Indulgent Thanksgiving Leftover Casserole Recipe

Introduction

This indulgent Thanksgiving casserole is the perfect way to transform your leftover turkey and sides into a comforting, cheesy dish. Ready in under an hour, it combines savory, sweet, and creamy flavors for a quick holiday makeover that’s sure to satisfy.

Ingredients

• 2 cups cooked turkey, shredded
• 2 cups stuffing
• 1 cup cranberry sauce
• 1 can cream of mushroom soup (or cream of chicken)
• 1 cup sour cream
• 2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or your favorite blend)
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures even cooking while you prepare the casserole.
2. Step 2: In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded turkey, stuffing, and cranberry sauce. Mix well so each bite has a balance of savory and sweet.
3. Step 3: Stir in the cream of mushroom soup and sour cream until everything is fully combined and coated evenly.
4. Step 4: Grease a baking dish, then layer half of the turkey mixture in the dish. Sprinkle half of the shredded cheese over it. Repeat with the remaining mixture and top with the rest of the cheese.
5. Step 5: Bake for 30-35 minutes, until the casserole is bubbly and the cheese topping is golden brown.
6. Step 6: Let the casserole rest for about 10 minutes before serving. This helps it set and makes it easier to serve. Optionally, garnish with fresh herbs for added color and flavor.

Tips & Variations

• Add leftover veggies or mashed potatoes to the mixture for extra texture and flavor.
• Try using cream of chicken soup instead of mushroom for a different taste.
• Use your favorite cheese blend to customize the flavor profile.

Storage

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm the casserole in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, about 15-20 minutes. Avoid microwaving to keep the cheese melting nicely.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the casserole and refrigerate it for a few hours before baking. Just add a little extra baking time if baking straight from the fridge.

Can I freeze the leftover casserole?

It’s best to freeze the casserole before baking. Wrap it well and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before baking as directed.

Indulgent Thanksgiving Leftover Casserole Recipe

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★★★★★

4.9 from 554 reviews

• Author: Simon
• Total Time: 50 minutes
• Yield: 6 servings 1x

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Description

This Indulgent Thanksgiving Casserole is a delightful and quick way to transform your leftover turkey and stuffing into a creamy, cheesy, and flavorful bake. Combining shredded turkey, savory stuffing, tangy cranberry sauce, and a creamy mushroom soup and sour cream mixture, this casserole balances sweet and savory notes perfectly. Topped with melted cheese and baked to golden perfection, it’s a comforting dish perfect for post-holiday meals or anytime you want a hearty leftover makeover.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Main Ingredients

• 2 cups cooked turkey, shredded
• 2 cups stuffing
• 1 cup cranberry sauce
• 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup (or cream of chicken)
• 1 cup sour cream
• 2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or your favorite blend)
• Salt and pepper to taste

Optional Add-ins

• Any leftover vegetables (such as green beans, carrots, or peas)
• Leftover mashed potatoes for extra texture

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Instructions

1. Preheat Your Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures even cooking for the casserole. While it heats up, prepare the rest of your ingredients.
2. Mix the Base: In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded turkey, stuffing, and cranberry sauce. Stir thoroughly to evenly distribute the slightly sweet cranberry sauce with the savory turkey and stuffing.
3. Add the Creamy Elements: Stir in the cream of mushroom soup and sour cream into the mixture until everything is well coated and combined, creating a creamy texture that will bind the casserole.
4. Layer the Casserole: Grease a baking dish lightly. Spread half of the turkey mixture evenly on the bottom of the dish, then sprinkle half of the shredded cheese on top. Repeat with the remaining turkey mixture, and finish by sprinkling the rest of the cheese evenly over the top for a nicely browned crust.
5. Bake to Perfection: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the cheese on top is golden brown and bubbly. The aroma will signal that the casserole is ready.
6. Let It Rest: Remove from the oven and let the casserole sit for about 10 minutes before serving. This resting period helps the casserole set for easier slicing and serving. Optionally, garnish with fresh herbs for added color and flavor.

Notes

• You can customize this casserole by adding leftover vegetables or mashed potatoes to add more texture and flavor.
• Using cream of chicken soup instead of mushroom soup will give a slightly different but equally delicious flavor.
• For a crunchy topping, sprinkle breadcrumbs mixed with melted butter on top before baking.
• Make sure to let the casserole rest after baking to avoid it being too runny or difficult to serve.
• This recipe is perfect for using up any Thanksgiving leftovers in a quick and satisfying way.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 35 minutes
• Category: Casserole
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Keywords: Thanksgiving casserole, leftover turkey recipe, creamy turkey bake, holiday leftovers, cheesy casserole, quick leftover make-over