, and green beans.
Measuring spoons: Needed to measure the kosher salt and black pepper.
Knife: Useful for chopping the turkey meat and carrots if they are not pre-cut.
Cutting board: Provides a safe surface for chopping the turkey and carrots.
Mixing spoon: Used to stir the ingredients together in the baking dish.
Aluminum foil: Used to cover the casserole during the initial baking period.
Oven mitts: Essential for safely handling the hot baking dish when removing it from the oven.
Serving spoon: Used to serve the warm casserole.

Storing and Freezing Your Leftover Turkey Casserole

Allow the leftover turkey casserole to cool completely before storing or freezing. This will prevent condensation from forming and making the casserole soggy.
To store in the refrigerator, transfer the cooled casserole to an airtight container or cover the baking dish tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. The casserole will keep in the fridge for up to 3-4 days.
For longer storage, freeze the casserole. Wrap the cooled dish tightly with plastic wrap, followed by a layer of aluminum foil. Label the dish with the date and contents. The casserole can be frozen for up to 2-3 months.
To reheat the refrigerated casserole, cover the dish with foil and bake in a preheated 350°F (175°C) oven for about 20-25 minutes, or until heated through.
If reheating a frozen casserole, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before baking. Cover the dish with foil and bake in a preheated 350°F (175°C) oven for 30-40 minutes, or until heated through and bubbly. Remove the foil during the last 10 minutes of baking to allow the top to crisp up.
Alternatively, you can freeze individual portions of the casserole in freezer-safe containers or resealable bags. This allows for easy reheating of smaller servings in the microwave or oven as needed.

How To Reheat Leftover Turkey Casserole

The best way to reheat leftover turkey casserole is in the oven. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Cover the casserole dish with aluminum foil to prevent the top from burning and drying out. Place the covered dish in the preheated oven and reheat for 20-30 minutes, or until the casserole is heated through and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
Another option is to reheat individual portions in the microwave. Place a single serving of the casserole on a microwave-safe plate and cover it with a damp paper towel. This will help prevent the casserole from drying out. Microwave on high power for 1-2 minutes, or until the casserole is heated through. Stir the casserole halfway through the reheating process to ensure even heating.
If you have a lot of leftover casserole, you can also reheat it in a slow cooker. Transfer the casserole to the slow cooker and add a little bit of chicken broth or water to help keep it moist. Cover the slow cooker and reheat on low for 2-3 hours, or until the casserole is heated through.
For a crispy top, you can reheat the casserole in the oven without the aluminum foil cover for the last 5-10 minutes of reheating. This will allow the top of the casserole to brown and crisp up, adding a nice texture to the dish.
Regardless of the reheating method you choose, be sure to stir the casserole well before serving to distribute the heat evenly. If the casserole seems dry, you can add a little bit of gravy, chicken broth, or milk to help moisten it up.

Interesting Fact About Leftover Turkey Casserole

A fun fact about this leftover turkey casserole recipe is that it creatively uses cornbread as a base, adding a unique texture and flavor compared to traditional casseroles. This dish is a great way to repurpose leftover turkey from holiday meals, reducing food waste while providing a comforting and hearty meal.

Is Making a Leftover Turkey Casserole Economical?

This leftover turkey casserole recipe is highly cost-effective for a household. Utilizing leftover turkey and cornbread minimizes waste and maximizes value. The inclusion of frozen peas, carrots, and green beans keeps costs low while adding nutritional value. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people is around $10-$12. Overall Verdict: 9/10.

Is This Casserole Healthy or Unhealthy?

This leftover turkey casserole recipe, while comforting and delicious, leans towards the unhealthy side due to several factors:

The use of butter and whole milk contributes to a higher saturated fat content
The gravy and cornbread add extra calories and carbohydrates
The recipe lacks a significant source of fiber, which is essential for a balanced meal
The sodium content may be high, depending on the gravy and cornbread used

However, the recipe does include some nutritious ingredients, such as turkey (a lean protein source), peas, carrots, and green beans, which provide vitamins and minerals.

To make this recipe healthier, consider the following modifications:

Replace the butter with a healthier fat source, such as olive oil or avocado oil
Use low-fat milk or a plant-based alternative to reduce the saturated fat content
Opt for a low-sodium, homemade gravy to control the salt intake
Incorporate more vegetables into the casserole, such as mushrooms, onions, or bell peppers, to increase the fiber and nutrient content
Use whole grain cornbread or replace it with a healthier alternative, such as quinoa or brown rice, to boost the fiber and complex carbohydrates
Reduce the amount of cheese used or choose a low-fat variety to decrease the saturated fat content

By making these adjustments, you can transform this comforting casserole into a more balanced and nutritious meal that still satisfies your taste buds and makes the most of your leftover turkey.

Editor's Thoughts on This Leftover Turkey Casserole Recipe

This leftover turkey casserole recipe is a comforting and efficient way to repurpose holiday leftovers. The combination of cornbread, turkey, and vegetables creates a hearty base, while the homemade gravy adds a rich, creamy texture. The use of mozzarella introduces a delightful cheesy element. However, consider sautéing the carrots and green beans briefly before adding them to the casserole to enhance their flavor and texture. Overall, it's a well-balanced dish that is both satisfying and easy to prepare.

Enhance Your Leftover Turkey Casserole Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Balsamic Glaze: Elevate your leftover turkey casserole with a side of roasted Brussels sprouts drizzled with a tangy balsamic glaze. The caramelized edges and the sweet yet acidic notes will perfectly complement the creamy richness of the casserole.

Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Pair your main course with a bowl of garlic mashed potatoes. The smooth, buttery texture and the aromatic garlic infusion will make every bite of the turkey casserole even more comforting.

Cranberry Apple Salad: Add a refreshing contrast to your meal with a cranberry apple salad. The crisp apples, tart cranberries, and a hint of citrus will bring a burst of freshness that balances the savory elements of the casserole.

Butternut Squash Soup: Warm up your dinner table with a bowl of butternut squash soup. The velvety texture and the natural sweetness of the squash will harmonize beautifully with the flavors of the leftover turkey casserole.

Pumpkin Pie: Finish your feast on a sweet note with a slice of pumpkin pie. The spiced pumpkin filling and the flaky crust will provide a delightful end to your main course, leaving everyone satisfied and happy.

Similar Recipes to Leftover Turkey Casserole

Turkey Pot Pie: Transform your leftover turkey into a comforting pot pie. With a flaky crust and a creamy filling of vegetables and gravy, this dish is sure to warm your heart and your stomach.

Turkey and Vegetable Soup: Turn your leftover turkey into a hearty soup. Combine it with a medley of vegetables like carrots, peas, and green beans. Add some herbs and broth for a soul-soothing meal.

Turkey Shepherd's Pie: Reimagine your leftover turkey in a shepherd's pie. Layer it with mashed potatoes, corn, and peas. Bake until golden and bubbly for a dish that’s both comforting and delicious.

Turkey and Cranberry Quesadillas: Give your leftover turkey a Mexican twist. Pair it with cranberry sauce, cheese, and tortillas for a quick and tasty quesadilla that’s perfect for lunch or dinner.

Turkey and Stuffing Muffins: Combine your leftover turkey and stuffing into savory muffins. Add some gravy and cranberries for a delightful bite-sized treat that’s perfect for any meal.

Appetizer and Dessert Pairings for Leftover Turkey Casserole

Appetizers:

Stuffed Mushrooms: Stuffed Mushrooms are a delightful way to start any meal. Imagine plump mushroom caps filled with a savory mixture of cream cheese, garlic, and herbs. The filling is then topped with a sprinkle of parmesan and breadcrumbs, creating a crispy, golden crust. These bite-sized treats are perfect for whetting the appetite and setting the stage for the main course.

Bruschetta: Bruschetta is a classic Italian starter that never fails to impress. Picture slices of toasted baguette topped with a vibrant mix of diced tomatoes, fresh basil, and mozzarella. A drizzle of balsamic glaze and a touch of olive oil elevate this simple dish to a new level of deliciousness. It's a fresh and flavorful way to kick off any meal.

Desserts:

Pumpkin Pie: Pumpkin Pie is a classic autumn treat that combines a rich, spiced pumpkin filling with a buttery, flaky crust. To elevate this traditional dessert, consider adding a layer of cream cheese beneath the pumpkin mixture for a delightful twist. Top it off with a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of cinnamon for an extra touch of warmth and flavor. Serve it chilled or at room temperature for a comforting end to any meal.

Apple Crisp: Apple Crisp is a comforting dessert that features tender, spiced apple slices topped with a crunchy oatmeal streusel. For a unique variation, incorporate a handful of dried cranberries or chopped nuts into the streusel topping. Serve it warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of caramel sauce to create a delightful contrast of textures and temperatures. This dessert is perfect for showcasing the flavors of the season.

Why trust this Leftover Turkey Casserole Recipe:

This leftover turkey casserole recipe is a fantastic way to repurpose your turkey meat and cornbread. The combination of butter, flour, and gravy creates a rich, creamy sauce that binds the dish together beautifully. The addition of mozzarella adds a delightful cheesy layer, while the peas, carrots, and green beans provide a burst of color and nutrition. This recipe is straightforward, ensuring a delicious meal with minimal effort. Trust this recipe to turn your leftovers into a comforting, satisfying dish that the whole family will love.

Got a great leftover turkey casserole recipe of your own? Head over to the Recipe Sharing section and let us know!

FAQ:

Can I use a different type of cheese instead of mozzarella?

Absolutely! You can use cheddar, Swiss, or any other cheese you prefer. It might change the flavor a bit, but it will still be delicious.

Do I need to thaw the frozen peas and green beans before adding them?

Nope, you can add them straight from the freezer. They'll cook perfectly in the oven.

Can I use leftover stuffing instead of cornbread?

Yes, you can substitute leftover stuffing for the cornbread. It will add a different texture and flavor, but it will still work great.

How do I store leftovers of this casserole?

Just cover the casserole dish with plastic wrap or transfer the leftovers to an airtight container. Store it in the fridge for up to 3-4 days.

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Definitely! You can assemble the casserole, cover it, and store it in the fridge for up to a day before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it's coming straight from the fridge.

Was this page helpful?

Yes No

Conclusion

If you have any turkey leftovers, give this easy leftover turkey casserole a try. Hands down, it’s one of the best leftover turkey recipes worth trying! The turkey meat is made more delicious with cheesy gravy, vegetables, and cornbread. Serve with your favorite Thanksgiving side dish for a more festive meal!