Leftover Turkey Casserole

There’s something wonderfully nostalgic about a good casserole, and when it’s a Leftover Turkey Casserole, it brings back memories of family gatherings and the comforting warmth of home-cooked meals. After Thanksgiving, when the fridge is packed with turkey, I find myself looking for creative ways to make the most of those delicious leftovers. One cold evening, I decided to throw together a casserole that not only used up the extra turkey but also brought together some of my favorite ingredients. As I stirred the creamy sauce and folded in the tender turkey, the aroma filled the kitchen, instantly warming my heart.

What I love about this Leftover Turkey Casserole is its versatility. It’s a fantastic way to repurpose not only turkey but also any leftover vegetables you might have on hand. Plus, it’s perfect for those cozy nights in, and it always receives compliments from family and friends. It’s the kind of dish that feels indulgent yet is surprisingly easy to prepare. Gather your loved ones around the table, and you’ll find they’re just as excited about this comforting meal as I always am.

The textures in this dish are a delight—from the crispy top layer of cornbread to the creamy, cheesy filling. This casserole is not just about using up leftovers; it’s about creating something new and flavorful that everyone will enjoy. So, let’s dive into the recipe and make this heartwarming Leftover Turkey Casserole together!

What Goes Into Leftover Turkey Casserole

The ingredients for this Leftover Turkey Casserole are simple yet effective, combining to create a harmonious dish that comforts the soul. Each element plays a crucial role in achieving the right texture and flavor profile.

• 4 tablespoons of butter: This is the base for our roux, adding richness and flavor.
• 1/4 cup of flour: Works with the butter to thicken our sauce.
• 1/2 teaspoon of kosher salt: Essential for enhancing the natural flavors of the ingredients.
• 1/2 teaspoon of crushed black pepper: Adds a bit of heat and depth to the dish.
• 1 cup of turkey stock: This will infuse the casserole with a savory flavor that complements the turkey perfectly.
• 1 cup of heavy cream: Creates a rich, creamy texture that binds the dish together.
• 1 cup of sharp cheddar, shredded: Provides a delicious cheese flavor and gooey texture.
• 2 cups of cooked turkey breast meat, chopped: The star of the dish, ensuring a hearty meal.
• 2 cups of cornbread cubes: Adds texture and a subtle sweetness.
• 1/2 cup of frozen peas: Adds color and nutrition.
• 1 cup of chopped carrots: A nice addition for sweetness and crunch.
• 1 cup of chopped frozen green beans: Provides a lovely contrast in texture.
• 1/2 cup of frozen corn: Sweetness and texture to balance the dish.

Making Leftover Turkey Casserole

Creating this Leftover Turkey Casserole is a delightful process that fills your home with irresistible aromas. Let’s walk through the steps together to craft this heartwarming dish.

1. Preheat your oven to 350 degrees. This is an important step to ensure the casserole cooks evenly from the start.
2. In a medium-sized saucepan over medium-high heat, melt the butter. Watch it carefully to prevent it from browning too much.
3. Once the butter is melted, whisk in the flour, salt, and crushed black pepper to create a roux. This will help thicken our sauce, so whisk until it’s smooth.
4. Slowly add in the turkey stock, whisking continuously to avoid any lumps. You’ll notice it begins to thicken as it heats up.
5. When the mixture starts to thicken, pour in the heavy cream while continuing to whisk. This step is crucial for that creamy texture.
6. Next, add in the sharp cheddar cheese. Stir until melted and fully incorporated into the sauce, creating a deliciously cheesy mixture.
7. In a large bowl, combine the chopped turkey, 1 cup of cornbread cubes, peas, carrots, green beans, and corn. Mix gently to combine all the ingredients.
8. Pour in the cheese sauce and stir until all the ingredients are well coated. This step ensures every bite is as flavorful as possible.
9. Spread the mixture evenly into a 9×13 inch pan. Make sure it’s well distributed for even cooking.
10. Top the casserole with the remaining cornbread cubes. This will create a deliciously crispy topping.
11. Cover the pan with foil and place it in the oven. Bake for 20 minutes to help everything meld together.
12. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes until the top is golden brown and crispy. You’ll know it’s done when the top layer looks irresistible!

Things Worth Knowing

Ways to Customize

Customization is key when it comes to the Leftover Turkey Casserole. Here are some great ways to put your own spin on it:

• Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in the oven for best results.
• Freezing: Yes, you can freeze this casserole! Just make sure to wrap it well before freezing. Thaw it in the fridge before baking.
• Pairing: Serve this casserole with a light salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal.
• Spice it Up: Add some diced jalapeños or hot sauce to the cheese sauce for a spicy kick.
• Herb Flavoring: Fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary can elevate the flavor profile. Sprinkle some on top before baking.
• Cheese Variations: Experiment with different types of cheese, such as mozzarella or gouda, for a unique taste.

Serve This Leftover Turkey Casserole With

To really enhance the experience of enjoying your Leftover Turkey Casserole, consider these delightful serving suggestions:

• Fresh Green Salad: A crisp salad with a light vinaigrette balances the richness of the casserole.
• Garlic Bread: Serve with warm garlic bread for a comforting combination.
• Roasted Vegetables: Pair with seasonal roasted vegetables for added texture and flavor.
• Holiday Gatherings: This dish is perfect for Thanksgiving or any family gatherings, ensuring everyone leaves satisfied.
• Casual Weeknight Dinner: It’s an easy meal to whip up on a busy weeknight that everyone will love.
• Leftover Love: This casserole shines when you have extra turkey from holiday meals, embodying everything we love about family traditions.

FAQ

Conclusion

The Leftover Turkey Casserole is truly a delightful dish that transforms simple leftovers into something extraordinary. It brings together familiar flavors into a comforting meal that’s perfect for any occasion. I encourage you to try this recipe and experience the warmth it brings to your table. It’s not just about the food; it’s about the memories and love that come with sharing a meal with those you care about.

Leftover Turkey Casserole

The ultimate comfort food, this Leftover Turkey Casserole is creamy, cheesy, and packed with flavor. It's the perfect way to repurpose your Thanksgiving leftovers into a delicious, easy weeknight dinner. Make this dish tonight for a hearty meal everyone will love!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 5 minutes mins

Cook Time 40 minutes mins

Total Time 45 minutes mins

Servings: 8 servings

Course: Dinner

Cuisine: American

Calories: 410

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 4 tablespoons Butter
• 1/4 cup Flour
• 1/2 teaspoon Kosher Salt
• 1/2 teaspoon Crushed Black Pepper
• 1 cup Turkey Stock
• 1 cup Heavy Cream
• 1 cup Sharp Cheddar, Shredded
• 2 cups Cooked Turkey Breast Meat, Chopped
• 2 cups Cornbread Cubes, Divided
• 1/2 cup Frozen Peas
• 1 cup Chopped Carrots
• 1 cup Chopped Frozen Green Beans
• 1/2 cup Frozen Corn

Equipment

• Frying pan
• Oven
• Chef's Knife
• Whisk
• Mixing Bowl
• Baking Sheet

Method

 

1. Preheat your oven to 350 degrees. This is an important step to ensure the casserole cooks evenly from the start.
2. In a medium-sized saucepan over medium-high heat, melt the butter. Watch it carefully to prevent it from browning too much.
3. Once the butter is melted, whisk in the flour, salt, and crushed black pepper to create a roux. This will help thicken our sauce.
4. Slowly add in the turkey stock, whisking continuously to avoid any lumps. You'll notice it begins to thicken as it heats up.
5. When the mixture starts to thicken, pour in the heavy cream while continuing to whisk. This step is crucial for that creamy texture.
6. Next, add in the sharp cheddar cheese. Stir until melted and fully incorporated into the sauce.
7. In a large bowl, combine the chopped turkey, 1 cup of cornbread cubes, peas, carrots, green beans, and corn. Mix gently to combine all the ingredients.
8. Pour in the cheese sauce and stir until all the ingredients are well coated. This step ensures every bite is as flavorful as possible.
9. Spread the mixture evenly into a 9×13 inch pan. Make sure it’s well distributed for even cooking.
10. Top the casserole with the remaining cornbread cubes. This will create a deliciously crispy topping.
11. Cover the pan with foil and place it in the oven. Bake for 20 minutes to help everything meld together.
12. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes until the top is golden brown and crispy. You’ll know it’s done when the top layer looks irresistible!

Notes

• Prepping Ahead: You can prepare this casserole up to a day in advance. Just cover it tightly and store it in the refrigerator until you're ready to bake.
• Don’t Skip the Roux: Creating a roux is essential for the creamy texture. It helps to thicken the sauce, so take your time with this step.
• Experiment with Ingredients: Feel free to mix in other vegetables you have on hand or even swap the turkey for chicken or beans for a vegetarian version.
• Serving Suggestions: This casserole pairs wonderfully with a fresh salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal.

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