Table of Contents
Easy Thanksgiving Leftovers Casserole
After the Thanksgiving feast is over, the question of what to do with all the leftovers arises. Why not transform those delicious Thanksgiving dishes into a mouthwatering easy Thanksgiving leftovers casserole recipe that the whole family will love? This casserole is the perfect way to enjoy the flavors of Thanksgiving in a new and exciting dish.
Imagine the aroma of roasted turkey mixed with savory stuffing and creamy mashed potatoes all baked together with a cheesy topping that gets perfectly crispy in the oven. This gluten-free Thanksgiving leftovers casserole is not only a creative way to use up your leftovers but also a healthy Thanksgiving casserole idea that will make you excited for leftovers night.
Whether you’re looking for the best turkey leftover casserole dishes or exploring low carb Thanksgiving casserole recipes, this Thanksgiving leftovers casserole with stuffing is sure to become a family favorite. The best part is that you can customize it to suit your taste preferences, making it a versatile and satisfying dish.
Let’s get started with this easy Thanksgiving leftovers casserole recipe that will elevate your post-Thanksgiving meals and have everyone asking for seconds.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
If you love creamy and comforting dishes, this Thanksgiving leftovers casserole is a dream come true. Here are some reasons why you’ll fall in love with this dish:
1. It’s a fantastic way to repurpose Thanksgiving leftovers and reduce food waste.
2. The combination of flavors and textures creates a mouthwatering experience with every bite.
3. This casserole is a quick and easy solution for busy weeknights when you crave the taste of Thanksgiving.
4. It’s a versatile recipe that allows you to experiment with different ingredients and variations, making it a go-to dish for any occasion.
Ingredients
| Ingredients | Notes |
|---|---|
| Turkey leftovers | Shredded or diced, for that savory turkey flavor. |
| Stuffing | Use your favorite stuffing recipe for that classic Thanksgiving taste. |
| Mashed potatoes | Creamy mashed potatoes act as the perfect base for this casserole. |
| Cheese | Opt for a blend of cheeses for a gooey and delicious topping. |
This easy Thanksgiving leftovers casserole recipe combines these simple ingredients to create a gourmet Thanksgiving turkey casserole that will impress your guests and satisfy your cravings.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F and grease a baking dish with cooking spray.
2. Spread a layer of mashed potatoes at the bottom of the dish, followed by a layer of stuffing.
3. Add a generous amount of shredded turkey on top of the stuffing layer.
4. Sprinkle a generous amount of cheese over the turkey to create a cheesy and gooey topping.
5. Bake the casserole in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
6. Serve hot and enjoy the delicious flavors of Thanksgiving in every bite.
Tips for Success
1. For a crispy topping, broil the casserole for the last 2-3 minutes of baking.
2. Add a splash of chicken broth before baking to keep the casserole moist and flavorful.
3. Experiment with different cheese blends to find your favorite combination.
4. Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or thyme for a pop of color and freshness.
Variations & Substitutions
1. Vegetarian Option: Replace the turkey with roasted vegetables for a vegetarian Thanksgiving leftovers casserole.
2. Spicy Twist: Add chopped jalapeños or red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
3. Low-Carb Version: Substitute mashed cauliflower for the mashed potatoes for a low-carb alternative.
What to Serve With It
This Thanksgiving leftovers casserole pairs perfectly with a side salad dressed with a light vinaigrette. For a complete meal, consider serving it with a glass of chilled white wine or a sparkling cranberry mocktail.
Storage & Reheating
To store any leftover casserole, allow it to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. You can keep it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze it for up to 3 months. When reheating, cover the casserole with foil to prevent the cheese from burning and bake in a 350°F oven until heated through.
Nutrition Facts
This Thanksgiving leftovers casserole is a hearty and satisfying dish that is perfect for a cozy night in. Here are the approximate nutrition values per serving:
- Calories: 350
- Protein: 25g
- Carbs: 30g
- Fat: 15g
- Fiber: 4g
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 800mg
This casserole is high in protein and can be considered a keto-friendly option for those watching their carb intake.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
1. Overbaking the casserole can result in dry leftovers. Keep an eye on the oven to prevent this.
2. Using too much cheese can overpower the other flavors in the dish. Be mindful of the cheese quantity you use.
3. Not seasoning the layers adequately can lead to a bland casserole. Don’t be afraid to season each component generously.
FAQ
1. Can I freeze this Thanksgiving leftovers casserole?
Yes, you can freeze this casserole. Simply cool it completely, wrap it tightly, and store it in the freezer for up to 3 months.
2. Can I use different leftovers in this casserole?
Absolutely! Feel free to customize this casserole with any Thanksgiving leftovers you have on hand.
3. Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the casserole ahead of time and refrigerate it until you’re ready to bake it. Just remember to adjust the baking time accordingly.
Conclusion
In conclusion, this easy Thanksgiving leftovers casserole is a fantastic way to enjoy the flavors of Thanksgiving in a new and exciting dish. It’s a creative and delicious solution to repurpose your holiday leftovers and create a memorable meal that everyone will love. Try this recipe today and savor the comforting and flavorful essence of Thanksgiving all over again.
If you loved this Thanksgiving leftovers casserole, be sure to check out my Creamy Chicken Alfredo recipe for another delightful meal idea. Happy cooking!
Thanksgiving Leftovers Casserole
Transform your Thanksgiving leftovers into a mouthwatering casserole that combines shredded turkey, stuffing, mashed potatoes, and a cheesy topping. This easy and versatile dish is perfect for enjoying the flavors of Thanksgiving in a new and exciting way.
Ingredients
- Turkey leftovers, shredded or diced
- Stuffing
- Mashed potatoes
- Cheese blend
Directions
- Preheat oven to 375°F and grease a baking dish with cooking spray.
- Layer mashed potatoes at the bottom, followed by stuffing.
- Add shredded turkey on top of the stuffing layer.
- Sprinkle cheese over the turkey for a gooey topping.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Serve hot and enjoy!
